What is Social Media?

A textbook might say that “social media refers to online activities that integrate technology and social interaction with the creation of information through words, pictures, videos, and audio,” but nothing about social media is textbook.

Online communities like Facebook, Twitter, Joost, Plurk, Youtube, and LinkedIn are open communication channels that you can use to develop relationships between you and your customers. Participating and engaging in timely conversations, sharing content and, of course, having fun with your audience generates awareness of your company’s products/services and enables you to build a trusting relationship with them.

Within the social media realm, there is not just one big idea but rather several small ideas that come together to create a large impact on your customers. The objective is to position your company as an expert in your field and to establish a relationship with current and potential customers by encouraging open and uncensored dialogue.

Importance of Social Media

Social media allows your company to increase its brand visibility, customer loyalty, and ultimately increase its sales because your target audience is given the opportunity to hear, see, and experience your brand in an unobtrusive environment.

When users are willing and able to comment freely on your content, you create transparency and authenticity, which builds a trusting relationship with your audience. By engaging in online conversations, you can receive important feedback that will allow you to improve your company by giving you an insight into your target audience.

Integrating social media into a marketing plan is important because it impacts your bottom line. It may not result in direct sales, but social media creates positive relationships with your potential customers, drives traffic to your website, supports your brand, advertises your brand, and offers another outlet for you to track sales.

Remember, social media is more than stating a random and disconnected train of thoughts. It’s an ongoing outlet to engage your potential and current customers through a well thought-out plan.

Tags: Element, Social Media