Ah, the hashtag. Never has such a powerful tool so regularly been a punchline. The use of hashtags on social media has made it a target for derision as social media itself becomes ubiquitous in our lives. It is important to keep in mind, though, that despite the jokes, the hashtag remains a powerful tool for use on marketing campaigns.

For the uninitiated, hashtags allow users to categorize content online by placing the "hash" or "pound" sign (#) before a word or phrase. The sign and word or phrase are then searchable on social media platforms, where all posts featuring the hashtag will be displayed. The hashtag is usable on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Google+ and Pinterest, among other.

Though hashtagging has been popular for nearly a decade, many users and businesses still do not know how to use hashtags effectively. Have no fear; below are five quick tips to help your business and campaigns start using hashtags better.

1. Less is more

Nobody wants to #read #content #that #looks #like #this. And if no one is reading and reacting to your content, than you're wasting your time on social media. Overuse of hashtags is the surest way to turn a reader off. In fact, using even more than two hashtags can make your social media look like spam.

If you’re posting about a specific topic that isn’t part of a specific campaign, find out the popular hashtag for that topic. This can help your content noticed by users who do not follow you or like your page. Tools such as hashtagify.me can help you identify popular hashtags.  With hashtags, less is more. Try to use only one per campaign. If you’re posting something not related to a specific campaign, pick a default tag that is unique to you or your business.

2. Pick the right hashtag for your campaign

 Since you're committed to using one hashtag, makes sure it is the right one! This can be where many campaigns get in trouble by overthinking. Keep it simple, be unique and don't be afraid to be obvious. A unique product name is a great choice for a hashtag.

Remember, the primary purpose of the hashtag remains to categorize your content. Pick a hashtag that concisely conveys what the campaign is about. Then, research the current use of the hashtag to ensure your campaign can own the use of that hashtag and there are not risks associated with it.

And remember, shorter hashtags are especially better on a site like Twitter that features character limits.

3. Place the hashtag at the end of your post

 Just as overuse of hashtags harms your content, so does #reading #hashtags in the #middle of a sentence. The natural place for hashtags is at the end of your content. This allows your post to be read undisturbed while still providing the benefits of hashtagging. Twitter has been around for a decade, and the expectation now is for hashtags to be placed at the end of posts. Not doing so will make your post seem out of place, and ultimately, ignored.

4. Stand by your tag

If you’re going to take the time to pick a hashtag that you want to be associated with your campaign, you yourself must be the number one user of that hashtag. Ensure you're using the tag on all related posts, photos and websites.

Consistent use of your hashtag across social media platforms will link your use of those platforms.

5. Monitor your hashtag regularly