A significant number of businesses in the UK still don’t use social media as part of their marketing strategy. In 2018, Statista reported that only 68.4% had a social media presence.
Forbes magazine suggests that social media marketing should no longer just be an option. It’s now business-critical.
Why is it so important and what are the benefits?
Engagement
In the 21st century, consumers don’t want their relationships with a brand to end at the point of sale. They want to feel a sense of connection and need to engage directly. A sure-fire way to keep existing and encourage new customers is to develop brand loyalty.
A strong, positive social media presence assists in this goal. Clients who can engage with you, by providing feedback, or having public discussions are most likely to keep buying and promoting your brand.
This type of communication needs to go both ways. Don’t just read comments and feedback, respond quickly and professionally. This will ensure your consumers sense your active engagement with them. A positive reputation will build consumer trust and generate more business.
Education
With 66% of people in the UK having social media accounts, the nation is ranked number 18 worldwide for engagement. This is an instant audience available for you to educate about your brand. With many platforms to choose from, it’s only a matter of deciding which one caters best to your target market.
Consumers want to learn about you and your product, including its origins, its potential and any future plans. Up-to-date information will help you attract new business. Make sure your content is engaging and informative. Graphics and videos are just as important as the text.
Targeted advertising
Paid social media advertising is an ideal way to source new clients. They are inexpensive and prove effective when used correctly. You can target who sees these ads on the different platforms by location, age, interests and even connections. It’s also a perfect opportunity to market to new demographics, testing the water to see if you can connect.
Digital marketing isn’t always easy to get right. You could waste valuable time and resources exploring which social media platforms to create content for. That’s why talking to our expert team can point you in the right direction and help you make the most out of this all-important marketing medium.
