With more than 2.3 billion active users and more than 1.9 billion mobile users globally, social media presents a huge opportunity for brands.
In fact, 83 percent of all marketers say they use social media as part of their marketing efforts.
If you're a business owner, you probably have a Facebook page and maybe even a Twitter account. But are you actually using social media to its full advantage?
Here are 5 tips for leveraging social media to create real-life results for your business:

1. Extend your online reach
Social media networks gather a huge amount of information about users, which can then be used by advertisers to target specific audiences. This helps connect your ad with the most relevant users, thus increasing its effectiveness.
Advanced targeting can be done in a number of different ways. You can target mobile users based on their location, demographics or what they’re searching for. So if you want to reach new moms in the Charleston area who have been searching for new cars – you can do that.
Or, you can reach audiences based on actions they’ve taken online. With social media marketing, you can reach out to users on platforms like Facebook who have expressed interest via their online behavior with similar services or products.
2. Try something new
Social media is constantly changing and evolving – so your social media marketing strategy should, too. Don’t be afraid to play with new tools and platforms to see what works best for your brand and intended audience.
Here are some of the biggest social media marketing trends you can expect to see in 2017:
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Livestreaming video – try Twitter’s Periscope, Facebook Live or Instagram’s Stories.
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Chatbots – use Facebook Messenger to create your own chatbot and provide automated customer service.
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Expiring Social Content – Create short video stories on Snapchat (150 million daily users or Instagram (500 million monthly users)

3. Create shareable content
Another great way to harness the power of social media: native advertising. An informative and entertaining piece of content that also promotes your business is easily shareable across platforms. Plus, it boosts your reputation as an expert in your field and keeps you top of mind to readers.
4. Engage online with your audience
When you’re posting new statuses, sharing links and boosting ads, don’t forget the power of simple engagement. One of the greatest benefits of social media is how it closes the gap between businesses and customers. So take the time to respond to users’ online questions and comments – even the negative ones.

5. Consult social media marketing experts
Does jumping into the deep end of social media marketing sounds daunting? Consider getting a helping hand from experts, like the Post and Courier’s digital agency.
The Post and Courier’s team works with you to create personalized marketing strategies, provide expert guidance and deliver results that can be tracked.
The Post and Courier’s digital agency understands all of the latest marketing techniques, including extended reach and social media. They can help you target specific audiences, boost your brand and ultimately stand out from the competition online.
To learn more about the Post and Courier’s social media marketing services,
visit PostandCourier.com/MediaKit
or call
843-745-5883.