Social Media Trends Small Businesses Should Know
As a small business, it’s in your best interest to stay ahead of the curve. This is especially true with respect to social media. Larger competition may have the resources and budget to dominate TV and airwaves, but platforms like Instagram and Facebook are an even playing field. There is so much potential exposure to be unlocked – and all it requires is a bit of proactivity and know-how. This article will help you get started by listing the top four social media trends that every small business owner should be aware of in 2023.
1. Influencer Marketing
Influencers are individuals who have a large online presence and/or an engaged and dedicated following. Partnering with an influencer to promote your product or service is becoming increasingly popular, as it allows you to reach potential customers in a targeted manner. Not only that, but influencers are seen as more credible than traditional advertisements; they’re viewed by their followers as endorsements of sorts for whatever products they choose to promote.
2. Social Commerce
You may have heard of ecommerce, but have you heard of social commerce? It’s a newer iteration of the former – an approach to digital shopping that leverages social media platforms as marketplaces. With features like shoppable posts and buy buttons on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and more, it’s never been easier for small businesses to reach customers quickly through the social networks they frequent most.
3. Live Streaming
The rise of live streaming has been arguably the most significant social media trend of recent years – and one that’s only set to become more important in 2023. Live streaming allows businesses to share real-time updates with their audience, fostering a sense of connection and authenticity which can help build trust and loyalty.
4. Ephemeral Content
Ephemeral content, or ‘stories’ as they are more commonly known, take the form of short videos or images that disappear after 24 hours (similarly to Snapchat). Despite their transient nature, stories have grown vastly in popularity since their introduction in 2016. They are often less polished than other types of social content, which actually works to their advantage – as today’s audiences respond well to authenticity and spontaneity.
Today’s entrepreneurs have an unprecedented opportunity to compete with larger companies through social media. By taking advantage of the latest trends, you’ll be able to build a valuable presence that drives engagement and loyalty.
Makenzie Adams, Marketing Specialist at Consumer Choice Award
