Thursday, March 26, 2015

The Social Vaper


by Bethany Stinar, RTS Vapes Customer Service


There is no doubt that our current society is completely “plugged in” to social media.  With all the snapping, tagging, tweeting, chatting, etc., some may argue that this generation is almost too plugged in.  Others would agree social media can provide more than just a way to share photos of your pet or your latest culinary delight.  Many people use social media to stay current on local and world news or discuss hot topics.  What color is that darn dress anyway? But what role does social media play when it comes to the vaping community?

I believe social media platforms can cater to the needs of both the individual vaper and those who work in the industry.  A wise business owner will certainly market and advertise their company using relevant social platforms as it is an affordable and efficient way to spread the word about their products and services.  Currently, Twitter is one of the most popular social platforms in the vaping industry.  Vape shops and e-cig supply store owners use it to share information about sales, promotions and new products.  Twitter also shares insight into hot topics currently trending throughout the industry.  A simple hash tag can connect you to thousands of others who share similar interests.  Business owners can also use social media to communicate with their customers or check out the competition.

Facebook is a great resource for establishing a social page for businesses.  Customers and employees can communicate and share information in one convenient place.  Facebook also offers an option where customers can review and comment on the products, services and their experience with a certain business.

Instagram is becoming more and more popular among the vaping community.  A business owner can use Instagram to post photos of their store, e-liquid line, or the type of mods they carry.  They can also share pictures of their employees and loyal customers.  Photo sharing creates a personal connection between a business and its customers.

The needs of the individual vaper are going to vary from that of a store owner.  Most vapers are looking for a place they can share their opinion or view opinions of others regarding specific products and services.  The Electronic Cigarette Forum is a great resource for increasing your knowledge about the vaping industry.  One of the most active threads on the forum, and our personal favorite, is titled DIY E-Liquid.  This forum is flooded with information from vapers who are seeking or sharing advice about making your own e-liquid.  This thread is perfect for sharing recipes, vendor information, and opinions about all things e-liquid.  The Electronic Cigarette Forum is also helpful for staying informed on possible FDA regulations and advice on what mod best fits the individual vaper’s preference.  When I’m looking for a certain product I turn to a social media site that shares photos such as Instagram because it can be very helpful when searching for new hardware or accessories.  YouTube is also growing in popularity for vapers because many others post reviews or tutorials about mods and e-liquids they've purchased.  

As a vaper and an employee of the vaping industry I cannot speak highly enough about the role that social media has played in my personal and professional life. Because I manage the social media pages for our company I have seen first-hand the growth that stems from regularly posting and sharing information.  Don’t just be a vaper.  Be a social vaper!  Make your voice heard, your opinion known and share your knowledge with others.


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