Is Social Media Working For Your Business?

Like it or loathe it, social media isn’t going anywhere. In recent weeks, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat have announced new features for businesses that could help drive sales. 

This week alone, Snapchat has launched their new ‘Dynamic Ads’ for eCommerce advertisers. The new feature will give brands the opportunity to streamline their advertising campaigns through ready-to-use Snap ad templates and automation. While Instagram is reportedly testing a new sticker for Stories that lets you invite followers to an upcoming event and RSVP directly through the app. 

The potential for these features is huge when utilised in the right way by brands. Driving engagement, brand awareness and sales through apps consumers are using every day is a sure-fire winner. Which is why the rise of social commerce is so exciting for brands, when it’s used in the right way. 

Using Social Media To Drive Sales

According to a recent survey, a whopping 58% of people say that social media influences their purchasing decisions. And it’s not just reviews and customer testimonials that drive this. We are becoming more attuned to advertising on our social feeds and, because of that, brands and businesses need to step up their game in this sphere. 

A strong social presence is a massive part of staying on the radar of both previous and potential customers. That begins with regular posting but extends to ensuring your website and content is optimised for mobile devices. Even if you have a brick and mortar shop, you can bet your bottom dollar that your customers are checking you out on social media before making a purchase. So it’s crucial to stay visible, relevant, engaging and authentic on your platforms. 

It Pays To Be Responsive

How responsive your brand is on social media plays a big part in your success. In fact, a 2017 study found that responsiveness on social media was a huge motivator. For small businesses, this isn’t always easy. But the proof is in the pudding. Replying to comments and messages in a timely way shows that you care. And it will undoubtedly boost the performance of your accounts across the social sphere. 

For that reason, it’s important to have your finger on the buzzer. Keep your socials close, and reply as soon as possible to any sort of engagement. Chatbots are also an effective way of staying engaged with your customers without being plugged in to social media 24/7!

Be Authentic, Not Salesy

If you’re a regular user of Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, you’ll already know that there’s nothing more off putting than being sold to constantly. In fact, the primary reason people unfollow a brand on social is because they post too many promotional messages. 

Instead, it’s important to focus on utilising your platform to be informative and educational, as well as in line with your brand personality. Interesting visuals, exclusive content, and promotions have great potential to drive consumers to make a purchase. And it’s important to deploy that in a way that reflects your core values as a business and speaks to your target audience. 

Play The Long Game

There are lots of fantastic ways to grow your followers, such as giveaways and competitions. But the really successful brands get where they are by making a genuine connection on their social accounts. The buyer’s journey begins with becoming aware of your brand, whether that be through the use of promotions, advertisements, influencer marketing or engaging content. 

Only once you have achieved that awareness can you start to guide your audience through to a buying decision.And when they do buy, remaining consistent in your communications and the service you offer.

Brand Awareness Matters

When it comes to social, building awareness of your brand should always be at the heart of your strategy. Through this you can then move towards increasing web traffic, generating leads, and driving sales! 

If you think you may need some support with growing your social media account in line with the above, get in touch. We are experts in social media marketing and can advise and guide you on the right path, from building an audience to targeting the right audience through social ads. Give us a call on 01782 627 038 for a chat or drop us an email at [email protected]!