Food Retail Social Media Manager Interview: Kristine O’Hare with Baesler’s Market

By: Kelli Windsor, Manager for Member and Digital Communications, Food Marketing Institute

Located in Terre Haute, Indiana, is one of three Baesler’s Markets, an independent operator with 115 years of history. The social media manager overseeing content on Twitter and Facebook for the store is Kristine O’Hare. Kristine has the pleasure of sharing the story of this great store, the fabulous employees and the community they serve.

I first noticed Baesler’s Market’s social media posts during National Family Meals Month, when they shared a Facebook photo of employees raising their oven mitts. From sharing employees trying wheat grass shots to fun photos of in-store promotions on Twitter, Baesler’s Market is a great example of how you can use social media to share the story of your store’s brand and the unique offerings you have no matter your size. 

How did you get started in the food retail industry?

Kristine: I began working in the food retail industry during my junior year of high school. During an internship in college, I developed an interest working in the field of public relations. After completing my internship, I helped my company establish a social media strategy and have continued developing our online presence ever since.

What’s your organization’s social media goal and target audience?

Kristine: Our social media goal is to provide our customers and community with useful information and a medium that they can connect with us beyond their experience in the store.

What’s been your organization’s biggest social media win? How did you help make that happen or continue the momentum?

Kristine: Our biggest social media win has been being able to share the products and services that we offer that set us apart. For example, we use social media to showcase our vegan menu, capitalized on the popularity of shark week with related posts, and have friendly service posts to help inform our customers.

What advice do you have for food retail social media managers?

Kristine: I try to utilize our greatest asset as much as possible, which are our employees.  By including them it keeps them engaged and excited in the process. Above all, my greatest piece of advice is to have fun and be creative!

Do you manage your food retail organization’s social media and want to take part in the series? E-mail Kelli Windsor.