If you're not riding the wave of platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter (now renamed X), and Instagram, you're leaving money on the table. Wondering why is that? The social media marketing benefits can explain it.
For starters, keep in mind that there are almost 5 billion people using social media worldwide, and this number is projected to increase to almost 6 billion in 2027.
That’s almost 80% of the global population! This vast user base is a goldmine for exposure, and it's a game-changer for brands. For example, Airbnb utilizes Instagram to showcase its stunning listings, stirring wanderlust and, ultimately, driving bookings.
But social media isn't just about products, it's about building relationships. According to recent studies, brands that engage on social media enjoy higher customer loyalty.
So let’s dive deeper into the advantages of social media marketing for businesses that you should know.
In this post, you’ll discover 7 social media marketing benefits. Let’s go!
What Is Social Media Marketing?
Before we dive into the social media marketing benefits, let's get on the same page about what it is.
According to Investopedia, social media marketing (SMM) is “the use of social media—the platforms on which users build social networks and share information—to build a company's brand, increase sales, and drive website traffic”.
What is that definition telling us? Basically, that SMM is not just about posting memes (although a well-placed meme can work wonders). It's a strategic approach to promoting your brand, products, or services on social platforms.
It's about creating compelling content, fostering relationships, and driving targeted traffic to your business.
Each platform has its unique strengths. LinkedIn, with over 700 million professionals, is a goldmine for B2B connections. By sharing industry insights and participating in relevant groups, you position your brand as a leader in your niche.
Furthermore, the ever-changing social media algorithms emphasize the need for high-quality, shareable and optimized content. Videos, in particular, have become engagement royalty. Statistics show that videos on Facebook receive more organic reach than photos.
So to leverage the benefits of using social media marketing, it's important to adapt to your audience's changing preferences.
7 Social Media Marketing Benefits
Now that we’re clear about the definition, let’s explore the social media marketing benefits that you should know:
1. Increased Brand Visibility
In the digital realm, visibility is everything. Social media provides a global stage for your brand to shine.
Dollar Shave Club is a prime example. Through witty and relatable content on platforms like X and YouTube, they transformed from a startup to a household name, garnering millions of views and creating a strong brand identity.
The strategic use of hashtags is another visibility booster. Incorporating relevant and trending hashtags into your posts can significantly increase your discoverability.
Starbucks, for instance, effectively utilizes hashtags like #StarbucksLovers to create a sense of community and encourage user-generated content.
2. Enhanced Customer Engagement
Social media isn't a one-way street. It's a dynamic conversation. Engaging with your audience through comments, likes, and shares not only builds a community around your brand but also gives you valuable insights into your customers' preferences.
Customers who engage with brands on social media tend to be more loyal, making it one of the key social media marketing benefits.
Wendy's, the fast-food giant, has mastered the art of engagement with its cheeky and humorous responses on X. By actively participating in online conversations, they not only entertain their audience but also create a strong brand personality.
3. Targeted Advertising
Traditional advertising often feels like casting a wide net and hoping for the best. Social media, on the other hand, lets you narrow down your audience with surgical precision.
Whether it's age, location, interests, or online behavior, you have the power to target the people who matter most to your business.
The power of targeted advertising is exemplified by the success of platforms like Meta Ads. With its detailed targeting options, businesses can ensure their ads reach the most relevant audience on Facebook and Instagram.
This not only maximizes the impact of your campaigns but also ensures a better return on investment.
4. Improved Website Traffic
Your website is your digital storefront. Social media acts as the bustling street outside, directing traffic straight to your door. By sharing compelling content and strategically placing links, you can drive a steady stream of potential clients to explore what you have to offer.
Take the example of fashion brand Zara, which strategically uses Instagram to showcase its latest collections.By combining visually appealing content with a seamless shopping experience, Zara entices followers to visit their website and make a purchase.
The result? Increased website traffic and a boost in online sales.
5. Cost-Effective Marketing
Big budgets are so last century. Social media marketing allows you to reach thousands, if not millions, of potential customers without breaking the bank. With careful planning and a sprinkle of creativity, your business can achieve substantial results without draining your resources.
Among all social media marketing benefits, cost-effectiveness is highlighted by the success of platforms like X. Many small businesses leverage X's organic reach and advertising options to promote their products and services.
By creating engaging content and utilizing this platform targeting features, businesses can achieve significant visibility without a hefty price tag.
6. Real-time Feedback and Analytics
Gone are the days of waiting for weeks to analyze the success of a campaign. One of the main benefits of using social media marketing is the real-time feedback on your marketing efforts. Likes, shares, comments, and analytics tools give you an instant pulse on what's working and what needs a tweak.
The power of real-time feedback is exemplified by the success of brands like Nike on social media. By closely monitoring engagement metrics and customer feedback, Nike adapts its marketing strategies in real-time.
This agility not only keeps the brand relevant, but also ensures that campaigns resonate with the target audience.
7. Building Thought Leadership
It’s impossible to discuss the advantages of social media marketing without mentioning this aspect.
Social media allows you to position yourself as an authority in your industry by sharing insightful content, engaging in discussions, and providing solutions to your audience's pain points.
In that regard, social media provides a platform to showcase your expertise and build trust among your B2B or B2C audience.
An excellent example of thought leadership on social media is Neil Patel, a digital marketing expert. Through his consistent and valuable content on platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube, Neil has positioned himself as a go-to authority in the digital marketing space.
This not only attracts a dedicated following but also opens doors to collaboration and speaking opportunities.
Ready to Boost Your Social Media Strategies?
So there you have it, marketers! Social media marketing isn't just a trend, it's a game-changer for both B2B and B2C businesses.
Now that you know 7 key social media marketing benefits, are you ready to take advantage of them?
Embrace the power of these platforms, and watch your brand soar to new heights. The benefits are clear, the tools are at your disposal – it's time to unleash the full potential of social media marketing!
Want to know more about social media strategies for your brand? Keep reading this blog post: “7 Ideas And Tactics For Repurposing Video Content”.
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