Just as if you were opening a brick-and-mortar store in your town, if you are running an online shop, you've got to make sure that people show up to buy your products. You need people to know what you're selling, why they need to come in and buy, and why they should tell other people to buy it as well. There are many reasons why social media is an effective tool for selling online your products. It's cost effective, there are billions of users on social media and it helps build a community around a store!
Get the word out and build a successful business by following these approaches to marketing your products on social media:
Choose the social media platforms that are right for your business
With tons of other social media platforms popping up everyday, your marketing options may seem overwhelming. But you don't have to be everywhere at once. Explore your social media options wisely and use platforms that best showcase your products and reach the audience you're looking for.
Facebook - Facebook is a must have. It has customizable marketing and tracking tools with a massive reach. Every merchant should create a FB business page. And of course you can add your products to Facebook Shop!
Twitter - If you have the time and resources to send consistent tweets you can develop a following.
Instagram and Pinterest - If your product has a strong visual element. For example if you're onlinestore sells clothing or unique items that need to be seen.
LinkedIn - Great for products geared to businesses and professionals.
Create clear and urgent calls to action
Once you've developed a following, you want visitors to feel compelled to click on your updates and take action. Create incentives by offering limited time promotions and discounts, and use action-based language: "Click here... " or "Enter to win... "
Offer followers and fans exclusive deals
Customers are more inclined to get involved if they feel that they are receiving special treatment or getting a deal that can't be found elsewhere. Create different offers for each social media platform you use.
Encourage sharing
Inviting your customers to interact with your product and brand will develop loyalty and help spread the word. Create contests or promotions that give people an additional chance for winning if they share the news.
Keep all of your social media accounts current
Regularly update your accounts with new content to keep your business on your followers mind. Layout and policies for social media platforms can change over time, make sure you're making the most of each one. Don't be afraid to show your human side by posting inside news and pictures of your employees.
Customer Service
Always remember, the customers come first. Answer all comments and feedback, even the negative ones. Make the customers feel special and avoid formal marketing speak. Imagine that you tell news about your online stores to your friends or colleagues.