The popularity of social networking websites has grown immensely. Social media is no longer just a method of interaction and communication for individuals. Social media websites are also serving as a platform for businesses to promote themselves, and enhance their brand visibility. Every business can benefit from having a Facebook page. You can post content and pictures that showcase the products and services you have to offer. You can get important feedback from your customers that will help you better understand what they like and what they do not like.
Interaction
People will respond better to other people than a brand image. You don’t need to create some kind of corporate character with your postings. Just be yourself and use your own voice when posting online. You want people to feel like they are dealing with a real person, and not just a company.
Social media websites like Facebook and Twitter are an excellent way for you to get important feedback from your customers. Make sure you are prepared to deal with any negative feedback. Respond quickly to any complaints, and try to fix whatever issue they have. You can invite them back and offer them freebies if you need to. If you don’t make the effort to repair relations, then your reputation will take a hit.
One of the best things a small business can do with social media is offering incentives. You can offer special deals for people who share your Facebook page on their Facebook page. You can offer a discount to customers who check in on Facebook at your store. Every time someone shares your page, or checks in from your store it will make your business visible to their entire friends list. This could be hundreds of potential new customers or more.
Word-of-Mouth
Social media can help you spread the word about your business, and you will spend little to no money for it. You need your business to be online so people will have something to point to when they are telling their friends about your business. Typically, these days most people will be doing this kind of thing online by posting your page on their page, or sending links to their friends. However, even in person, it is better if they can show their friends by looking you up on their computer or phone. Social media is very important for businesses these days, don’t overlook something you can take advantage of so easily.
If you want to know more about social networking for small business, the social media book – Sales 3.0 – The New Cont@ct Sport teaches real world methods of social media marketing and their application to businesses and professionals.