What is the power of Social Media?

The effect of social media does not stop online. It is part of a much bigger scope and although social media may firstly create a certain buzz about a topic, overall the power that it generates will establish word-of-mouth advocacy. The truth is that social media — when utilised strategically over time — is the most powerful form of digital marketing as well as market research that the world has ever seen. However, it’s not a magic bean that grows overnight into organisational success. It’s a platform for actual work. The art of social media marketing is knowing the best places to put in that work so you are able to get results and not just a lot of annoying people who think they’re your friends.

The reason why individuals choose social media as their primary source of news is owing to its ability to deliver real-time updates, globally. For example, with Facebook Live – and the ability to share on the spot – gives massive audience coverage. Individuals with larger followings, who share news and articles or give their opinions, have a big impact because followers tend to trust the people who they are following on those platforms. If you follow individuals on social media platforms who you trust, it’s more probable that you will believe the news as well as information which is shared by them. Social media platforms are also one tool that companies and influencers can use to show authenticity as well as transparency. For instance, the review system on Facebook pages assists people with evaluating the credibility of a company be it a restaurant, online retail store, media site or any sort of business. It’s probably self-explanatory that social media (in other words, speaking with people) is a marvellous tool for the first pillar of digital marketing — building relationships with fans in addition to customers. You could be a big company, a small company, or an individual. Any of these parties can use social media platforms in order to show your customers that you aren’t a fly-by-nighter. That you can be trusted. That you know your stuff.