![Online Marketplace: how to post engaging content [content idea list]](http://onlineyougrow.com/cdn/shop/articles/cov-marketing-plan-2_52974662-f1ae-43f3-9c8d-bcc9ce92fb1e.png?v=1715865592&width=1100)
Facebook and Instagram are not just for likes and fun—they're powerful tools that the most successful online marketplaces use strategically to attract buyers and sellers.
We understand that managing an online marketplace can be demanding, and the thought of handling social media might feel like an additional burden.
But here's the deal: you don't need to be a marketing expert or spend a fortune to make it work. Just a few minutes a day can bring new users to your platform.
To help you out, we have built a free list of content ideas - also, for a full action plan, please check our strategy pack for online marketplace owners.
Get the content idea list made for online marketplace founders
A lot of online marketplaces manage to post engaging content on social media. Here is a free tool to to get you started.
Content that always work well for an online marketplace
We have analyzed numerous online marketplaces' social media strategies to create our strategy pack for online marketplaces - here is what consistently drives success.
| Content Type | Why It Works to Attract New Users to Your Marketplace |
|---|---|
| High-Quality Product Photos | Visually appealing images of products can entice potential buyers, encouraging them to explore and purchase from the marketplace. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Videos | Showcasing the platform's operations, vendor stories, and product creation processes builds trust and creates a connection with the audience. |
| Customer Testimonials | Positive reviews and testimonials from real users provide social proof and encourage others to shop on the marketplace. |
| Specials and Promotions | Announcing limited-time offers, discounts, and exclusive deals can attract new users looking for bargains. |
| User-Generated Content | Sharing content created by customers (photos, reviews) engages the community and adds authenticity. |
| Local Collaborations | Partnering with local influencers or businesses can introduce the marketplace to a broader, local audience. |
| Event Announcements | Promoting upcoming sales events, webinars, or special online gatherings can attract new visitors interested in unique experiences. |
| Seasonal and Holiday Posts | Highlighting seasonal products or holiday sales can attract customers looking for special shopping options during those times. |
| Interactive Content | Polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions engage followers and create a sense of community, encouraging them to visit the marketplace. |
| Product Tutorials | Sharing tutorials on how to use popular products can intrigue potential buyers and motivate them to make a purchase. |
| Daily Deals Updates | Regularly updating followers with daily deals keeps the marketplace top-of-mind and encourages spontaneous purchases. |
| Vendor Spotlights | Featuring stories about the vendors creates a personal connection and humanizes the platform. |
| Shopping Tips | Sharing tips and tricks for finding the best deals can engage followers who are savvy shoppers. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Highlighting sustainable practices or eco-friendly products appeals to environmentally conscious consumers. |
| Customer Spotlights | Featuring regular customers creates a sense of community and makes others want to be part of that group. |
| Contests and Giveaways | Running contests and giveaways can increase engagement and attract new followers, many of whom may convert into customers. |
Some online marketplaces make 5x more profit than you!
We have studied the strategies of the best online marketplaces in the world. Replicate them now!
How can online marketplace founders make great content on social media?
What to Prioritize
You probably know it already, but high-quality photos and videos of your products are essential.
People shop with their eyes first. Make sure the lighting is good, the products look appealing, and the presentation is inviting.
Also, post regularly to keep your audience engaged. It doesn’t have to be daily, but find a schedule that works for you and stick to it. We have prepared a free social media planner for you.
Of course, respond to comments and messages quickly. People appreciate interaction and it makes them feel valued. Don’t just be another “bland” account.
Show the real side of your marketplace. Behind-the-scenes photos, seller stories, and customer shoutouts can create a personal connection with your audience.
If you want to keep your potential customers excited, highlight any special offers, new arrivals, or seasonal promotions. Make sure your followers know what’s new and exciting.
Finally, share positive reviews and testimonials. Social proof is powerful and can help attract new customers.
What Doesn’t Matter as Much
Overly polished content does not really matter. Your posts don’t need to be perfect. Authenticity can be more engaging than highly produced content.
Also, don’t feel pressured to jump on every social media trend. Focus on what fits your marketplace “image” and what your audience likes.
If you have a low budget to conduct marketing for your marketplace, don’t immediately go for paid Ads. Organic reach can still be effective with good content and engagement. You will find tons of tactics and strategies in our strategy pack for marketplace owners.
How to Do It Fast and Efficient
First, spend a few hours once a week taking photos, recording videos, and drafting posts. This way, you’re not scrambling daily.
Use Scheduling Tools - tools like Buffer or Hootsuite can schedule posts in advance, saving you time.
Repurpose and use the same content across different platforms. A photo on Instagram can be a post on Facebook or a tweet on Twitter.
