Social networks are for more than just socializing
When social networks like Facebook and Twitter first came on the scene, people used them to stay in touch with family and friends, upload pictures and share status updates. Now, however, the role of these platforms has significantly changed. While users still log onto these sites to talk with others, they are also taking advantage of these channels to reach out to their favorite brands.
This in turn has given retailers a new tool for marketing and promoting their products and services. And while many brands may think that they can only reach out to younger generations through social media, the fact is that consumers of all ages are accessing the websites. Internet Retailer reported that, according to a study by Pew Research Center, almost three-quarters (72 percent) of U.S. adults use social sites like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Pinterest. This is up from the 67 percent who said the same in late 2012.
The source explained that although younger consumers are more likely to interact with brands through social networks, older generations are catching on to how these platforms can put them in touch not only with family and friends, but their favorite retailers as well.
To effectively oversee all marketing and promotional campaigns on social networks and ensure they are generating brand awareness, companies can use retail management software to create initiatives, offer discounts and develop customer loyalty programs.
