Advantages

Social media can be a useful tool for businesses, bringing advantages such as engaging with your audience and boosting website traffic. However there can also be disadvantages, including the resources required and negative feedback. Considering these pros and cons can help you decide the best approach to social media for your business.

Advantages of social media

The business benefits of effective social media use include:

  • Brand awareness – Compelling and relevant content will grab the attention of potential customers and increase brand visibility. See branding: the basics.
  • Brand reputation – You can respond instantly to industry developments and be seen as ‘thought leader’ or expert in your field. This can improve how your business is seen by your audience. See public relations (PR).
  • Cost effective – It can be much cheaper than traditional advertising and promotional activities. The costs of maintaining a social media presence are minimal. If you choose to invest in paid advertising, you can spend as much or as little as your budget allows.
  • Website traffic – Social content can boost traffic to your website. This can lead to increased online conversions such as sales and leads.
  • Evaluation – It is easy to measure how much website traffic you receive from social media. You can set up tracking to determine how many sales are generated by paid social advertising.
  • Customer interaction – You can deliver improved customer service and respond effectively to feedback. Positive feedback is public and can be persuasive to other potential customers. Negative feedback highlights areas where you can improve.
  • Target audience – Customers can find you through the social media platforms they use most. You can choose to maintain a presence on particular social networks that are in line with your target audience. For example, if you are targeting young people you could reach them through Snapchat. If you are seeking business customers, LinkedIn may be the best channel. See social media platforms.
  • Brand loyalty – You can build relationships with your customers through social media. This can help increase loyalty and advocacy.