The days where a social media presence was considered a luxury are gone. With technological advancement, it has become mandatory for every growing UK business to own either a Facebook, Twitter or Instagram account. This makes it easy to reach a wider audience, interact with customers, advertise products and keep up with latest happenings.

There is proof that shows social media has been more of a blessing – and that when used properly, can help your business reach great heights. Here are ways social media empowers growing UK businesses.

Improvement in customer service

Social media has made businesses more customer-focused. Years ago, content, products and services were created based on what the business owner “feels” customers need. But with the help of social media, it’s now easy to find out what they need and tailor what you offer to fit.

For example, you can now create polls on Twitter, having followers and other users vote. So, if you wish to compare services, find out the best date to launch a product, or even get to know what consumers feel about what you offer, it is much easier.

Social media has also made interaction easier. It helps customers have direct contact with the company, giving your business a sense of personality. People are certain when they lay complaints or make enquiries, their problems will be solved due to the public nature of the enquiry. This also adds value to your business and helps you foster good relationships with customers.

It has made transactions faster

Customers feel that placing online orders can greatly be assisted by social media. With brands advertising products or having recommendations to click straight from. Making the user journey streamlined and incorporating a multi-channel marketing strategy.

Therefore, it’s wise to ensure you advertise and transact business efficiently on your social media profiles. It has been rumoured that Facebook are making plans to allow payments on their platform, and if that happens businesses will have further opportunities to increase revenue.

You spend less and make more

It’s probably not news that social media marketing is cheaper than traditional TV ads and other forms of advertising. With more than a quarter of the world’s population on social media, you’re also likely to reach a wider audience at anytime of the day – while spending less on these ads.

It’s also cheaper to run a Facebook or Instagram account than an actual website. So long as you have original photos and content to provide for your prospective customers, you’ll make just as many sales as a typical online store would – or even more.

Finally, “people you may know” on Twitter and Facebook also helps a business get more attention. When users have their location switched on, or follow a certain set of businesses in your niche, yours will be a suggestion and they’re likely to check it out – especially if your competitors don’t have exactly what they’re looking for.