by Mark Whitworth
source: wearegecko.co.uk

According to a study by Visual Objects, nearly 40% of small businesses don't use social media. When you consider there are 3 billion people on social media globally, it is crazy to hear that so many businesses are passing up the opportunity to target this huge market.

In our latest blog, we list 6 reasons why businesses need to say yes to social media marketing.

1. Increased Brand Awareness

One of the most important reasons your business should have a social media presence is to increase your brand awareness. It is reported that 60% of Instagram users discover new products and brands on the platform, so the potential to reach new (and existing) customers has never been greater. It is also one of the most cost-effective methods of showcasing your brand to your target audience.

2. Increased Traffic to your Website

Another benefit to using social media is that it can help drive customers directly to your website. If you don't include social media in your marketing strategy and are relying on search engines alone to drive all your inbound traffic, you are limiting your ability to reach potential customers.

Ensuring your URL is included in all your social media profiles, creating dynamic content with CTA's and engaging in conversations with potential and existing customers are all great ways to get people to your site.

3. Retarget potential customers

Did you know that only 2% of website visitors actually convert on the first visit to a website? Using social media remarketing campaigns is a great way of trying to get some of the 98% back on your website.

When a user visits your website, a 'cookie' is placed within their browser. Then when they log in to Facebook or Twitter, for example, a remarketing ad can be displayed, ensuring your business kept in the mind of the user.

4. Improved Customer Satisfaction

"Your call is very important to us. All of our customer service team are busy at the moment. Please hold". We have all heard this infuriating message at some time, as we waste our precious free time trying to get through to Customer Services to resolve a problem or issue. A few years ago, people had no option but to sit for what seemed like hours on end, begrudgingly accepting it as one of life's inconveniences.

In today's world, people's expectations have changed and patience is a thing of the past. Customers demand an almost immediate response to their query and social media allows them to get in touch with businesses instantly. Those who use social media as a customer service tool are able to better meet the needs of customers and improve the chance of customers developing loyalty to their brand.

5. Reduced Advertising Cost

One of the great benefits of social media marketing is how cost-effective it can be, particularly when you consider the potential reach. You can open an account for free on most platforms and you can be posting engaging content within minutes.

Most social media channels also offer paid advert options, which allows you to be more specific with your targeting as well as increasing your reach in a shorter time period. Features such as daily budgets will ensure you only spend what you can afford.

6. Knowledge is Power

Social Media has given people a platform to share their opinions (both good and bad). And let me tell you, they share... A LOT. While some people may be prone to a bit of oversharing, it does mean that businesses are able to glean more data about their target customers than ever before. If your customers are talking about your business or telling people what they like and dislike, then you need to be part of the conversation!

Most social media sites also have their own analytic tools that you can use to gather insights that will help you develop marketing strategies that reach your target audience more effectively.

Reap the Rewards... 

It is clear that any business can benefit from establishing a social media presence, so if your business doesn't have any appropriate social media channels, now is the time to create them.

If you need advice on developing a social media marketing strategy, then X2 Global Media is here to help! Drop us a message and one of our team will be in touch.