Moving Away from the Metrics – Letting the Content Matter Instead of the Numbers on Social Media

Published June 5, 2025
Making Content Matter Instead of Metrics on Social Media

Instagram released a feature that allows users to hide the view counts on their social media content like reels and posts, meaning no one else can see how many times your video has been watched. For some, this might seem like a small update. But for marketers and businesses, this change opens the door to a bigger conversation when creating and posting content: Does hiding your view counts help or hurt your brand?

At True Fit Marketing, we’re all about helping businesses make smart, authentic, and strategic decisions online. So let’s break it down as to why a business might choose to hide their view counts, and what are the potential upsides and downsides?

Why Would a Business Want to Hide Reels View Counts?

1. To Control Brand Perception

Sometimes, great content that had a lot of time spent making it doesn’t get the traction it deserves thanks to unpredictable algorithms or timing. Hiding view counts can keep your audience focused on your message, rather than distracted by a number that doesn’t tell the whole story. 

2. To Minimize Pressure and Comparison

Smaller businesses or newer accounts often feel discouraged when their views don’t measure up to bigger brands. You have to start somewhere, but in the social media world, sometimes that somewhere needs to grow faster than it is actually growing. Removing that visible comparison can create a more level playing field and encourage growth without the intimidation factor.

3. To Test and Experiment Freely

When view counts are hidden, there’s less fear around trying new content styles, messaging, or formats. You’re more likely to take creative risks without worrying that low views will reflect poorly on your brand because no one except for your business will see the number! You never know what will happen when you just let the creative juices flow freely!

The Pros of Hiding View Counts

  • Shifts focus to quality content and engagement, rather than just numbers.
  • Reduces social proof pressure, especially for smaller or growing brands.
  • Encourages experimentation in tone, visuals, target audience, and storytelling.
  • Minimizes judgment from audiences based on perceived performance.

The Cons of Hiding View Counts

  • Reduces transparency – some audiences like to see the “social proof” that others are watching or engaging. If the social proof is eliminated, they can make their own decisions of whether to like or not.
  • Can limit credibility if you’re using views to showcase popularity or ROI to potential clients or partners. This is also a great way to have the conversation that views don’t always tell the whole story.
  • May seem like you’re hiding poor performance, even if that’s not the case. Open and transparent conversations should still be happening between marketing agencies and clients to make sure agreed upon goals are still being met.

The Bottom Line

Like many things in marketing, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If your reels are still gaining traction or you’re experimenting with new content, hiding views might give you the breathing room to grow without the pressure. On the other hand, if your reels consistently perform well, those numbers could work in your favor by building credibility and trust.

Our advice? Test it. Try hiding view counts on a few posts and compare how your audience responds, not just in views, but in comments, shares, saves, and overall engagement. Remember that likes is only one piece of the puzzle. Continuing to have genuine interactions and engagement with your followers will help immensely, no matter how many likes your post has!

Want help deciding what’s best for your business? We’re here to help you develop a strategy that fits your brand, audience, and goals. Let’s talk Reels, content strategy, and how to make every post count, even if the count is hidden.

Why Being Present—Not Just Visible—In Social Media Community Groups Can Be a Serious Power Move for Your Business

Published May 28, 2025

As a marketing team always on the lookout for the latest and greatest, it is easy to focus on the flashy stuff with tangible results — ads, reels, videos, posts, etc. There is something to be said about being active in community networks on social media.

We’re talking about local Facebook groups, LinkedIn communities, Reddit threads, and other local forums where real people connect with local business owners. This is a space where real conversations can happen, where questions are asked and solutions are provided. If you’re a business owner, being active in these spaces can do more for your brand than you might think.

Here’s why being present, not just visible, in community groups can be a serious power move for your business.

Trust is Built in Social Media Conversations, Not Campaigns

People are tired of being sold to. Commercials are on repeat everywhere. We see the same ads on our newsfeeds constantly. People are craving connection, and when that can’t happen in person, an active social group might be a good option.

