19/08/2011
Small and medium-sized enterprises could be generating a wealth of new business by making better use of social media, according to Fresh Business Thinking.
A survey by TalkTalk Business has found that just one per cent of SMEs are using social media to increase business leads and attract more customers. Sites like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter can be marketing goldmines, particularly as they are free to use.
They are also a great way to communicate with employees, encouraging employee engagement. 21 per cent of respondents said they used the sites for this purpose.
According to the poll, the main reason why 43 per cent of SMEs are reluctant to use social media is simple lack of education, which can easily be fixed.
For real online marketing success, SMEs might like to consider hiring a search engine optimisation company to handle and promote their online presence, perhaps using factoring services to free up some cash in the short term.
The investment is worthwhile, according to TalkTalk Business managing director, Paul Lawton, who told The Drum: "Social media can prove invaluable as a new business tool.
"Its business benefits range from being able to engage and understand the needs of customers and prospects through to gaining insights into target markets and perceptions of your organisation or brand."
Mr Lawton continued: "There's certainly scope for more SMEs to be educated on how social media channels can be applied to business and be harnessed to benefit the bottom line."
Elizabeth Smythe