Before we dive into this story, here's an answer to an important question: What exactly is social commerce? Mashable explains that the term encompasses "new online retail models or marketing strategies that incorporate established social networks and/or peer-to-peer communication to drive sales." In the simplest terms, it is what happens when social media and shopping join forces.
Also called simply "s-commerce," this innovative approach to marketing has been met with enormous success from vendors around the country. Over 70 percent of internet users now use social media platforms to communicate and keep in touch. With the advent of mobile technology, social media is more prevalent that ever.
And it's showing in the business sphere. Mobile internet usage grew by a staggering 24% between 2012 and 2013, meaning that more people than ever are shopping while on-the-go. Here are some great ways that you can optimize your business for social commerce:
1. Use Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and other outlets to drive sales.
Add "shop" links to post and share new products and promotions across all of your social media platforms.
2. Optimize your site for reviews and recommendations.
Allow users or buyers to recommend or review your products on social media platform. Connect inventory to Pinterest or Facebook, letting people show off their recent purchase with great visuals. This is also a great way to grow authentic and effective reviews for your store.
3. Get Active
A recent survey found that 74 percent of people polled use social media to guide their purchases. Create a vibrant, authentic and engaging online presence that will attract new customers and maintain existing ones.
If you don't have time to implement the tools to make social commerce a success for your business, why not turn to a strategic marketing company to give you a hand? You can get all of the great results... Without the stress!
Insights courtesy of Mashable and Wheel Media, a San Francisco internet marketing company.
Image Source: [Flickr/mkhmarketing]
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