The first thing to remember when being active as a business owner in a group is that anyone can see what you write. Our best advice is to steer clear of conversations that don’t have anything to do with your business. Avoid personal conversation and conflict. Instead, offer honest input, helpful advice, or encouragement on posts that relate to your business.

Position yourself as a trusted local resource offering friendly help or advice, not just someone trying to make a sale. Conversation leads to name recognition, thus leading to future business opportunities. 

It’s Market Research… Without the Price Tag

“My neighbor’s lawn looks nice and green but mine is not. Help!”

“I have wasps flying around my house and am finding some inside it too. What can I do to mediate the problem?”

“I have family members coming into town for the weekend and want to take them to a nice, local restaurant that has something for everyone. Where should we go?”

Do these statements sound familiar to you if you are a part of local groups? When fellow followers reply to these questions, you really get to know what people think. Each example could be a great segway into a conversation with someone if your business specializes in a solution for them.

Landscaper reply – “Sorry to hear your lawn isn’t looking great yet this year. It still might be early in the season though. Give that grass some time to grow and allow the Earth to do it’s thing before putting chemicals into the ground.” 

Pest Control Business reply – “Those wasps can be scary, especially if you have kids running around during this awesome weather! Do you know where the wasps are hanging out? Can you see a nest?”

Local Restaurant Owner reply – “Isn’t it awesome that we have so many great restaurants in town to choose from? I personally love taking out of town guests to XYZ, or ZYX.”

By paying attention and chiming in on these conversations, you’re gathering first-hand, real-time feedback that you can use to improve your messaging, your offerings, even your customer experience. Don’t speak initially from a business perspective. Speak from a neighbor talking to a neighbor offering FREE advice. Yes, free.

It Opens the Door to Meaningful Collaboration

Other business owners hang out in these spaces too and will see what you are saying. Whether they are competitors or just fellow business owners, you never know what will happen!

The restaurant owner reply above is a great example of a competitor giving a recommendation to another restaurant in town. Why wouldn’t a restaurant owner just say, “Come to my restaurant,” but instead is suggesting somewhere else?

The more you’re seen supporting others, the more support that can also come your way. Restaurant owners go out to eat at other restaurants. They enjoy the experience at other places, so it makes sense when Local Restaurant A says we love going to Local Restaurant B. In return, when Local Restaurant B owner wants to go somewhere, they will think of Restaurant A since they sent them some business! 

Partnerships, joint ventures, event invites, and referral relationships all grow from mutual visibility and engagement.

Referrals Happen Where Relationships Live

The more value you add to a community, the more others will start to recommend you. Think of the businesses in your community that support youth sports. The team parents are more likely to suggest one of their team sponsors over someone they don’t have a relationship with because they help out locally. 

If you’re active and helpful with a group, organization, team, guess what? You’re getting tagged so others can support you in return. That’s powerful and valuable because organic word-of-mouth marketing is truly something you can’t buy.

Why being present not just visible in social media community groups can be a serious power move for your business

Position Yourself as an Expert

As a business owner, it can be hard to turn off the sales pitch. But when you offer advice as the expert, without the sales pitch, you can become the natural go-to in the community. People notice these things. Your name will stick and when they need a product or service like yours, you’re top of mind.

That kind of authority can’t be faked—it has to be earned. No commercial or reel can portray authentic knowledge without the call to action. Community involvement helps you share your knowledge and earn the respect without the call to action.

The Bottom Line

There are many different ways to get your business name into the community. Local community groups on social media is just one way that you can position yourself as the expert. It can be time consuming, repetitive and can often times feel like you are just giving away advice for free, but that is the point!

We believe that no business grows in isolation. The brands that win long-term are the ones who build relationships, not just followers. Take a look at who sponsors the local youth baseball team, who buys pizza for the lady’s group in town, or sponsors the summer concert series that everyone likes to attend. Community networking is a strategy and is one of the most authentic, cost-effective ways to grow your business in today’s digital age.

