Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and other social media networks are more than just sites to shout out to friends and post pictures. Businesses can take advantage of these thriving networks populated by consumers from all over the world. These networks in effect open your potential market up significantly to millions and maybe even billions. While it is best for small businesses to target a specific market segment, the vast online population at least gives them the flexibility of expanding their reach to other market segments too as they see fit. Having a strong presence in the social media networks put businesses in the hub of their customers’ lives.
Take a look at the following ways through which you can use social networking sites for your business:
Spread Awareness – start by opening a corporate or business account in these sites. You can opt to put up ads to if you have the means and budget. Otherwise, you can start the ball rolling by populating your networks. Make these sites your online bulletin board. You can post information about your business as well as any updates your customers would be interested in. Allow your potential customers to get to know you through these networks. Encourage your contacts to “share” or “like” your page to send ripples through the rest of the virtual community.
Create Positive Noise – it is not enough that you have information and pictures posted on your site. You have to actively create positive noise. Get people to talk about your business and your products and services. At the same time, be vigilant about negative posts and bashers. You want to be proactive about these since they can ruin your business too. Keep an eye on conversations about your business so that you can do a spin in a timely manner. Better yet, drown negative noise with positive noise.
Interact with Customers – while you are at it, you might as well engage your customers in meaningful conversation. Use your social networking account to talk to them on a personal level. Get to know what they are interested in, what they will settle for, what they will definitely spend their hard earned money for, and many other personal preferences that you would not otherwise learn about. With this kind of information, it will be easier for you to come up with products and service that are more responsive to your customers’ needs.
Image Credit:
Master Isolated – Free Digital Photos.Net
