5 things all small businesses should know about social media

It is an amazing time to be a small business. The internet has generated opportunities that previous generations could only dream of. With social media dominating our daily life, it is obvious that companies should have a solid presence in the online space.Here are five important things every small business should know.1) Before anything, have a social media presenceIt doesn’t matter which industry you are in, the importance of having a digital presence cannot be over-emphasized. An official website, Facebook page, and Twitter account are the minimum for a company. Nothing puts off a potential customer like having no online presence.Suppose a customer bought your company’s product and likes it a lot. Imagine her disappointment when she tries to learn more about your company on the internet and finds nothing.2) Social media can help you sell your products and servicesThe next step is to increase your company’s presence in the virtual space. This can be done with the right infrastructure and innovative marketing strategies. Companies can increase reach through ads and messages on platforms like Facebook and Twitter. It boils down to simple the fact that the more hits you get, the greater the possibility of higher sales.3) Social media marketing is the ‘IN’ thingWhen it comes to traditional marketing, small businesses don’t stand a chance against MNCs. It is futile to challenge the big boys. As a small company, you just don’t have the wherewithal. But with social media, the playing field is more level.4) Make it interactiveHaving an online presence does not end with marketing your products and services. Social media has no communication barriers. Earlier, it was a one-way street with the company doing all the talking. You were lucky if your feedback letter was noticed. Now, customers can provide their views and opinions with the click of a button. For a small company, this is invaluable.Some companies extend this by making customers a part of the decision-making process. e.g. A potato chip company reached out to its followers to suggest different flavours. The company received a tremendous response and acted on the top choices.5) Manage your brand through social mediaTo be the preferred customer choice, your company needs to earn brand loyalty. Social media can be a key weapon in your arsenal to manage your company’s brand. Easy online access to the company’s information can be a good start. Let’s say, your company is into horticulture and you are selling bonsai plants. You need to spread this information. Would you rather your customers hear it from you or a third party? It is best to keep them in the loop if the company undertakes any social activities. After all, everyone likes an organisation that looks beyond mere profits.