There is no denying that social media has become an integral part of society. A recent article by We Are Social reveals that over 60% of the world’s population is active on social media, with overall user numbers expected to surpass 5.8 billion by 2027. And people are not just using social media for entertainment. According to Forbes, 90% of social media users follow at least one brand, while 76% have bought an item after seeing it on social media.
These are compelling statistics, but let’s cut to the chase. I’m sure you are asking, “What’s the point? How will it grow my business?”
As always, we recommended starting with a good social media strategy. Otherwise there is no real point. Without a plan, an good understanding of your target audience and consistency, just posting on social media for the sake of it will not get you the outcome you are looking for.
Here’s a few things to consider when it comes to using social media to grow your brand:
Social media marketing is cost-effective with a wide reach
Social media marketing is a more cost-effective marketing tool than traditional advertising methods such as television, radio and print.
You can produce amazing content that engages your audience for little budget, or even hire someone externally to manage the whole process for you (like us! Get in touch if this interests you!)
With social media marketing, your business can often reach a wider audience than traditional marketing. An audience that’s global. A number of businesses have expanded their reach on an international scale with a good strategy for expanding on social media.
Each social media platform offers its own analytics and insights that your business can use to gather valuable data about your audience’s behaviour, preferences, and interests. You can also use this information to refine your marketing strategies, develop content and potential products that meet your customer needs, and ultimately improve your overall business performance and ROI.
Social media allows you to keep an eye on the market…and your competitor.
According to Forbes, almost 80% of small businesses use social media to engage with current and potential customers. With that in mind, it’s plausible to assume your competitors are regular posters on social media. While this may sound like a negative, we suggest viewing it differently.
You can utilise social media to keep an eye on your competitors’ actions (what they’re posting, when they’re posting, how much engagement they are receiving, etc.) and, from there, decide what strategies you may need to implement into your own marketing. This is a tactic that every successful business employs.
Social media humanises your brand
Consider your preferences when dealing with a business external to your own. What would you rather: an interaction that feels like you are dealing with a computer or a human experience that makes you feel seen and appreciated?
It’s likely a lot of people would choose the latter. Our nature is to seek out the human experiences. And social media has the ability to deliver that to people, to humanise your brand by creating a more relatable and personal connection with your followers.
Sharing behind-the-scenes content such as stories about your employees, out-of-office events, or celebrating a birthday or milestone lets your audience see the real people behind your brand. Responding to comments and messages and maintaining customer engagement will only reinforce that sentiment, while addressing mistakes your business may have made or challenges and successes you have faced on social media shows honesty and transparency. Humanising elements like these can foster a deeper, more trusting connection with your audience. Finally, injecting humour into your posts is a great way to make your content stand out and give your business a friendly, approachable vibe.
These small touches can make a significant difference. If your audience connects with your business on a human / personal level, it’s more likely that they will keep following and engaging with your content. This is turn means they are also more likely to buy from you when they have the need.
The Wrap Up
Remember that building a solid social media ROI takes time and effort. Don’t be discouraged if you do not see immediate results. Stick with it, adapt your strategy as needed, and focus on providing value to your audience.
Do you think your business could benefit from a social media marketing strategy but don’t know where to start? We can help! FORJ has several social media packages that are sure to suit the size of your company, the reach of your audience and the level of marketing your strategy demands. Schedule a call with our strategist, Sharni-Marie, HERE