It’s clear that social media marketing isn’t just a fad – platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and even Pinterest are shaping the way consumers buy, growing brand loyalty, developing brand recognition, improving SEO rankings, and resulting in higher conversion rates. Not convinced? Let’s break it down.

75% of people report purchasing a product because they saw it on social media.

At the end of the day, every company is trying to sell their product – Starbucks wants to sell you coffee, your local restaurant wants to fill their seats, Honda wants to sell you a Civic. Commerce makes the world go ‘round, and studies have shown that social media marketing has a 100% higher lead-to-close rate than outbound marketing.

If you’re not on social media, you’re missing out on a huge customer base.

By the end of 2017, 22.7 million Canadians reported using at least one social media platform, and roughly three-quarters of Facebook users and one-half of Instagram users say they’re scrolling through their feeds at least once a day. Instagram just broke a billion monthly active users, and Facebook has 1.32 billion daily users. And you can speak directly to these users for a relatively low cost when compared to traditional advertising methods.

Brand recognition is important, and so is brand loyalty.

Social media platforms are the perfect opportunity to develop and express your brand’s identity, and show what you have to offer. Your profiles, when managed with a consistent and cohesive strategy, make it easier for customers to find you and learn about your brand, while also making you more familiar and accessible to existing customers. Plus, social media is dynamic by nature, allowing you to paint a fuller picture of your company’s culture and values – it’s a win-win.

Your competition is already on social media.

91% of retail brands already use at least one social media platform. They’re developing their brand voice and engaging with their audience – if you’re not taking advantage of social media marketing, you’re behind. Not having an active social media presence is like not having a smartphone.