Social Media Presents New Challenges for Businesses

The evolution of social media has created a sense of intimacy that previously did not exist.  As social media networks grew and expanded, that same sense of intimacy skewed the line between personal and professional relationships.  For business owners, this can a catch-22.  There is value in social media marketing, but execution and maintenance can be overwhelming and often leaves more questions than answers when seeking assistance.

Social media networks have completely changed the landscape of advertising.  Sites such as Facebook and Twitter offer free platforms with low cost advertising campaigns, however this form of marketing comes at a cost – your time.

Marketing strategies have also changed.  No longer are consumers swayed by a deal or a sale.  With information at our fingertips, the allure of savings is no longer the determining factor in a purchase.  How then, are businesses to compete for sales?  Simple answer, education.

Business owners are viewed as experts in their given field.  The more given prior to a sale, the greater likelihood of consumers purchasing your product.  Share insights, offer assistance, begin building a relationship before meeting in person.  Consumers today will pay more for the same product if a greater sense of service is perceived.

With the social media platform, business owners have three options for advertising campaigns, going solo, having an employee maintain the page, or hire a company to assist either by counseling or managing your account.

If looking for an outsourcing company for assistance, first ask yourself how much control are you comfortable with giving?  This will determine if a consulting company or management company is best suits you and your business’ needs and then ask questions.  Know what to expect and what you will be receiving for your investment.  Be prepared to answer questions as well; any reputable company will ask for specific information regarding your business and come from an educational stance as well.

Any reputable company should have social media pages to promote what they offer.  Review the pages for professionalism, any grammatical or spelling errors, and educational points or tips.  Look for quality in the company’s page before offering your account.

If you or someone you know may be interested in learning more, please feel free to reach out to me at stephanie@symbioticmarketingllc.com, on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, or LinkedIn, or call/text: 717.372.7717.

This is a guest post by Stephanie from Symbiotic Marketing, LLC. BuildLocal.Biz is not responsible for its content or links. BuildLocal.Biz provides space for FREE guest posts to promote your local small business. Click here for details.