Social Media Marketing - Are You Ready to Join?

Here are the basic facts…Over 75% of all Americans are active on Facebook. That’s 168 million people. And, not all of them are under the age of 30. In fact, 46% of Americans between the age of 45 and 65 are active on Facebook. These huge numbers are hard to ignore.

If you’ve been faced with a stagnant revenue base and challenging advertising budget, marketing directly on social media may be the answer. The access, affordability and audience targeting capabilities of social media marketing far exceed those of ‘traditional’ channels. These days, more people are engaged on Facebook than through television, radio and the local newspaper - combined. And, advertising on Facebook costs a fraction of traditional mediums.

While I’m a huge believer in the “old school” face-to-face conversation, I also understand the culture of consumer habits have changed. That’s why I’m on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat – because that’s where people are!

But, change can be hard. Here are a few more reasons why you should consider using Facebook, Instagram and Google AdWords to increase your business.

1. Think of how you make decisions to purchase products or services. You go online. Very few of us head to the Yellow Pages when looking for a TV. Or a car. Or a vacation. Why should we expect our customers to be any different? Go where your customers are – grow your brand organically.

2. Social media allows you to facilitate a conversation. You are able to interact on your customer’s level and gain trust. If you’re on Facebook, you have already experienced the power and impact of the site. Businesses have opportunities to engage with consumers on a variety of levels. If you aren’t on social media, – you might be surprised with the flexibility and ease of using these platforms. They’re not as “techie” as you might think!

3. The ability to measure the Return on Investment (ROI) of any money you spend on advertising is unparalleled. With a single click you can see how many people viewed your ad. How many clicked on it. And how many converted to customers. Unlike say, a billboard, you’re able to make real-time adjustments to maximize reach and exposure.

It is important to know, however, that simply joining Facebook, purchasing Google AdWords or posting on Instagram isn’t going to do the trick. Sadly, there’s no “Field of Dreams” effect – “If you build it, they will come.” You need to plan, coordinate and execute a marketing strategy that sets goals and expected results. Craft your message so it provides value to your families, reflects your business, your brand and your community...

Want to embrace social media marketing but aren’t’ sure where to start?

Consider enlisting a qualified social media consultant you can trust. Speaking from personal experience, don’t be misled. Instead, educate yourself like you would any other investment: Research their website, find out about their track records, past clients and experience level. In addition, here are 5 questions to ask a potential consultant before committing to a contract:

1. What has made you successful, including within your own social media networks?

2. What makes make you think you understand my market and industry?

3. How will you come up with a strategic plan?

4. Do you have a marketing background that addresses my needs?

5. How do you measure success and ROI?

There’s little doubt that social media is here to stay. Why wait any longer to get involved in a productive fashion for your business? Get started now…before your competition does.