A mutually beneficial relationship between SMBs and their Twitter followers drives brand ROI and consumer value.
People who follow small to medium-sized businesses feel more engaged with them and are more likely to purchase from them, recommend them, retweet their content, and share positive experiences about them with their networks, according to a report from Market Probe International.
1. Twitter followers drive recommendations and sales
72% of people are more likely to purchase from an SMB after they follow or interact with them on Twitter, and 30% of followers are likely to recommend the brand. Recommendations drive traffic: 86% are more likely to visit an SMB's website based on a friend's endorsement.
What this means for you
Followers can turn into customers who spread the word about your brand, leading to even more customers.
2. Twitter followers are emotionally connected to SMBs
63% of people follow SMBs is to show support for that business. 85% also say that they feel more connected to an SMB after following them. This is probably why followers of SMBs are more likely to recommend and purchase from them.
What this means for you
Twitter helps SMBs connect with new and existing customers in positive ways. Cultivate this by thanking your followers for their support by creating special offers that are only available to them.
3. Followers want to be plugged in and provide feedback
73% of people follow SMBs to get updates on future products. 61% also want to share ideas and receive feedback via interactions with your brand.
What this means for you
Offer Twitter-exclusive sneak peeks of new products. Intensify your connections with your current followers and attract new ones by inviting them to share their ideas and questions, and respond to them to generate further discussion.
4. Twitter marketing helps you reach more customers
34% of Twitter users say they have interacted with an SMB after seeing an ad that included the brand's Twitter handle. 32% are more likely to visit brand websites after seeing promoted tweets that dovetail with their interests.
What this means for you
Twitter ads can help you extend your reach beyond your current follower base and find Twitter users who are interested in your brand.
4 Ways Twitter Helps SMBs [Infographic] is a post by Pam Dyer on Pamorama | Social Media Marketing Blog.