​

​

Hello Reader,

Social Listening 101

​

Have you ever wondered what your ideal clients are talking about online? What they’re frustrated with, dreaming about, or desperately searching for? If you ever just want to be a fly on the wall for those conversations, well, social listening is for you.

Today I’m answering five of the most common questions about social listening and how you can use it to grow your business, connect with your audience, and stand out in a crowded marketplace.

How Do I Start Social Listening as a Beginner?

Let’s be real—you don’t need to spend hours combing through every social media post or conversation to start social listening. Here’s an easy, beginner-friendly way to dive in:

• Set up Google Alerts: Create alerts for keywords related to your niche. For example, if you’re a life coach, you might track terms like “imposter syndrome,” “career change tips,” or “work-life balance.” Google will email you every time these terms pop up online.
• Follow hashtags: On platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter, follow hashtags your audience uses. Think #CareerCoach, #WellnessJourney, or #EntrepreneurTips.

These simple steps will give you a steady stream of insights without overwhelming you.

Do I Need Fancy Tools to Make Social Listening Work?

Nope! You don’t have to splurge on expensive tools when you’re just getting started. Free tools like Google Alerts and the built-in search features on social platforms are great for beginners.

However, if you want to step up your game later, here are some advanced options worth exploring:

• Hootsuite: Tracks mentions, hashtags, and keywords in one place.
• BuzzSumo: Helps you find trending topics and popular content in your niche.
• Brand24: Offers in-depth analytics and real-time alerts.
• Sprout Social: Combines social listening, scheduling, and reporting to give you a 360-degree view of your audience. It’s especially great for coaches who want to streamline their social media strategy.

Start small, and only invest in tools once you see the value of social listening in your business.

How Often Should I Do Social Listening?

As with most things on social media, consistency is key here. Aim to dedicate a little time each week to review what’s being said about your niche, competitors, or specific topics.

If you’re strapped for time, set up real-time alerts for key topics or terms so you can stay in the loop without actively searching every day. For example, if someone posts about needing a business coach, you can jump in with advice or a thoughtful comment.

Can This Help Small Coaching Businesses?

100%! Social listening is one of the most effective (and affordable) tools small businesses can use to understand their audience.

Here’s how it helps:

• Spot trends: Notice what’s trending so you can create content or services around it.
• Learn from competitors: Watch what your competitors are doing well—and not so well—to improve your offerings.
• Connect in a real way: Engage with potential clients by addressing their questions or concerns directly in online conversations.

This can mean the difference between blending in and standing out.

How Can I Act on the Insights I Find?

Finding insights is just the first step—taking action is where the magic happens. Here’s how you can use social listening insights effectively:

• Create targeted services: If your audience is mentioning burnout, create a workshop or coaching program to address it.
• Refine your marketing: Use the language your audience uses in their posts to craft messaging that resonates.
• Engage directly: Respond to comments, answer questions, and join conversations to show you’re listening and genuinely care.

Turn what you learn into strategies that solve problems and add value.

Your Social Listening Action Plan

I want you to walk away with a simple plan of what you can do next, so here is what I am thinking.

Start simple with free tools like Google Alerts and hashtag tracking.

Don’t overthink it—just dedicate a little time each week to checking in.

Act on what you learn by creating targeted services and engaging authentically.

Social listening isn’t just about gathering data—it’s about connecting with your audience in ways that truly matter. And trust me, your audience will notice the difference.

Want more insights into everything you need to build your own Signature Style on social media? Join the membership; I got you girl!

Keep Creating,

Jonathan