Did you know there are now more than 3 BILLION people using social media? Three billion! That’s almost half the global population.

So while it can be tempting to think that there’s no point bothering with Facebook, Instagram or Twitter anymore (life’s busy enough, you’ll never get seen, right?), you’d be missing a massive trick.

The fact is, social media still offers huge benefits to businesses, both organically and through paid tactics – and it’s never too late to join in. Here’s why…

Your customers are on social media

In fact, not only are they on social media, they’re actively waiting to hear from you! A whopping 80% of Instagram users follow a brand on the platform and 50% of consumers say they follow brands specifically to hear about new products or services.

With so many different platforms appealing to so many different types of people, your tribe is definitely out there.

Don’t worry, there’s no need to be on them all! The key is to identify where your audience hangs out and start there.

You can show off a different side to your business

While your website presents a professional face to your business, social media is your chance to lighten up a bit, show some personality.

It lets fans and potential customers figure out who you are and what you stand for. It also gives you the opportunity to show people why you and your services are so special.

By building real human connections with customers, you fast-track the know, like, and trust process. And let’s not forget, 77% of people who follow a brand on social media are more likely to buy from them than a competitor. 

Read my blog: How to come up with amazing social media content

It adds credibility 

70-80% of people check out a business’ online presence before either visiting it in person or making a purchase. I’m definitely one of them, I bet you are too.

But what would a potential customer think if they visited your social platforms today? 

I bet they’d be far more likely to hit ‘like’ and ‘follow’ if they saw a vibrant page, buzzing with interesting content than if they were met with tumbleweed, don’t you? 

Having active social media channels sends out an important message about your business – it says ‘I’m here. I’m worth noticing. Come and have a look.’

Too busy? Read my blog: 5 reasons to hire a social media manager

People love to share

Here’s a stat you can’t ignore. 71% of shoppers who have had a good experience with a brand on social media are likely to recommend it to friends and family. Wow, that’s quite an advantage! 

The internet – and social media specifically – really has stepped up to replace old school word of mouth recommendations.

And it’s so simple for people to do. When I needed to hire a Virtual Assistant, I hopped straight onto Facebook and asked for help in a trusted group. Within an hour I was swamped with names and links to business pages. A few clicks – and I had a discovery call set up.

Why wouldn’t you make it that easy for new clients to get in touch?

Sources: Hootsuite, Sprout Social, Dubub, Oberlo, Sherpa Marketing, Statista.