Are you still trying to decide whether to set up social media accounts for your business?
Maybe you’re thinking that with so many businesses already out there, there’s not really much point.
Or perhaps you already have social accounts set up but are struggling to run them and can’t see the benefit of carrying on.
The truth is, social media isn’t a quick fix. It takes time (lots of time) and a clear strategy to get it right. But once you do, the potential for growth is limitless.
Before we get stuck in, let me reassure you. You don’t need to be on all the platforms and you don’t need to have thousands of followers – you just need the right ones.
In this blog, I’m going to share with you 10 reasons social media is important for your business.
If, by the end, you’d like help getting started – or ramping up – your social, let me know.
Social adds credibility
These days, potential clients expect therapists to have a social media presence. In fact, if you don’t have one it can raise serious red flags in a potential client’s mind.
The thing they’re most likely to question – if they can’t see you on social – is whether your business is still operating.
Active social media accounts send out a positive message about your business. They show that you’re operating, that you’re in touch with your clients and that you have lots to shout about.
Increases brand awareness
If potential clients can’t find you on social media they can’t connect with you or buy from you.
When approached strategically, social offers endless opportunities to grow your reach and connect with new audiences.
Having an active social presence builds brand awareness and keeps you at the forefront of your clients’ – and potential clients’ – minds.
Builds know, like and trust
Whether you’re active on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest or Twitter, your social platforms are a chance for clients to get to know you and understand your brand values.
Here are some ideas:
Posting pictures of you and your team builds familiarity = Know.
Creating content that solves your followers’ problems = Like
Being honest and consistent with your messaging = Trust
In short, the more regularly you show up online and help followers to overcome their problems, the more you’ll earn their trust and loyalty.
Increases leads and sales
Did you know that 60% of Instagram users discover new products and services while hanging out on the app?
If that’s not a reason to get involved I don’t know what is.
But that’s not all, the ever-changing social landscape means new audiences and opportunities are opening up all the time.
According to the Hootsuite Social Trends report, 70% of internet users aged between 55-64 (a group traditionally targeted by TV advertising) bought something online during October 2020. Of those 37% said they planned to continue doing so more frequently.
Drives traffic to your website
Social media offers lots of great ways to drive traffic to your website including:
✔️ Clickable links in your bio
✔️ Post links to blogs and product pages
✔️ Paid advertising
Your competitors are there
If you’re sick of seeing your competitors crushing it on social then it’s time to get serious.
Your social platforms are the perfect place to show off your business’s personality and let people see what sets you apart from all the others.
Don’t give your competitors the upper hand because you don’t know where to start.
Builds community
One of the most exciting things about social media is that it allows you to build a community of like-minded people, anywhere in the world.
When you put out clear and consistent messaging about your brand you’ll attract new clients who will be happy to share your story.
Those same followers can provide you with invaluable insights into the services you provide so that you can give them – and others like them – more of what they want.
Positions you as a thought leader
Through clever, well-planned content, social media allows you to establish yourself as a leader in your field.
Here are some ideas to help you do that:
✔️ How-to videos
✔️ Facebook and Instagram Lives
✔️ Tips, tricks and hack posts
✔️ Behind the scenes photos and videos
✔️ Share your opinions on industry news
✔️ Engage with other industry figures
✔️ Offer help and advice in groups (without selling your products or services)
Access to social ads
If you want to advertise on social media then you need a strong organic social media presence too.
Social advertising offers incredible targeting opportunities to businesses like yours. But, having active and engaged accounts, is crucial to their success.
Paid social isn’t a stand-alone marketing option. In order to make it a success, you need to have all your ducks in a row.
Share your success stories
Social media is a fantastic place to shout about your successes and share your clients’ stories where appropriate (e.g. if you offer workshops).
Sharing reviews, testimonials and video interviews with happy clients helps to reassure others you can help solve their problems too.
- If you’d like help setting up and running your channels or you’d just like support around what to post and how to create a strategy I can help. Book a free discovery call now.