Hay There, small business owners! We still hear the question on a regular basis, “is social media marketing something my business needs to use?” In today’s blog, we are sharing some insight on why social media works for both the individuals and for the businesses. Another important point we encourage you to consider is how your competitors are using social media. Take a look!

Every Tuesday, DSW (aka Designer Shoe Warehouse) gives away 25 free pairs of shoes to their loyal Facebook followers. The requirements for this “Free Shoesday” giveaway? Entrants must “like” the DSW Facebook page, be a DSW Rewards member (which is free to join), and be one of the first 25 people to email the correct answer to a random question posed on the DSW Facebook page at noon. That’s it.

Large businesses are getting more people interested in their products and services buy reaching out on social media — and small businesses can shine, too!!

Regardless of the size of business you have, if you’re not actively participating in social media, then you’re not hanging out with your customers as much as you can. You’re missing out on opportunities to connect with your current customers and draw in new ones. Because your customers want to hang out with you. It’s the cool — and smart — thing to do.

Make your small business the popular one on the social media block!

WHY SOCIAL MEDIA WORKS (FOR THE INDIVIDUAL)

It’s easy — and instant. People check up on their friends and happen to see that you’re unveiling a new product, having a sale or sharing a photo. Or maybe you’re having some sort of contest or posing an interesting question. Which brings us to the next point:

It’s fun. The thrill of hanging out where everyone has the same chance to engage and provide feedback is enjoyable, and being the first to see a special news is exciting. And it keeps the customer around. Why? Because:

It’s personal. To be interactive directly with a brand makes customers feel like they matter, that their opinion — and their dollar — counts. It builds a bond.

WHY SOCIAL MEDIA WORKS (FOR THE BUSINESS)

It’s direct. Really, how much more direct marketing can you get — to have potential customers voluntarily sign up to receive all the info you want to give them? Yes, please!

It keeps customers participating. Current and potential customers “like” the page for an initial contest or promo and then keep their eye out for your company’s updates of new offerings, sales and anything else your company posts about. When you keep them actively seeking you out, that means they’re thinking of you. Which means:

It gets customers talking — about you. They’re talking about your company to their family and friends, who will likely go follow your social media profiles. And when customers talk about you, they usually buy from you, too.

THE BOTTOM LINE

If you’re not promoting your business via social media, then you’re not getting as much exposure as you can. When your company is engaging on social media platforms, everyone is making sure that they are connected to you. They’re reading your post updates and thinking of you…a lot.

As for your competitor, who isn’t hanging out on social media? Um…what competitor? 🙂

Hay There Social Media can help you make sure you’re edging ahead with social media so contact us today!

Contributed by Hay There Social Media Team Member, Deanna Rose.

“Pink Shoes & Computer” Photo credit: www.mashable.com

Recommended Posts

How to Deal with a Customer Complaint via Social Media

Social Media – Can I Do This On My Own?

How to Use Social Media Marketing to Turn Inquiries into Customers

Social Media Recap of 2013 and Social Media Predictions for 2014

How Dentists Use Social Media

Why Women Love Social Media

How Print Media Companies Can Win with Social Media Campaigns

Social Media Day Detroit

How to Subcontract in Social Media Marketing

Hitting the Slopes with Social Media

Social Media Predictions for 2015

How Social Media Influences Buying

12 Social Media Quick Tips for Your Business on 12/12/12

5 Must-Have Social Media Tools for Your Small Business

8 Things You Must Do to Make Your Website Social Media Friendly

Do your kids mind their social media manners?

Are You Putting All of Your Social Media Eggs in One Profile Basket?

Social Media Safety for Kids in Ohio

Is My Tween Sharing Too Much About Her Life on Social Media?

How to keep your social media content from being “meh”