Is social media really a waste of time?

By Shailesh Merai
November 24, 2014

What do kids, millennials and many CEOs of major corporations have in common? You may be surprised to learn that it’s social media.  However, many brand managers still think it’s a waste of time.

Yes, it can be a drain

Actually, if incorrectly used, it can definitely be a waste of time!  It can be a drain on valuable company resources i.e. employee time and precious marketing dollars.

Common contributors of failure are:

  • no engagement strategy in place i.e. choice of platforms, not knowing how to engage, whom to engage with, and what to engage with.
  • inconsistent conversations
  • no support from other marketing channels - dated unoptimized website, no blogs or development of fresh content, incomplete profiles etc.
  • you don’t have a social media specialist helping you and are trying to do it yourself - can be a big time-waster

Misunderstood by many SMEs

Random activity and incorrect measuring metrics are the true culprits behind the negative perceptions.

The reality today is that it has become a highly effective marketing and communications tool that can increase your company’s growth and long term success.

Be part of the conversation

What is imperative is to keep your company relevant by being part of an ongoing conversation with the people who matter the most to you and your business. Social media will get you there by boosting your online presence, increasing your credibility, and helping you engage and build strong relationships with your clients and potential customers.

Social media marketing for small business

But don’t just take our word for it.  If you’re a small or medium-sized business trying to figure out the bottom line value to your company, check out these impressive industry stats:

  • 50% of small business owners reported the gain of new customers through social media, most notably through Facebook and LinkedIn (Crowdspring)
  • 82% report that it is effective for lead generation (LinkedIn)
  • 100% of business decision-makers use social media for work purposes (Forrester)
  • 70% of marketers say that content marketing has increased their brand awareness (iMedia)

The importance of a strong social media presence

Successful leaders of B2B and B2C companies of every size are now well aware of the importance of having a strong social presence. They know it increases brand visibility and builds credibility for their organizations.

Marketing managers are utilizing specialists in these areas to increase their company’s awareness and to connect and engage with prospects, find new leads, nurture leads, and provide first line customer service and support to their clients.

Have an agenda for engagement

Do get started on a social media plan for your business today. It’s guaranteed to bring in sweet returns for your company that you never imagined possible!

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