New Customers for Small Business because of Social Media Use

In this blog there will be presented several interesting facts about social media usage in Small Business. A study reported by 'The Center for Media Research' which was done by Network Solutions and the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business tells us that social media adoption by small businesses has doubled from 12% to 24% in the last year. Small businesses are investing in applications including blogs, Facebook and Linkedln profiles more and more.

Social media opportunities are very usefull for Small businesses. The following chart shows a few interesting fact:


Isn't it interesting to notice that 61% of the respondents use social media for identifying and attracting new customers. Dr. Alan Glazier reported (2010) that the biggest expectation that small business owners have from social media is expanding external marketing and engagement including identifying and attracting new customers, building brand awareness and staying engaged with customers.

In addition, 45% of the respondents expect social media to be profitable in the next twelve months.


Nevertheless, 50% of small business social media users tell that it takes more time than expected.




Small business also experience other positive effects:

• 72% have found different new ways to operate more efficiently.
• 47% have been led to find new products and services that benefit customers.
• 43% have become better teams as hard times force people to work together.

Maximizing productivity while keeping costs low seems possible with the use of social media.

Aren't you convinced yet? Take a look at websites such as marktplaats.nl, Twitter and EBay. more and more companies start promoting their products and services via these kind of websites.

However, what are the disadvantages of using social media in your company? Is it just something for Small Business, or do you see big companies using social media as well? Is it perhaps a little unprofessional?

Feel free to react...