3 Benefits of Social Media Marketing For Small Business

Is your small business on Facebook? Do you blog or tweet? Do you “pin” pictures of your products on Pinterest? If not, you’re missing a great opportunity to connect with potential customers and stay connected to current customers.

Here are some reasons why social media marketing is beneficial for small businesses and some tips to getting the most out of it.

1.   Engagement

Once you enter the realm of social networking, you become less of a business and more of a personality. Every Facebook or Twitter should be the start of a conversation, so be chatty, informative and even humorous to capture interest. Keep in mind the 'social' in social media and stay away from sales copy. Focus instead on developing relationships. One way to increase engagement is to respond to posts or questions from your readers. Have those conversations and you’ll discover what your customers like and dislike.

2.   Reputation

As social media use in business has grown, it has become common marketing knowledge that a large amount of Facebook 'likes' or Twitter followers indicates business popularity and customer interest. Take advantage of this online reputation indicator by getting more people to connect with your business profiles. You can encourage people to connect and 'like' posts by creating contest and giving out free stuff. You should also include your social media information in your email signature.

3.   Information

Social media is now a source of news and information. By blogging and tweeting not only information about your business and products, but about the industry you are in, can make you an expert in your field. Keep on top of what’s happening in your industry and share the information as well as comment on it. Relate it back to your company and your customers. You can use social media to develop a reputation as an expert and keep your customers informed about your industry.

For today’s small businesses, social media is an integral piece of a successful marketing plan. Yet, most businesses simply don't have the time. That's when Blue Dog Marketing can help. Let us “ghost blog” for you, set up your Facebook page or help you create the perfect Pinterest business page.