The June 2011 Sensis® eBusiness Report examines a number of attitudes and experiences of small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) in relation to e-business across a range of online technologies. An interesting aspect of this report is that of the 95% who had an online presence only 16% reported that they had a digital strategy. Further only 18% of SMEs use social media in their business. Although this has grown 10% over the past twelve months this is still extremely low.
In this modern age of digital technologies, utilising social media is essential, as it has exploded over the past five years. Social media is all about engagement and relationships and valuable information is available via social media presenting SMEs with an opportunity to listen, learn and engage with customers.
SMEs that utilise this platform with a planned and strategic approach will benefit. Here are 3 reasons to connect with social media:
Wider Audience Exposure
There are millions of people using it representing an enormous pool of people that can be tapped into. Individual businesses that research where their target audience is residing and where potential can come from will directly increase their exposure.
Build Relationships
By engaging with consumers, businesses can initiate discussion about their products, share information and build confidence in their business. As consumers interact they see a different aspect of the business. This interaction can build trust and in a globalised economy these relationships are important and can drive customer loyalty.
Risk Management Strategy
One of the most important reasons every business should be engaged in social media is to protect their reputation. Being online allows every business to have a proactive risk management strategy and hopefully minimise damage from negative comments.
So what do people think about social media for SMEs – a waste of time or a positive new approach?
Let me know what you think.