Did you know that even if you don’t have an online presence, the internet can have a profound affect on the way you run your business? Because the truth is that even if your company is offline, people can find out about it and contact you by phone.
Picture this: A person on a social media site like the popular Twitter reads a complimentary message about a local gym. The individual then uses a phone directory website to locate your number, and a few minutes later they contact you and ask about a membership.
What you just read is not fiction.
In fact, it happens every day.
Businesses that do not currently have an online presence receive endorsements and leads from people who are communicating on social media sites. And because consumers are increasingly turning to the internet to help them with their offline buying decisions, it has an affect on companies that don’t sell goods online.
In fact, in one recent study, one out of every four internet users said they consult online reviews on sites like Amazon before they order any product or service.Probably the biggest beneficiary of social media sites are small offline restaurants.
Why?
Well, many social media sites, like Yelp, allow users to post restaurant reviews. So, when an internet user wants to try out a new restaurant in their area, more often than not she will consult sites like Yelp. And if the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, there is a good chance she will eat there. As you might imagine, most small restaurants do not maintain their own website and they do not advertise online.So, what does this mean for offline businesses?
Well, for starters, it lets them know that social media sites can be used to boost sales even if their business is presently offline. It also means that they should pay attention to what customers are saying about their company, because it won’t always be positive. These comments can appear on a number of different social media or consumer review sites.
5 Ways you can Use Social Media Sites for your Benefit
1. Get your Feet Wet
The first step to taking advantage of social media sites is to actually recognize that they have an impact on the way consumers view almost everything these days. That means that you should search for each and every comment about your business you can locate. Find out what consumers are saying about you! Whether it is positive or negative, you can use this information to improve your business and grow your sales.
2. The Ratings Game
If you believe in your product or service, you should encourage your customers to rate your company online. Remember, the more positive reviews you receive the better. You might also consider printing a reminder on the check or bill that encourages customers to visit their favorite social media site. As a sot, you can also reward customers who provide positive review with coupons or special discounts.
3. Accentuate the Positive, but don’t Ignore the Negative
While it may be human nature to shrug off serious criticism, when you own a business it is best to pay them some mind. Of course that doesn’t mean you should rearrange your business after each negative review. But when you truly believe that the comment is valid, you should take heed. How you go about addressing these problems is of course up to you, but you should always keep in mind that your customers are using the internet to discuss your business, and if there is a glaring problem then you must deal with it.
4. Network, Network, Network
In the end, social media sites are used for socialization, which make them the perfect communication tool for businessmen who are trying get a little free advertising for their companies. And because sites like Twitter and Facebook are some of the fastest growing sites on the internet, it probably won’t be hard to meet people. Once you get to know them a bit you can tell them about what to do, about your business, you might even send them a few free coupons or special discounts via email.
5. Join a Message Board
If you own a home or small business, it’s easy as pie to join a message board that focuses on your industry. On the board you can share your knowledge and experience and quickly establish yourself as a trusted member of the community. After that, you should feel free to exchange business information with anyone who is interested.
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