Encourage customers to share their own photos and tag your marketplace. This is what we call “User-Generated Content”. Reposting these can save you time and build community.
Use apps like Canva for quick and easy graphic design, or Lightroom for photo editing. These tools can make your content look professional with minimal effort.
Low-budget content ideas for online marketplaces on social media
Our team has curated a list of highly specific, budget-friendly content ideas tailored for online marketplaces, complete with practical tips to keep costs low and maximize social media impact.
Consider incorporating some of these ideas into your online marketplace's marketing strategy.
| Content Type | Tips to Make It More Affordable |
|---|---|
| Product Photos | Utilize natural light by photographing products near windows during the day. Enhance images with free apps like Snapseed or VSCO. |
| Customer Reviews | Encourage satisfied customers to leave quick video reviews on their phones. Offer a small discount or coupon as a thank-you. |
| User-Generated Content | Motivate customers to share photos of their purchases by offering a monthly raffle for those who tag your marketplace on Instagram. |
| DIY Product Tutorials | Film short, simple tutorials on how to use your products using a smartphone and a basic tripod. Edit with free software like iMovie or OpenShot. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Stories | Use Instagram Stories or Facebook Live to give a real-time look at your daily operations or introduce the team during slower periods. |
| Daily Deal Posts | Create simple, eye-catching graphics for daily deals using free tools like Canva. Include a brief description and an appealing photo. |
| Vendor Spotlights | Feature vendors with a casual photo and fun facts about them. Use your smartphone and a natural setting in their workspace. |
| Simple Polls and Questions | Engage followers with free Instagram or Facebook polls about their favorite products or suggestions for new items. |
| Local Event Promotions | Collaborate with local events by offering a small discount or coupon. Cross-promote each other's content to reach a broader audience. |
| Community Involvement Posts | Share photos and short stories about your participation in local charity events or partnerships with community organizations. |
| Customer Spotlights | Highlight loyal customers with their favorite products. Take a quick photo and share a short story about their experience with your marketplace. |
| Product Display Photos | Create attractive product displays using inexpensive items like tablecloths, props, and backdrops from dollar stores. |
| Sustainability Tips | Share eco-friendly practices such as using sustainable packaging or sourcing local products. Create simple infographics with free tools like Canva. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Prep | Record short clips of product preparation or packaging. Compile them into a quick video using free tools. |
| Simple Contests and Giveaways | Run social media contests where participants like, share, or tag friends to win a free product. Use cost-effective prizes like a discount code or a small item. |
| Seasonal Product Posts | Highlight seasonal products using natural light and your smartphone camera. Share the story behind the product to add interest. |
Copy the tactics of the best online marketplaces in the world!
There are online marketplaces that make way more money than you do. We have studied their tactics. Get them now!
Exceptionally creative and innovative content ideas specifically for online marketplaces
Investing in high-quality social media content for your online marketplace can be a game-changer. Many competitors might overlook this, giving you a golden opportunity to stand out, capture attention, and build a loyal customer base.
| Content Type | Why It Could Bring a LOT of Customers |
|---|---|
| Live Product Demos | Hosting live or recorded product demonstrations can showcase the features and benefits of your products, creating trust and attracting a global audience. |
| Interactive 360° Store Tours | Offering virtual 360° tours of your online store or warehouse can provide a unique behind-the-scenes experience and entice people to explore your offerings. |
| Limited Edition Products | Creating buzz with limited edition or seasonal products available for a short time can generate excitement and urgency, attracting new and repeat customers. |
| Exclusive Buyer Experiences | Offering exclusive experiences, such as virtual meet-and-greets with product creators, can create memorable interactions and word-of-mouth. |
| AR Product Previews | Implementing augmented reality (AR) technology where customers can see a 3D representation of products can enhance the shopping experience and attract tech-savvy customers. |
| Themed Sales Events | Hosting themed sales events, such as a holiday sale or a back-to-school event, can provide a unique and immersive shopping experience, attracting groups and special occasions. |
| Product Challenge Contests | Organizing product challenge contests (e.g., best DIY project using your products) can create viral moments, attracting competitive shoppers and spectators. |
| Collaborative Pop-Up Shops | Partnering with other brands or influencers to host pop-up shops can introduce your marketplace to new audiences and create a buzz in the community. |
| Story-Driven Social Media Posts | Sharing in-depth stories about the origins of your products, the artisans you source from, or the personal journey of your founders can create an emotional connection with customers. |
| Interactive Product Selection | Allowing customers to vote on new product lines or features via social media polls can make them feel involved and eager to try the creations they helped design. |
| Eco-Friendly Initiatives | Launching and promoting eco-friendly initiatives, such as sustainable packaging or carbon-neutral shipping, can attract environmentally conscious consumers and media attention. |
| Mobile Pop-Up Shops | Operating a mobile pop-up shop in different locations or at local events can expand your reach and attract new customers who may visit your online store later. |
| Subscription Box Service | Offering a subscription box service where customers receive monthly curated products can create a loyal customer base and provide a steady revenue stream. |
| Immersive Product Workshops | Hosting workshops where customers can learn how to use your products effectively can attract enthusiasts and create a sense of exclusivity. |
| Flash Sale Events | Organizing flash sale events with limited-time offers can create viral content and attract shoppers looking for unique deals. |
Content that never works well for online marketplaces on social media
Don't waste your time and resources on these strategies. We've seen many online marketplace owners make these mistakes, and they won't help you stand out from the competition or attract new customers to your platform.
