How To Use Social Media To Your Advantage | the Webloyalty blog

As companies continue to debate the return on investment of social media, Webloyalty shares five ways to boost your sales through social media.

1. be reactive – see what people are talking about

Social networks are a great place for companies to interact with their customers. By monitoring social media sites, you can get a good understanding of what customers like and dislike and react accordingly. Sporting goods companies for example could respond to marathon runners by offering them discounted trainers. This is a perfect way for companies to build their brand in a sector whilst putting a human face to the company.

2. be reviewed – let your customers tell their friends

Positive reviews, “likes” and “retweets” on social media make consumers more likely to buy. Ask your loyal customers to share your products on their social media sites, and reward them with discounts.

3. be reachable – get your brand name out there

Make sure your branded social networking site is easy for your fans to access and that it links through to your online store. This means giving your Facebook or Twitter the same name as your store, regardless of how enticing a quirky handle may be. Additionally, make sure your Facebook name and Twitter handle are promoted on your packaging, storefronts and traditional advertising campaigns.

4. be rewarding – reward customers who engage

Hold a promotion and offer social media coupons to engage with fans around one of your products or services at a lower price. This works with services such as Facebook offers, but equally, you can offer coupons to all of your fans who tweet about a promotion. This is a great way to drive brand engagement and attract new customers. Competitions will always attract a certain type of audience, one that may not be relevant to your sector, however they will stay loyal and build up your fan base.

5. be loyal – treat your customers with respect

Implement a loyalty or rewards program for your most devoted customers. Offer the customers that interact with your brand on social networking sites loyalty points and long-term discounts. You will be encouraging your social networking following which will likely increase their enthusiasm about the brand, boosting your sales and making them more likely to ‘share’ with their friends.

Webloyalty believes that social networking can lead to visible results, but you have to put in the time to get to know your followers, interact with them and reward them for their loyalty.

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