Facebook currently has over 850 million users. Twitter isn’t far behind, with 500 million signed up for the service. Social media is defined as web sites and other online means of communication that are used by large groups of people to share information and to develop social and professional contacts. Due to the rising popularity of social media websites, the way humans communicate is changing.
Like never before, we are able to keep in touch with high school sweethearts, former colleagues, and old BFFs. Facebook makes it easy, allowing us to simply click the “like” button, a virtual round of applause, rather than forcing us to actually respond to posts. If someone posts something especially funny or interesting, a click of the “share” button allows us to show our approval by passing that post on to the rest of our friends. Never have we been so connected…without actually having to connect.
For those using social media to promote a business, it reiterates that we should be having conversations with potential customers. Those who only try to “sell” their service or product on social media sites often find their fans tire quickly of the tactic and stop following them. However, if a company is posting interesting and engaging content — posts worthy of comments and re-posting — they start a conversation with their fans, which builds their brand.
Many of us are still navigating the twists and turns of the social media game. One thing is clear, however. Communication is a two-way street. Use social media to spark conversations that keep potential customers coming back to your site. If you provide a fun and interesting social media scene that your customers want to visit, you will increase the chances that those visitors will make a purchase from your company later.
What kinds of content do you post to engage customers on your social media sites?
