Social media has taken the world by storm, especially in the business world. It’s become a hub for creativity, a place to find new customers and an essential part of any marketing plan. Customers and audiences have turned to social media to share their lives, connect with friends and family and discover content that interests and entertains them. In turn, many businesses have turned to social media for most, if not all, of their marketing efforts. We often get asked: “Why do I need to be on social media? Will it help grow my business?” The answer is yes. You should be actively partaking in social media engagement - here’s why!
First off, social media is a gateway to new connections and a whole new audience you might not have been able to reach elsewhere. Being active on social media gives you the potential to get discovered in different ways. Whether it be on the Explore page on Instagram, through hashtag or location discovery, or through the For You page on TikTok, social media offers endless opportunities to grow your business and form relationships with potential new customers.
Social media content, when done well, helps businesses humanize their brand. Each platform has unique features that allow you to create content to showcase your brand’s unique personality and the humans behind the brand. Consumers of products and services want to feel like they’re a part of your community. They’re selective about what businesses they support based on not only the quality of the product or service, but whether or not they feel aligned with your purpose, mission and values. Make sure to showcase them in an authentic way. Social media enables you to do just that - bring your audience in by sharing “behind-the-scenes” content, sharing human emotions, telling your brand story in a creative way, or creating time-sensitive, relevant content. Social media lets you share a different side of your brand and be vulnerable which in turn helps people trust you. When they trust you, they’ll become more interested in the product or service you’re offering.
Social media influences people to like, purchase and try new products and brands. If you’re starting a business and want to get the word out about what it is you’re offering, social media is a great place to start. It’s an effective, low-cost way to garner attention - especially when your content is valuable and shareable. Nearly everyone is influenced by social media to buy or use products because someone they trust recommended it, whether it be a friend or their favorite influencer. Encourage your current audience to share the love for your brand on social media or try working with influencers to make a more strategic effort. Having strong advocates for your brand who are passionate about sharing what you have to offer goes a long way online.
Lastly, social media helps you streamline tasks and save time so that you can devote more energy to other areas of your business.. Let’s say you have a section of your website where people can submit questions or concerns - it’s typically something you have to check everyday. Instead, using social media allows your customers to directly message you and connect with you with ease and convenience. You’re able to answer their questions and comments quickly with minimal effort. Additionally, having answers to frequently asked questions about your brand and product easily accessible on social media will minimize the need for them to ask questions.
Growing your business can be pricey and time consuming - we get it! Social media is the perfect way to market what your brand has to offer without the hefty price tag. The hardest part is getting started. If that’s where you’re stuck, hiring a social media manager could be for you. Social media experts (like us!) will help you create a strategy to accomplish your brand’s unique goals that adheres to your marketing budget, create content that drives engagement and work together to craft your brand story online. Send us a message on social media or email kate@kateraedigital.com to start a conversation about a potential partnership. We can’t wait to meet you!