October 25, 2011

Facebook, Twitter and other social media networks are no longer the stomping ground of the young alone.  Businesses now recognize these communities as powerful promotional tools that are an important part of any effective marketing strategy.

And the savvy ones are taking advantage of the extensive reach of social networks and tapping into to their millions of followers to engage consumers and share company information inexpensively. These networks have transformed how people and businesses interact with each other and are providing hefty returns and added value to companies. They have also been used to help institutions to connect with stakeholders and the public.

Locally, major financial institutions like the Scotiabank Group, insurance companies like Guardian Life Jamaica, and popular restaurants like the Grog Shoppe at Devon House all have prominent presence in social media. Guided by digital agencies such as Panmedia, these and other companies are using social media to promote events for consumer engagement, launch new products, get client feedback on specific services or stir followers for specific causes.

Businesses that want to test these channels should note that there are numerous other benefits and that the cost to enter is very low. Among the benefits that should prompt entrepreneurs and executives who want to be innovative here are some to prompt you to make that move now:

  1. Raises the profile of your business.
  2. Builds your brand and reputation.
  3. Ideal location for promoting offers, products and services.
  4. Builds deeper relationships with customers and clients.
  5. Allows for mining prospects to sign up to your mailing list.
  6. Connects and networks your business with others in your industry.
  7. Allows press release dissemination, article links or other ideas to prospective customers at a moment’s notice.
  8. Give alerts about new content on your website.
  9. A research tool to gather feedback on your products and services
  10. Connects and networks your company with others in your industry.
  11. Linking Twitter content to your website will give an additional traffic boost. This also improves search engine ranking.