Which social media platforms should your business be using?

There’s no doubt that social media has become an incredibly powerful tool for businesses who want to build their brand. But with so many social media platforms to choose from, how can you be sure that you are selecting the best ones for your business? Use this guide to determine which social media sites and apps are best for your business.

Facebook

As the most well known social media site in existence, Facebook is your best option for a one-size-fits all platform. It has an eclectic following that represents people from virtually all generations and nationalities. Facebook is especially useful for promoting video content: in our experience, it surpasses even YouTube in terms of video views and engagement, and is responsible for countless viral videos.

Use Facebook if … you want to reach a broad, highly-engaged audience while leveraging your video content to its max potential.

LinkedIn

If your business focuses on B2B interactions and wants to make meaningful connections that could potentially lead to more sales, LinkedIn is the place for you. The platform focuses on making professional relationships and is far removed from the fun, quirky content that other social media outlets tend to extoll. LinkedIn Pulse is also ideal for companies who want to be regarded as thought leaders in their industry.

Use LinkedIn if … you’d like to connect with others in your industry, promote your B2B business, or establish yourself as a thought leader among peers.

Snapchat

Millennials and Gen. Z skyrocketed Snapchat into mainstream media, but older generations are increasingly turning to Snapchat as a way to keep up with family and friends. With more celebrities, publications, and businesses building Snapchat followings, there is a big opportunity for companies to jump on the bandwagon while the app is still relatively young. However, one downside to Snapchat is a lack of analytics that makes it difficult for businesses to understand the impact their content is having on their bottom line.

Use Snapchat if … you want to add humor and personality to your brand while accessing a younger, more tech-savvy audience.

Twitter

Twitter is very much an “in the moment” type of platform, so it’s essential to be on top of trending topics, tweets from followers, and more. Whereas you can get away with ignoring platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn for a couple of days, you need to commit to constant surveillance of your Twitter feed if you choose to pursue this social media outlet.

Use Twitter if … you want your business to be approachable to customers, and have the time and willingness to commit to rapid-fire responses to news stories, events, and user feedback.

Instagram

One of the best parts about Instagram is that brands can reach distinctive audiences simply by using hashtags. Not only are hashtags powerful tools for pinpointing the people most likely to relate to your brand, but it allows you to gain exposure even if these viewers are not following your account. Instagram Stories is also a great alternative to Snapchat if you want to reign in your social accounts.

Use Instagram if … you have a highly visual company or product you’d like to market to a widespread audience.

Establishing a social media following on a few highly-relevant platforms can increase your user engagement and lead to more brand ambassadors. Determine which channels are best for your business before you launch your social efforts for sound social media strategy.

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