There’s no denying that social media is here to stay. Just as businesses 15 years ago had to start setting up websites to keep up with the crowd, you now need to invest in social media if you want to compete. What’s the role of social media in business today, and how can you use it?
You go to your audience, wherever they are
The rise of social media means that you need to be where your customers are. Luckily, your customers are now always online. Thanks to their smartphones, they have access to social media no matter where they are. That’s why it’s vital that you’re on social media too. That way, you can find your customers wherever they are.
Start a conversation
Advertising is now less of a lecture from businesses, and more of a conversation. Businesses create posts on their social media sites, and their customers can then comment on them, asking questions and getting more information about their products. There’s never been such an easy way to start a conversation with your customers.
Changing the way customer service is performed
If a customer needed help before social media, they’d have to physically come back to your place of business, or phone you up. Now though, all they need to do is contact you on social media to get a response. If you’re proactive about checking your feeds, then you can get issues solved quickly, and to the satisfaction of everyone in involved. There’s never been an easier way to deliver great customer service.
Affordability
There’s no easier way for a start up business to start getting the word out than social media. Social media is one of the most affordable ways to advertise what you do to one of the largest audiences in the world. Even if you choose to use adverts, it’s much cheaper than you would think to get the adverts out and into peoples’ social media feeds.
There’s help out there
If you’re not sure where to start with social media, there’s plenty of resources out there for you. Here’s a few examples of sources you could use to get the most out of social media:
– Forbes: This site is one of the most well respected site around, and will help you keep your finger on the pulse of what’s new in technology.
– UK Top Writers: This site helps you find qualified content writers, for when you need an expert to be creating your social media posts.
– Social Media Today: Never be left behind by reading this site, and finding out what’s new in social media.
Social media is a vital part of marketing
Almost 94% of businesses use social media as part of their marketing strategy. It makes sense. There’s such a huge audience online, you’d be mad to ignore them. Customers are more likely now to try and find your Facebook page than they are to go looking for your website. You need to be present on social media, as the competition already is.
Create a loyal community
Look after your followers, and they’ll look after you. There’s no easier way to see how dedicated your fans are to you and your product. Keep up with the posts, offer discounts and special offers, and generally take care of your followers. They’ll stay loyal to you when you need them the most.
As you can see, social media is more important to business than you may think. Take the time to create a social media strategy for your business. You’re going to need it to get ahead.
Rachel Summers is a writer, local newspaper reporter, British journalist, and a freelance creative writer and editor.