What is the Next “Big” Social Network for Businesses?
You have probably heard of Snapchat but have no idea what it is or how it can help you market your business.
Social Networks
This fast-growing social network has been around since 2011, but has until now mainly been the domain of teenagers eager to move beyond Facebook to keep up with their friends’ activities. Now businesses are starting to take notice, as Snapchat has become an extremely viable network to reach the young adult demographic. 45% of Snapchat adult users are between the ages of 18 and 24. At the same time, this age group has been exiting Facebook in droves as they discover these newer and faster-moving social networks.
What is Snapchat?
Snapchat
Snapchat is a mobile messaging app used to share photos or videos that are meant to be ephemeral. Photos are set to disappear after up to 10 seconds. Or users can choose to allow their photos and videos to be posted to a section of the app called “Stories” where they can be viewed for up to 24 hours. Businesses are taking advantage of this section to be able to consistently update their fans on their latest news. Some brands also allow users to send them snaps. Similar to Instagram, this is often done to collect fan content or run contests.
Why should I be using Snapchat?
Just as businesses were catching on to the power of Facebook marketing, the target young adult market was already moving on to newer social media networks. Now is the time to harness the power of Snapchat, while it is growing at its fastest rate. Even if your target audience has not yet discovered Snapchat, they will be sure to catch on soon.
What should I post about my business?
Snapchat is a great way to “get up close and personal” with your fans. The younger demographic likes to feel connected to the brands they enjoy. “Behind the Scenes” photos or videos will introduce followers to the people behind your brand. Try snapping a picture of your team working on a project or a video of a satisfied customer giving a candid testimonial. You can even build momentum for a new product launch by posting different creative elements or photos with certain parts concealed each day. Remember, your customers are following you because they want to know the inside scoop — more than they can see on your website or your other “official” communications. Make it fun for them to interact with you and your business and you will keep them engaged and following.
Snapchat can help put a face and a voice to your business. With 100 million daily active users and growing, this is a network you cannot afford to ignore.