If you’re not sure how to show up in your local or industry communities, we can help guide your strategy. Reach out to learn how to make your presence count.

20 Years of YouTube: Changing the Way Video is Consumed

Published May 12, 2025
20 Years of YouTube with hand holding up a laptop

Twenty years ago, wait…research that number again. Yep, it has been 20 years since YouTube began as a simple video-sharing site with this video, and now it stands as a global powerhouse that has transformed how we consume content, tell stories, and market ideas. Does it make us all feel old that YouTube is 20? Of course! 2005 doesn’t seem that long ago, but from what it was to what it has became and will still become, YouTube has revolutionized what it means to be a digital video creator—and from a marketing agency’s perspective like True Fit Marketing, it’s one of the most influential tools of the digital age.

What Was Before YouTube?

Before YouTube, video production and distribution were dominated by TV networks, film studios, and major media corporations. Sure there were people out on the streets with their own cameras recording things, but the world typically didn’t get to watch those (except, say, The Blair Witch Project…). Viewers mainly watched videos on their own television or at a movie theater. Now, anyone with a camera (or a phone!), an internet connection, and a story to tell can become a content creator and post their videos on YouTube. With the potential to reach millions of people all over the world, musicians, comedians, educators, beauty gurus, gamers, and everyday people suddenly had access to a global stage. And audiences responded, big time!

Merging with Marketing

For marketing professionals, YouTube became a platform to share brands and their products and services. Brands began to recognize that they no longer needed million-dollar ad budgets to make a commercial, unless it is for the big game (you know what we are talking about). Brands could reach their customers (or potential customers) literally right in their own hands! And when people liked what they saw and shared it, even more people could see it! Suddenly, collaborations started to happen and now a trusted YouTuber is now partnering with a well known brand reaching both of their loyal followings. Marketing genius has been born!

20 Years of YouTube

We See What You Are Watching

YouTube is the home for DIY, education, and see it for yourself content. The platform’s search engine allows for it to be a research tool and an entertainment hub all in one. But remember, YouTube knows what you are watching! So then in turn, marketers can see what their audience is watching, searching, and responding to. Analytics, comments, and real-time feedback give marketers more insight than ever before. The platform’s ad targeting made it easy to reach exact demographics with precision. 

The Bottom Line

What more can come from YouTube? In the last two decades, YouTube has redefined the idea of sharing video content and brand storytelling. Long-form videos, shorts, behind-the-scenes footage, live streams and much more allow brands and everyday people to engage with audiences in dynamic, interactive ways. And it’s not just about promoting products—it’s about building brand loyalty through transparency, value, and consistent content.

As we celebrate YouTube’s 20th anniversary, we’re reminded that this platform didn’t just give individuals a voice—it gave marketers a new playbook. We learned that authenticity beats polish, communities matter more than clicks, and that anyone—yes, anyone—can go viral with the right message at the right moment.

Here’s to 20 years of creativity, connection, and content—and to all the everyday creators who turned YouTube into the world’s biggest stage.

The 6 Steps to Creating a Website from Scratch When Working with a Marketing Agency

Published March 24, 2025
A digital graphic with the title "6 Steps to Creating a Website" in bold white text on a dark blue background. Below, a yellow banner contains the subtitle "From Scratch When Working with a Marketing Agency." To the right, an illustration features people interacting with oversized website elements, including charts, video players, and text boxes, symbolizing web development. The "True Fit Marketing" logo appears at the bottom.

Our team at True Fit Marketing takes pride in creating a website from scratch. It is an exciting journey, one that combines creativity, strategy, teamwork, and many levels of expertise. As with any marketing agency, we want to deliver a website that not only looks, great but is also functional. A website serves as a powerful tool to meet business goals and is a roadmap to drive business. However, building a website isn’t a one-sided process. It’s a collaboration between our team and the client to ensure that the final product truly represents a vision and brand. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to create a website from start to finish.

