Did you know that there are currently 3.03 billion active social media users worldwide?
That’s a tremendous audience! Tapping into those networks, and building a savvy social media presence for your brand, well-positions your company to interact directly with current and prospective customers and clients.
According to a survey conducted by Marketing Sherpa, Dr. Liva La Montagne, Editorial Research Manager, explains that 85 percent of Americans identify as social media users. Dr. La Montagne further stratifies: “Broken down, 74 percent of people aged 55-64 years and 71 percent of people aged 65 and older said they used social media, compared to 95 percent of 18-34 year olds, 92 percent of 35-44 year olds and 85 percent of 45-54 year olds.”
Dr. La Montagne points out that 58 percent of respondents claim to follower their favorite brands on social media. The audience is there, and users are largely willing to align themselves with the brands that speak to them. That’s great to know when you’re contemplating how to up your game on social media.
Consider these additional facts that underscore how social media enhances the way businesses connect with growing audiences:
Fast, impactful customer service:
Social media is ideal for customer service because it positions your company to respond quickly and publically when it comes to customer feedback and complaints. Costumers appreciate being well-stewarded, and they are inclined to share these successes.
Jeff Epstein, founder and CEO of Ambassador Software explains: “More than 50 percent of social media users will interact with brands multiple times per month.” He explains that more than 70 percent of customers who report a positive service interaction via social media are inclined to endorse or recommend the company. The act of providing good customer service, then, gives your brand a satellite ambassador who is statistically likely to promote the brand.
Epstein summarizes: “Data suggests that your company’s ability to manage customer service via social media can turn complains into future revenue. And by leveraging social engagement, you can build brand loyalty and turn users into advocates.”
Visual content is most circulated:
Social media audiences love images and videos. It’s remarkable to learn just how much they relish these visuals: images and videos are 40 times more likely to earn a share than any other kind of content. Good to know as you ponder how to ensure that your content gets viewed and circulated.
Active Users per Month:
Facebook currently maintains the largest pool of followers, but the platform has stiff competition.
Audience data as of April 16, 2018:
Facebook: 2.1 billion followers
Youtube: 1.5 billion followers
Instagram: (owned by Facebook) 800 million followers
Twitter: 330 million followers
Reddit: 330 million followers
Pinterest: 200 million followers
Brand presence on social media:
According to Brandwatch, 91 percent of retail brands are active on two or more social media platforms, while 81 percent of small and medium-sized businesses operate on at least one social platform.
Mushrooming growth:
Brandwatch notes that 2017 saw explosive growth in the number of social media users; between the second and third quarters alone, that number grew to include 121 million new users. That’s four new users per minute!
Social media is an effective and strategic way to market your brand. Consider taking the plunge; it’s cost-effective and dynamic. Plus, an eager audience is already there waiting for you. Contact us today to get started!