When it comes to digital marketing tools, social media is among the most effective and affordable tools that small businesses use. Social media has grown tremendously over the years in terms of users.
When I joined Facebook in 2009, there was hardly any local, well-coordinated marketing going on simply because not so many Kenyans had embraced the platform.
I relied on newspapers for worthwhile information. So much has changed in
the last decade. Traditional marketing methods have conceded much ground.
Digital marketing is the way.
When it comes to digital marketing tools, social media is among the most effective and affordable tools that small businesses use. Social media has grown tremendously over the years in terms of users.
It used to be a small
advertising mode, but now it’s a more significant marketing component for both small and large businesses.
Social
media is great for small businesses because it requires a small financial
investment to be implemented, therefore helping small businesses to grow.
Here
are some of the benefits of social media for small businesses.
1. Increased Brand Awareness
When
you have a strong social media presence, you can build your business reputation
easily. Through the help of a digital marketing company who can execute a
social media strategy, you can increase your brand recognition since you will
engage a wide audience of consumers in platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter),
Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, etc.
For starters, first you have to create a social media account for your business and start interacting with people. You can get people such as sponsors, business partners, and employees to like and share your page.
The more you get the
likes, the more your business gets recognized. It’s that simple, though it
requires hard work these days to get those likes and shares.
2. Increased Conversion Rates
When
your business gets increased visibility, it means that it has more chances for
conversion. The comments, images, or videos can lead readers to your business’
site and increase traffic. Social media marketing gives your business the
opportunity to interact with your customers on a personal level.
Research
shows that social mediahas 100% higher leads than outbound marketing. Individuals use social
media platforms to keep in touch with their family and friends. And because
people are active on these platforms, you can throw your brand in the mix.
This will expose your business to people and individuals may mention your brand to a friend when your products or services are needed.
3. Increased Inbound Traffic
When
you market your small business on social media, you can quickly increase your
inbound traffic. People who are familiar with your products and services are
likely to be searching for the same keywords that you already rank for.
You
should include social media in your marketing strategy because if you don’t,
then it will be difficult for you to reach people beyond your customer circle.
When
it comes to using social media, posting content on your account can be an
excellent opportunity to get a new customer. Again, posting content on
different social media platforms can allow your customers to reach your business organically.
Marketing
your business on social media can open your business to a large number of
consumers across the globe.
4. Improved Customer Satisfaction
It
is no surprise that social media is a great networking and communication
platform. Your small business can rapidly grow if you create a voice for it
using these platforms.
Nothing
makes a consumer happy like knowing that if they post a comment on your page,
they will receive personalized feedback and not an automated message. By the
way, I would discourage you from depending on automated messages. I understand
it is convenient and less costly, but then it’s an impersonal way to treat valued
customers.
One
of the best ways to show that you value your customers and pay attention to
their needs is to acknowledge each comment from them.
Parting Shot
So much now depends on how you package your brand on social media. Your small business can become a big business overnight if you make good use of social media marketing.