In 2018, you might think having a social media channel is a given – a hallmark in the success of a company. But there are so many businesses out there still unsure about how to use this forever changing and often confusing means of marketing.
With so many platforms to choose from and so many different ways to use them, we thought we’d break it down and explain our top three reasons why using social media (and using it effectively) will drive you more sales and traffic than ever before.
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Choose the right platform
The key to social media success is knowing where to spend your time and your effort. Let’s talk about the top four channels for example.
Facebook is a great way of connecting with your audience and provides a way for you to present everything you can offer all in one place; deals, website details, opening times, instant messaging. If you are unsure where to start… start with Facebook.
“Facebook is all about information and helping people share it.” – Mark Zuckerberg, Founder, Facebook
Next up – Instagram. Did you know that there are over 95 million photos added to Instagram everyday and, great news if you’re a pizza company – it’s the most Instagrammed food! If you have gorgeous photos and something to share, Instagram is the place to be. Don’t forget about Instagram stories too. They can capture the everyday happenings of your company and, if you have over 10,000 followers, you can benefit from the swipe up feature linking directly to your website.
For a more business-to-business approach, head over to LinkedIn. This growing platform is over 500 million members and can tell you everything you need about potential candidates, your sector and top news, specially curated for you.
Finally, we have Twitter. Once the most popular place to be on the Internet (aside from Facebook), it seems to have been overtaken by it’s younger sibling – Instagram – and can feel a little lost at times. That being said, it’s great for sharing news, updates and information and is one of the best places to interact with your audience. Keep an eye on the trending topics – they’re a great way to have your finger on the pulse of popular news, events and discussions. See something that fits with you? React!
2) Invest, invest, invest
Just like any other area of your business, your social media channels require investment to drive them forward. No one is going to find your page just because you are now there! There are 60 million active business on Facebook and you need to stand out from the crowd.
From spending as little as £5 per day on advertising, you can create highly targeted campaigns which will result in your audience rapidly growing. From brand awareness, event promotions, lead generation, spend a little and you will reap the rewards.
“Social media has now become a ‘pay-to-play’ arena, if you’re not paying, you’re not playing,” Kiara Havenga, Social Media Marketer & Tutor
3) Connect with your audience
Gone are the days of email enquiries. 78% of people who complain to a brand on Twitter expect a response within an hour – can you offer that? Users want information quickly and clearly and instant messaging can provide just the solution. All of the big name social media channels offer instant messaging – a helpful and easy way to connect with users who have issues or questions.
Don’t forget about the comments section too! Connecting with your users in a positive and friendly manner presents a great picture of your brand. Other users will see the comments and be encouraged to Like, check out the website and find out more about you.
“Content is King, but engagement is Queen and she rules the house!” – Mari Smith, Social Media Expert
Social media is a fantastic way to get your brand or your company out into the world. If you’re looking to make the leap, why not get in touch? Email us at hello@www.attention-marketing.co.uk and we’ll put you on the social media map.
References: https://www.brandwatch.com/blog/96-amazing-social-media-statistics-and-facts/
https://www.broadbandsearch.net/blog/social-media-facts-statistics-2019
