Like the Internet, social media is a new platform that is constantly growing and evolving on what seems to be a day-to-day basis. As time passes and the amount of individuals who can access the Internet increases, the use of social media sites like Facebook and Twitter are growing exponentially. It is by no surprise that social media and its uses are the topic of discussion for small businesses and major corporations around the world.
However, despite some of the positive effects social media has had on specifically the advertising and marketing industries many companies are still hesitant to invest in social media, not fully aware of its marketing capabilities. Professionals in the advertising and marketing industries have felt social media would put too much power in the hands of the people—“A nightmare for advertisers.” In some cases that may prove true, but these social media sites are a wonderful opportunity for advertisers to reach a large amount of people – which is an unprecedented opportunity when trying to promote a product, service, or individual people are unaware of.
And this is where social media prevails. It is easily one of, if not the best medium to use when promoting an unknown product on little to no budget. The ability to reach a large audience without having to pay any money is one of the big selling points of social media.
How does it build awareness?
Social Media allows your audience to engage in a conversation about your new product or service. Word of mouth is a powerful tool. People much rather hear about a product from a friend than an advertiser. Social Media allows that to happen. If individuals like the product you’re offering they can easily share it and refer others to the product, its Facebook page, Twitter account, or website. And through time this spread of information can become viral as more and more people are sharing and suggesting your product to others. The result? You have built awareness of you and your product at little cost.
Social Media also allows you to engage in the conversation people are having about your product and build a deeper connection to its advocates. In addition, your company can build upon customer service and establish a relationship with consumers that will elicit their trust and loyalty. You’ll also be able to hear what people are saying about your product in order to make future improvements based on the likes and dislikes of your audience.
If you haven’t taken anything away from this article take at least this: social media is a powerful tool to build awareness of an unknown product, service, or individual at little to no cost. If you can accept that fact, your new product may be well on its way to success.
Tags: advertising, Blogs, brand awareness, Branding, facebook, marketing, Media Marketing, Social Media, Social Networks, Twitter, User Reviews, Video Sharing, web marketing
June 16th, 2010 at 5:36 am
Wow this is a great resource.. I’m enjoying it.. good article
March 11th, 2011 at 1:12 am
jumbo log you’ve possess
March 11th, 2011 at 8:40 am
I’d have to concur with you one this subject. Which is not something I typically do! I love reading a post that will make people think. Also, thanks for allowing me to speak my mind!