| Content Type | Why It Never Works for Online Marketplaces | Do This Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Generic Stock Photos | They lack authenticity and can make your marketplace appear unoriginal or untrustworthy. | Use real photos of your products, sellers, and team to create a genuine connection with your audience. |
| Overly Promotional Posts | Constantly pushing promotions can feel spammy and turn off followers. | Mix in engaging content like behind-the-scenes stories, customer testimonials, and interactive posts to keep your audience interested. |
| Unrelated Content | Posting content that has nothing to do with your marketplace confuses followers and dilutes your brand. | Keep your content focused on your products, sellers, events, and related topics to maintain relevance and interest. |
| Low-Quality Videos | Poorly shot or edited videos can reflect badly on your marketplace's quality and professionalism. | Invest in basic video equipment or hire a local videographer to produce high-quality videos that showcase your marketplace positively. |
| Political or Controversial Posts | These can alienate parts of your audience and lead to negative backlash. | Stick to neutral, positive content that focuses on your products, community, and your marketplace's unique offerings. |
| Too Many Hashtags | Overusing hashtags can look desperate and reduce engagement by making posts look cluttered. | Use a few relevant, targeted hashtags to increase visibility without overwhelming your audience. |
| Automated Replies and Messages | They can come off as impersonal and frustrate customers looking for genuine interaction. | Respond personally to comments and messages to show that you care about your customers and value their feedback. |
| Overly Staged Photos | Photos that look too perfect can seem inauthentic and less relatable. | Use natural lighting and casual settings to make your photos feel more genuine and inviting. |
| Constant Self-Promotion | Only talking about your marketplace can bore followers and reduce engagement. | Share user-generated content, collaborate with local businesses, and highlight community involvement to diversify your content. |
| Negative or Defensive Responses | Responding poorly to criticism can damage your reputation and discourage potential customers. | Address negative feedback calmly and constructively, showing that you are willing to improve and value customer input. |
| Ignoring Social Media Trends | Being out of touch with current trends can make your marketplace seem outdated and unappealing. | Stay updated with social media trends and incorporate them creatively into your content strategy to keep your audience engaged and excited. |
| Excessive Posting | Posting too frequently can overwhelm your followers and lead to unfollows. | Maintain a consistent but moderate posting schedule, ensuring each post adds value and keeps your audience looking forward to your updates. |
| Complex or Confusing Promotions | Promotions that are hard to understand can frustrate customers and deter participation. | Offer simple, clear, and straightforward promotions that are easy for customers to grasp and engage with. |
| Ignoring Comments and Messages | Not engaging with your audience can make them feel undervalued and reduce their loyalty. | Regularly respond to comments and messages to build a strong, interactive community around your marketplace. |
Make your online marketplace more profitable
We have studied the strategies of the best online marketplaces in the world. All their tactics are explained in our pack!
Why social media can be a big pay-off for your online marketplace
We understand that as an online marketplace owner, you might feel hesitant about diving into social media marketing.
The world of social media can seem foreign and filled with confusing jargon. You might believe that it's more suited for big corporations rather than small businesses like yours.
The day-to-day demands of running an online marketplace are already overwhelming, leaving little time for additional tasks like social media.
It's common to think that social media marketing is an expensive endeavor, one that your tight profit margins can't support. Plus, the sheer number of social media platforms can lead to indecision and skepticism, especially if previous efforts haven't yielded the results you hoped for.
That's why we've created a "marketing pack" specifically tailored for online marketplace owners like you.
Our pack addresses all the issues you might face, offering simple, cost-effective strategies that don't require a marketing expert or a big budget for your online marketplace. These documents are straightforward and easy to understand, cutting through the jargon and focusing on what really works for small online marketplaces on social media.
We provide clear, actionable steps for creating engaging posts, building a loyal following, and boosting your marketplace's visibility online.
With our marketing pack, you can invest in your marketplace's growth without feeling overwhelmed or uncertain.
Your online marketplace could make more money!
Most online marketplace founders don't know how to grow their business. Let us teach you the right strategies.
