First, a few quick facts. In 2021, over 4.26 billion people were using social media worldwide, a number projected to increase to almost six billion in 2027. As of 2022, the average daily social media usage of internet users worldwide amounted to 147 minutes per day. So let us be bold and state the obvious – essentially, everyone is hanging out on some social media platform. 

How about your business? Is it there?

If your business doesn’t have an online presence, you won’t be viewed as a legitimate entity. Whether you’re ignoring social media because you are not familiar with it, dislike it, or don’t have time to attend to it, the truth is that you are missing out.

What exactly are you missing out on?

Connections

Social media is one of the most effective tools to connect with people who otherwise wouldn’t know who you are or what you have to offer. Engaging with your target audience online builds brand positivity, trust and loyalty.

Conversations

Conversations are happening whether you are in the room or not. It’s your presence and your influence that create the kind of conversations you want people to get engaged in.

Customers

The beauty of social media is that it gives you the inside scoop into what your customers want and need. Prioritizing customer experience will also gain you an edge over competitors. And speaking of…

Competition

If you are not on social media, then your competitors automatically have an advantage. Believe us when we say – they are targeting your customers. Social media platforms offer a range of methods to customize targeted ads, including demographics, interests, online behaviors, predictive analytics, and retargeting tools to improve digital marketing campaigns.

Cost

How much does it cost to use social media platforms? Nothing! They are free to use. Of course, sponsored and paid ads will cost money, but they’re still relatively cheap. It will take some of your time and energy to post, engage and respond to your customers, but the return on the investment will be well worth it. 

Clarity

Let’s be clear – the first thing that people do when they want to check out a new business, brand or product is go online and search for social media profiles or online reviews. If your business does not have any online presence, you may as well not exist. If your business has social media accounts set up, but the last update was posted seven years ago, then the assumption will be that you are either closed or inept. Make sure people know you’re still relevant! 

So how do you stay engaged? 

Marketing expert Jay Baer says to focus on how to be social, not how to do social. It doesn’t have to take much! Posting consistently (even if not very frequently) to the social channels where your audience hangs out will show the customers that you are still there for them. Ignoring social media just doesn’t make sense in today’s world. If you do, it will come back to bite you tomorrow. 

PS: If you need help getting started or keeping up, reach out to RHM! We definitely don’t bite!