It’s 2019. As you probably know, it is becoming more and more of a necessity to integrate social media into any successful business model. However, while social media has become such a given, it is important to take a step back and consider exactly why we use social media and how it can help you achieve your business goals.
Here we have created a list of reasons why you should supplement your business with a well developed social media presence, as well as ways to make that presence as impactful as possible.
Build Credibility
A social media presence provides credibility by demonstrating that your business is actively updating information and engaging with its publics. When potential customers are deciding who to work with, a company that actively updates social media content provides the customer with a better idea of what it has to offer.
An active social media presence also provides reassurance to customers, by emphasizing that the company has an active channel of communication. Businesses that are more communicative are simply more appealing to work with.
Credibility can be built on social media by regularly posting content that is relevant to your business. Consistency is key here! Posting on Facebook three times a year doesn’t exactly paint the most credible picture of your business. Try using social media scheduling apps like Hootsuite to upload content on a regular basis if you have trouble remembering to post.
Drive Traffic to your Website
Don’t think of social media as the final destination for your clientele. Instead consider it as a way to guide people to your website. You want your content to be engaging enough that audiences want to know more about what you do as a business.
Make sure that there are links to all business websites on your social media. Most people will not take the time to look up the name of your business, but they may click on a link to your site.
Gain New Clients
Social media has become a big factor for a potential customer deciding which business to work with. Often, potential clients will weigh their options by comparing business’s social media profiles.
This means that you want to showcase your best work and brand image on social media, so that during that decision making process, your business comes out on top.
Social media also provides a very direct channel through which potential clients can contact you with business inquiries. So make sure that you are frequently checking your social media inboxes and engaging with your followers.
Build Your Brand
Social media is THE place to showcase your brand. Once you have a clear brand image, show it to the world through the content you post. Whether this be through pictures, videos, statuses, infographics, etc., this is how audiences figure out what you represent as a business.
So find a key message you want to convey to your audience and stick to it! Get your creative juices flowing and find innovative ways to present your business on social media.
Highlight Important Information
Does your business have an upcoming event or sale? Social media is a great place to inform your audience of business news without having to send out time consuming emails or direct mail.
Highlight information of note on your social media so that your audience knows what’s going on and how they can be a part of it.
Grow Relationships
More than anything, social media is about building relationships with your audiences. Take the time to engage with your followers and other businesses on social media.
As a business, you should view social media as an excellent networking opportunity. So comment on your followers posts, respond to all of your inbox messages, and provide a space for others to have quality discussions about your business. Social media allows you to connect with people you may not have had the opportunity to otherwise.