It’s a new year – make a resolution to get serious about social media. If your small business is still not paying attention to this important medium, now is the time to get involved. You may ask yourself, “does my business need to use it?” The answer is yes. You need social media in order to stay competitive and connect with new and existing customers.
Individuals in the United States spend almost 25% of their time online on social networks like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The people you are looking to do business with (your target market) are already using social media. If you are interested in reaching them, it’s necessary for your business to be where they are. Being active on social media increases the probability of your brand and messaging reaching a larger percentage of your target customer.
It’s vital you don’t get caught in the mindset that because you aren’t using social media, your competitors probably aren’t either. Do some research and you will most likely find your main competition is indeed utilizing these important online channels. In an ever-changing business landscape, you don’t want to find yourself lagging behind. When investigating your competitors, if you find your competition hasn’t yet embraced a social strategy, view this as an opportunity to leapfrog them before they realize they too need to start taking social seriously.
The majority of marketing approaches are very one-sided. A business broadcasts its message, and a person receives and analyzes it. This is a stark contrast to social media, which gives you the ability to communicate back with the customer and have real engagement. Building a fan base and following on social media lets your customers view you as more than just a business. Your clientele will feel as if they have a relationship with you, which will instill a feeling of trust and assurance. No matter what your business is, it’s a fact customers do business with those they trust and feel connected to.
Don’t get caught in the mindset that social media is only for the Fortune 500 companies or large national brands. As a business owner, you have the power to interact and listen to what your customers are saying about you online. When managed properly, social media can be a vital marketing channel. Social media isn’t a fad, and certainly isn’t going anywhere. Make 2016 the year you take control of your business’s online presence and visibility.
