What Is Social Media?

At Northern Media, you probably hear us reference social media A LOT. Whether that be in conversations, on our own channels or on our website. But what actually is social media, and how does it help businesses?

Social media refers to online platforms and applications that allow individuals and businesses to create, share, and exchange content with a wide audience. It encompasses various platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, Twitter, LinkedIn and more. These platforms enable users to interact with one another through comments, likes, shares and messages, fostering virtual communities and connections.

… But that still doesn’t answer how it helps your business?

Having your business on relevant social media channels allows you to build a community and harvest customer relationships. You can do lots on social media, from advertisements to managing your customer service. Here are just some things social media contribute towards:

Enhanced Brand Awareness

Social media offers an extensive reach, with 86.4% of the UK reporting they used at least one platform in January 2023. This allows businesses to have the opportunity to connect with a vast audience and increase brand visibility. If you’re unsure which platforms your business should be on, check out our blog on the topic.

Direct Customer Interaction

Some businesses may opt to use social media for a more customer service approach. Companies can receive feedback, answer inquiries, address concerns, and engage in conversations with their target audience, nurturing relationships with their existing customers, and developing new ones.

Competitive Advantage

Let’s face it, your competitors are probably on at least one social media platform, which means you should be too! Gain a competitive edge in your industry by effectively utilising social media to build a sense of community, and with that, a loyal customer base.

Targeted Advertising

Social media platforms provide robust targeting capabilities, allowing businesses to reach specific demographics and interests. Through detailed audience segmentation, businesses can tailor their marketing efforts to reach potential customers, increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of campaigns.

Brand Storytelling

Social media platforms provide an ideal space to broadcast your brand’s story, values and mission. You can create and distribute content to relevant social media channels in a number of formats, such as video, images, and blog posts. Adding brand storytelling to your social pages gives a sense of community and humanises your business.

Overall, social media provides a powerful platform for businesses to connect with their target audience, promote their offering, showcase their values and build brand loyalty. By leveraging its capabilities strategically businesses can drive growth and expand their customer base.

We hope this helped you in your social media journey!

Need more help with your social strategy? Contact us today or call 01924 367 105