Why small businesses should be investing in social media

(Posted on 18/01/18)

Last year saw some big changes in social media with Twitter doubling its character limit, Instagram expanding at breakneck speed and the popularity of video, especially live streaming, taking the digital world by storm. Despite this, the latest figures from the Office of National Statistics reveal that 20% of small businesses are not planning to invest in their social media this year. Somewhat surprising perhaps, until you learn that less than 58% of small businesses are engaging with social media at all. To put this in perspective, over 90% of businesses with more than 1000 employees are using social media. Small businesses have some serious work to do to make up this shortfall. 

With almost a third of the world’s population using social networks regularly and a new user joining some form of social media every 15 seconds, social channels can play a huge role in bringing high quality leads and sales to small businesses.  Most reporters agree that the biggest advantage to social media is its versatility. If you want to share photos and videos of your business activity, then turn to Instagram. Interested in recruitment? Look at LinkedIn. Wanting to publicise industry news, sales and promotions? Make Facebook your friend. 

Using social media effectively means your message travels further, to more people. It lends credibility to your business, helping to build trust with your customers. You can engage and communicate more easily with your audience. In many cases, it can be a highly cost effective element of the marketing mix. Contact the Zebra team to find out how you can make it work for your business this year.