Step 1: Discovery and Planning

The foundation of any successful website is a solid plan. This phase begins with a discovery meeting where we dive into the client’s business: what are the goals, who is the target audience, what does the brand identity look like, and the specific functionalities wanted on the website. During this stage, we’ll ask questions like:

  • What is the primary purpose of the website? (e.g., lead generation, e-commerce, informational)
  • What websites does the client like and not like? It doesn’t have to be competitors, but just any website in general.
  • What content, images, and videos are ready, and what will need to be created?

From there, we create a roadmap, including a timeline, who the client will work with on the team, and deliverables, to ensure everyone is aligned and ready to go.

Step 2: Wireframing and Design

Once our team fully understands the client’s website goals, we will move into the design phase. This starts with wireframing where we outline the structure of the website. Think of it as a blueprint. Wireframes show where key elements like navigation, calls-to-action, and content will go. This will require the client to do some homework to make sure everything is where it needs to go and they are happy with the number of pages we have mapped out.

After the wireframes are approved, our experts move to the design phase and showcase the look and feel of the site through proper branding, color schemes, and visual styles. We’ll share these designs with the client for feedback and revisions, ensuring they match the original vision.

Create a website from scratch with the help of a marketing agency

Step 3: Content Collection and Creation

A website needs words. Those words are part of the client’s content and the content is what is searchable on the Internet. Unless the client already has a website and the content is already created, approved and in proper formatting for the website, this is likely where we will need most of the input. Content will vary depending on what the website is for, but some items that are typically needed are photos, icons, videos, product descriptions, blog posts, about section(s) or company bios, contact information, services offered and so much more. If the content already exists, we can work with the client to refine them for the web. If content creation is needed, our team can help write copy, take photos, or produce videos. The content is only as good as what the client creates or helps to create. The client is the expert and is responsible for educating our team on what they want their website visitors to know and see. 

Step 4: Development and Backend Setup

With the design and content in hand, our developers begin the sometimes lengthy process of building the site. This is where the magic happens behind the scenes and what clients don’t get to see in action. We can set up:

  • Responsive Design: Ensuring the website looks great on any device including desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
  • CMS Integration: Setting up a content management system like WordPress or Shopify.
  • Functionality: Implementing features like contact forms, e-commerce capabilities, or membership portals.
  • SEO Foundations: Adding metadata, alt text, and ensuring the site is optimized for search engines.

During this phase, we also test the site’s performance, speed, and functionality to ensure everything works seamlessly.

Step 5: Testing and Revisions

Another step that happens before the client gets to see the website is a rigorous testing regime by our team. Before launching, we share the website with other members of our team to comb through it to test for:

  • Broken links, spelling, grammar, and other content edits.
  • Ensuring forms and interactive features work properly.
  • Testing on multiple devices and browsers to guarantee compatibility.
  • Photo and video playback and quality.

We’ll present the site to the client for review and make any necessary revisions. This is the client’s opportunity to fine-tune the details and ensure the site meets all expectations.

Step 6: Launch and Post-Launch Support

Once everything is approved, it’s time to go live! We handle the technical aspects of the launch, such as connecting the domain and hosting. After launch, we continue to monitor the site and provide support as needed. Whether it’s troubleshooting or updates, we’re here to help.

The Bottom Line

Creating a website is a team effort. While we handle the technical, design, and strategic aspects, we can not stress enough how critical the client’s input is. The client knows their business best, and their involvement ensures the final product aligns with their goals and vision. By working together, we create a website that not only meets but exceeds all expectations.

Building a website from scratch takes a lot of time, effort, and collaboration. But when it is done right, it’s a powerful investment in a business’s future. 

Why Your Business Needs a Website Redesign Every 3-5 Years

Published February 25, 2025
An illustration of a laptop displaying a modern website design, surrounded by icons representing web development, SEO, and user experience. The title "Why Your Business Needs a Website Redesign Every 3-5 Years" is prominently displayed. The background includes abstract digital elements symbolizing technology and innovation.

