The way people network is constantly evolving, and so are the platforms they are using. This creates an ever-changing environment for business owners trying to reach their audiences.
However, being open to new technologies gives your business a competitive advantage. To be closed-minded in a time of constant change puts you in danger of being left behind.
Take, for example, Snapchat. It has become one of the most popular mobile applications and social media tools for young people. Snapchat is a photo and video messaging service that lets users send photo messages (often selfies) and short videos that are automatically deleted shortly after being viewed.
While using Snapchat isn’t mandatory for all businesses (particularly those with an older demographic), here are the key reasons you should use it:
Snapchat strengthens your online presence.
Snapchat is one of the most downloaded apps for both iOS and Android. Snapchat enables you to have a strong web presence that can help you improve your online marketing efforts.
Statistics show that more than 90% of consumers use the web to search for local businesses, and if a vast majority of your potential customers are on Snapchat, then you should be too.
Snapchat is a fun way to be interactive.
According to Small Business Trends, the Snapchat community shares more than a hundred million snaps a day. This means that this community is highly communicative and engaged.
Using the app can help you improve your chances of generating additional revenue and building customer loyalty if done properly. You can send highly engaging exclusive photos and videos that not only showcase your business and its personality, but also address the needs of your audience.
Snapchat creates excitement and a sense of urgency.
Through the app’s new short-term visual message format, Snapchat lets you provide your customers with real-time assistance through micro-format and short-term video. Imagine the look on your customer’s face when you give them the assistance they need by simply sending them a demo video or a visual presentation in real time. You can do it with Snapchat.
Snapchat redefines your brand to a precise target market.
If your brand wants to engage with highly coveted and influential millennials, Snapchat is the unbeatable social media tool. If your demographic caters to Generation Y or those who are born in the 80s, to tweens, and even to teens, this mobile app is perfect for your business. You can announce new products, sales, promotions, and giveaways all through Snapchat.
Snapchat can attract new followers and even retain existing ones.
Pulling new subscribers and engaging your fans can be both crucial and challenging. To make this work, you can try sending giveaways, coupons, and promo codes through interesting snaps.
Likewise, you can forward snaps that stage your exclusive content, perks, and rewards. Snapchat allows brands to deliver offers and mobile coupons in a matter of seconds. Coupon snaps not only reward customers but also provide certain incentives to bring them back for more.
Snaps of a holiday greeting or invitation are great ways to keep your brand top of mind with customers during any holiday season. Using powerful snaps to promote your brand or products to customers long before they decide to shop is a great idea.
Snapchat can take your “virtual friends” behind the scenes.
People love to get a glimpse of your business’ behind the scenes because ultimately, they want to learn more about you and your business. Snapchat can be a great place to provide followers a sneak peek into your operation and other related activities.
And since Snapchat offers an appealing video experience, it can be more powerful than a simple Tweet or Instagram photo. People are curious by nature, and this tool allows them to indulge in their curiosities.
Conclusion
As people are increasingly attached to their smart phones and looking for authentic brands to relate to, it is well worth considering using Snapchat as part of your marketing efforts. After all, snaps are for real.
About the Author
Jennifer Nini is a freelance writer, business consultant, and founder of The Social Copywriter, a digital content marketing agency for socially responsible businesses. When she’s not perfecting a sentence or coaching business clients, you will find Jennifer at her off-grid home in Australia.
I have tried snapchat but I am not sure how it works when it comes to marketing. I still have to learn it.
I think Snapchat has so much potential! It’s been really exciting to see it grow and see how savvy businesses are using it. I think it has particular power in marketing TV shows, movies and for tech companies with innovative products.