The days of calling “#, the pound key” is slowly coming to an end.

Since the creation of Twitter, the #hashtag has been be an easier method for users to quickly tag a word or phrase in their tweet; Twitter users were then able to search specific or global trends via #hashtags.  Once Facebook came into the picture, hyper-linking words or phrases by using a #hashtag became a necessity for every post—occasional #internet #users even took it to the #extreme by #hashtagging close to #every single #word in their #posts; while others protested the use.

Which makes one wonder, is there a proper way to #hashtag?

Twitter:

Self-Expression, Human Connection, and Content Discovery are the three major motivators for users and their choice in what to #hashtag. The key for most people is to gain a social response, but for a brand perspective the rules are completely different…

• 1. Don’t force a #hashtag, let it be part of your content.
• 2. Have a #hashtag relate to the value of your brand—don’t #shoes unless you’re a shoe company.
• 3. Connect and chat with users interacting with your brand, retweet their #hashtag if need be.

Facebook:

Facebook is a bit different, especially when it comes to user generated content. #Hashtags that are too long or complicated will in fact hurt the volume of content, thus hurting your campaign….

• 1. Your #hashtag should be unique but also easy to remember and use.
• 2. Consistency is key. Don’t change your #hashtag—ever.
• 3. Consider having your #hashtag be a call to action, instead of a method of viewership.

Remember: #Hashtagging can be a good thing, if done right.  Feel free to watch and rate us on our #hashtag usage, while you’re there, ‘like us’ for more related articles about the web.