Social Media Marketing (SMM) is a type of Internet marketing that involves using social networking websites to promote brands and businesses. Its purpose is to convey information about a company, product or service to customers and potential customers.
Social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest, and Google+ allow companies and individuals to post their messages for public consumption. Unlike traditional forms of advertising, SMM is relatively inexpensive, requires little maintenance, and gives the opportunity for direct communication between a brand and its target market.
The following are some reasons why you should consider using social media marketing:
- Social media is free! There are no costs associated with running a campaign. You only pay if someone clicks on your link or visits your website.
- Social media provides instant results. Once you start posting content, people begin to share it immediately. If you have a great product/service, people will tell others about it right away.
- Social media helps build trust. People are more likely to buy from a business they know and trust. By building relationships with your audience, you gain credibility.
- Social media is measurable. You can measure everything about your campaigns including reach, frequency, click-through rate, and traffic.
- Social media increases brand awareness. Your brand’s message gets spread faster and further across the internet.
- Social media makes you look professional. When you create a profile on social media sites, you’re representing yourself as a legitimate business.
- Social media builds communities. Communities give people a place to belong. They provide a sense of identity and connection to others.
- Social media creates opportunities. Opportunities arise when you connect with people who might not have otherwise heard about you.
- Social media generates leads. Leads are generated when people find out about your products and services via social media.
- Social media keeps you current. Customers want to hear what’s going on at your business. They expect to be updated on any changes or news related to your industry.
- Social media attracts attention. Attention is always good. Be sure to let people know about your business and what you do.
- Social media boosts sales. When people find out about your business, they are much more likely to purchase from you.