Your website is the digital storefront of your business, and just like a physical store, it needs regular updates to remain appealing, functional, and competitive. Technology evolves, user expectations change and businesses grow, making it essential to revisit and refresh your website every three to five years. This blog explores why a website redesign is a wise investment, the changes websites undergo over time, and the critical role of maintenance in keeping your online presence strong.

Keeping Up with Technological Advances

The digital landscape is constantly evolving, with new tools, frameworks, and best practices emerging every year. A website built five years ago may lack the responsiveness, speed, or functionality expected by today’s users.  

  • Mobile Optimization: In recent years, mobile usage has overtaken desktop, making mobile-friendly designs essential. A site that isn’t responsive will frustrate users and hurt your SEO rankings.  
  • Security Enhancements: Cyber threats have grown exponentially, and outdated websites are more vulnerable to attacks. Regular redesigns ensure your website benefits from the latest security features.  
  • Page Speed: New technologies optimize load times, which is critical for user experience and search engine rankings. 

Adapting to Changing User Expectations

Trends in design and functionality change rapidly. What looked modern and professional a few years ago might now appear outdated, affecting how your brand is perceived.  

  • Improved User Experience (UX): Websites today prioritize intuitive navigation, clean layouts, and fast access to information. Redesigning ensures your site aligns with modern usability standards.  
  • Integration with Modern Tools: Customers expect integrated tools like chatbots or advanced search functionality. A redesign can help implement these features seamlessly.  

Reflecting Business Growth and Goals  

Your business doesn’t stay static, and neither should your website. As your company grows or pivots, your website must reflect your latest offerings, values, and branding.  

  • Rebranding Efforts: Whether you’ve updated your logo, colors, or messaging, your website should consistently mirror your brand.  
  • New Services or Products: If your offerings have expanded, your website needs to showcase them effectively.  
  • Audience Targeting: Your target audience may have shifted, requiring new strategies to attract and engage visitors.  

Maintenance Challenges with Aging Websites

Older websites are harder to maintain, leading to increased costs and headaches.  

  • Compatibility Issues: Software updates and browser changes can make outdated websites buggy or even non-functional.  
  • Lack of Support: Platforms, plugins, or themes used in your original build may no longer be supported, leaving your site vulnerable or inefficient.  
  • SEO Performance Declines: Search engine algorithms prioritize modern, fast, and secure websites. If yours is outdated, your rankings will suffer.  

The ROI of Investing in a Functional Website  

A well-designed website is more than a business expense—it’s an investment that delivers measurable returns.  

  • Attracting More Visitors: A visually appealing, fast, and user-friendly website draws in more traffic and keeps users engaged longer.  
  • Boosting Conversions: Updated designs with clear calls-to-action (CTAs) and streamlined purchase paths lead to higher conversion rates.  
  • Enhancing Credibility: An outdated website can make even the best business seem unreliable. A fresh, modern site builds trust with your audience.  
  • Streamlining Operations: Modern websites can automate processes like appointment booking, form submissions, or customer inquiries, saving you time and resources.  

How to Approach a Website Redesign  

Planning your redesign doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Follow these steps to ensure success:  

  • Audit Your Current Site: Identify what works, what doesn’t, and what’s missing.  
  • Understand Your Audience: Redesign with your target users in mind, prioritizing their needs and preferences.  
  • Set Clear Goals: Define what you want your website to achieve, whether it’s generating leads, showcasing products, or building brand awareness.  
  • Partner with Experts: A professional web designer or agency can ensure your site is built to meet current standards and future-proofed for years to come.  

The Bottom Line

Your website is one of your most powerful marketing tools, but to remain effective, it needs to evolve alongside your business and the ever-changing digital world. By investing in a website redesign every three to five years, you ensure your online presence is not only relevant but also optimized to deliver results.  

Don’t wait until your website is an obstacle to growth. Start planning your redesign today and see how a modern, functional website can elevate your business to new heights.  

Need help with your redesign? Whether you’re looking for a complete overhaul or a fresh new look, our team is here to help. Let’s bring your vision to life—contact us today!