According to a market research by Rocket Internet, Facebook alone is responsible for over 15.9 percent time spent on the internet. Hence, if you are looking for a concrete proof why should consider using social media marketing then consider the following facts:
- Nearly 40 percent of people socialize through the social media sites than face to face.
- An average social shopper spends an average of $190 and $260 yearly respectively on products listed on Facebook and Pinterest.
- Average twitter user spends 170 minutes on mobile application or site.
Statistics indicate a continued poised growth with a solid foundation. Now, the questions startups should be asking is, how they can maximize the potential out of social media.
Social Media Strategy
As a startup entrepreneur, you should understand the value of planning and strategize. You need a detailed strategy that will; keep your business to focus and track. The initial step is to figure out how your brand company should be portrayed. To achieve best results, align the social media strategy with your business ethos. Does your company prefer a classic approach or straightforward method? Whichever defines your business, that’s the approach you should invoke? Interestingly, consumers need consistency, and they can sniff out companies which are not true to themselves. Do not fall prey to such.
Determine your primary objectives.
After honing an approach, it’s important to define the social media targets and goals. While well-established organisations will go for a holistic facilitated growth method, startups should consider the following:
Brand awareness: Every pre-revenue company uses social media channels for driving brand awareness. It should be done organically as you post content that is engaging to users and hence promoting your brand.
Content distribution: Generating unique and engaging content is a guarantee that users will share your posts and help market the brand for you. Hence, you should deploy this method to help you distribute your content.
Lead generation: Ideally, your social media platform should be a lead generator through a creation of organic traffic from your website or blog. This method requires Patience’s as the results need months to manifest.
Choosing the Right social media platform
Depending on the goals, approach, and strategy, you should be able to determine which social media platform will best suit your business. Currently, the following are the leading social media platform to help you advertise your Organization.
Facebook: It boosts of over 700 million users monthly. By far it is one of the largest social media platforms are available. If your result is to reach masses, then this is the right channel.
Twitter: Research shows that over 70 percent of twitter followers are likely to make an online purchase from the brands they follow. So why not take up the opportunity and grow your audience today! If one on one engagement is your strategy, then twitter is the right channel to use.
LinkedIn: For start-ups that are looking to find partners, this platform is precious. It’s more professional and facilitates global network.
YouTube: If brand awareness is your goal then YouTube is your best friend. It gives you an opportunity to distribute engaging videos to a larger audience.
Pinterest: Probably the fastest growing social media platform, and conducive for start-ups with physical products.
Rules of thumb & tips for social media
While each company is unique, your strategy will determine how best to proceed for optimal results. Below are some of the rules for startups:
Build a community: For long-term success and growth, build an online ambassador community that gives your business exposure and promote brand awareness.
Listen and engage your followers: Listen to your fans and gather feedback. If used correctly, social media platforms can act as focus groups for your startup.
As a startup, it may be challenging to work with limited capabilities and resources. However, tools like social media if used correctly are capable of promoting a brand at a minimal financial cost.
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