GUEST ARTICLE – The Power of Social Media for your Business – Milly Fyfe

Many businesses have embraced the role that social media plays as part of the marketing and communications mix.  In the past, platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Youtube were perceived as a time-wasting application to watch silly videos and connect with friends.  Not any more…

Did you realise that 71% of adults are on facebook and 74% visit the platform each day?  Facebook is the number 1 advertising platform for business to business and business to customer marketing.  What’s more is that on average we scroll through 300ft of content each day so whatever we post must be eye-catching, engaging and dynamic to stop the person scrolling and consume or interact with what you are trying to tell them.

But what do I post I hear you cry!  Having a strategy for your business’s social media feeds is hugely important.  Establish who you are trying to reach, what are you trying to tell them and why should they care.

Providing a range of content is key.  Nobody likes to read about me, me, me all the time.  Whilst you should post about your latest offer, an event you are promoting or history behind the business, try to share other accounts news stories and start conversations when you post.   By asking a question, you are more likely to invite your audience to engage with you.

95% of people access social media through their mobile, and so always ensure that your company website is mobile optimised so you can drive traffic through to make sales, sign up to a newsletter or make them aware of what your latest developments are.

Many businesses have seen a great return from investment in their social media accounts.  Brand awareness is enhanced, and trust is built by posting consistently.  You might reach a wider audience who didn’t realise you existed or what you offered, so long as you keep it short and snappy.   If people want to find out more, they will, and if you are really clever, by getting them to follow or like your account, you are able to market to them on a regular basis.

Social media isn’t a quick fix and results may not happen fast.  You won’t get 10,000 followers overnight by posting snazzy pictures on Instagram. However, everyone has to start somewhere and before long you will start to become noticed, enquiries will be made, messages will be sent, and leads will come forward so long as you respond to them in a timely manner.

So, what are you waiting for?

Milly Fyfe, Freelance Marketing Professional, Milly Fyfe Marketing and PR Services

Instagram/Facebook/LinkedIn @MillyFyfeMarketingandPR or Email: hello@millyfyfe.com