Social media is starting to take center stage in the business marketing sphere. Businesses have realized the importance of being present and active on social media platforms. Gone are the days when social media marketing was seen as just a trend or a passing fad. Factually; It is a great platform to build your business brand.
Businesses that have taken advantage of the digital revolution can tell you of all the benefits of social media marketing. These days, if businesses don’t have a social media division within their marketing department, then they’re most likely outsourcing their social media management. Even though social media is less about direct sales and more about building relationships and a loyal and consistent following, all the time spent building your brand and online presence will soon reflect into sales. The return on investment, though gradual, has ample intangible and tangible rewards. As a result, businesses perceive social media marketing in a more positive light in 2018. Below are some of the reasons why the perception of social media has shifted from a passing fad to an essential business tool.
1. ALLOWS YOU TO BE MORE ACCESSIBLE TO YOUR CUSTOMERS
We live in an era where information is shared at a rapid pace. Communication has never been easier and faster thanks to social media. As a result, customers expect that the businesses they follow are always prompt, available, and easily accessible if they were to interact with them.
2. IT’S A GREAT RESEARCH TOOL
There is more to social media than just selling. It can also be used as a great research tool. If you need more insight into your target market; their expectations of you, their perception of your brand, and their experiences with your company, then social media is the place to go. Furthermore, taking the time to research your market enables you to build a strategy that will reap the most rewards for your business.
3. YOU CAN CONTROL PERCEPTIONS OF YOUR BRAND
Many business owners think brand perception is something out of their control when that’s simply not the case. It is easy to alter and change people’s perception of your brand when given a platform where you can interact with them. Perception is the sum of experiences people have had with your company. Making your self easily-accessible and open is more likely to build positive feelings towards your business.