Social selling is reshaping the online shopping experience. Social selling is more than just a trend—it’s a powerful way to connect with customers and drive sales directly through social media. In fact, in 2024, over 110 million Americans, about 42% of internet users, have engaged in some type of social buying.
It’s Time to Get Social with Your Online Sales
If you’re selling products to consumers and you’re not yet using social selling, 2024 is a fantastic year to start. Let’s talk about why social selling is becoming so crucial and what trends are shaping this space.
Gen Z and Millennials are Social Shoppers
36% of consumers use social media to find products and 28% of Gen Z and Millenials have purchased directly from social media in the last three months.
Seamless Shopping Equals More Sales
Consumers really want seamless in-app shopping experiences. They want to make purchases directly within social media platforms without needing to navigate away. Tools like Facebook Marketplace and Instagram Shopping are at the forefront, providing a smooth and integrated shopping experience.
Short-form Videos are Driving Sales
We’ve talked quite a bit about short-form videos in general, but short-form product videos are driving sales. They’re particularly effective when they include social proof, such as endorsements from influencers.
Social Media is Becoming a Search Channel
Social media is also becoming more of a search channel for younger generations. Gen Z and Millennials are increasingly using platforms like TikTok and Instagram to discover brands and products.
Businesses should optimize their social media content with keywords and hashtags, much like they would for SEO, to get noticed.
Create an Interactive Shopping Experience with Live Streaming
Another exciting development is “live streaming”, which continues to grow in popularity. It offers a real-time, interactive shopping experience that can significantly boost engagement and sales.
To make the most out of social selling, brands should focus on engaging content, leveraging influencers, and creating seamless shopping experiences.
Social selling isn’t just about products; it’s about building relationships.
And remember, social selling isn’t just about pushing products; it’s about building relationships and fostering a community around your brand. Engage with your audience, respond to their comments and reviews, and make your brand feel human. By putting your community first and providing valuable, entertaining content, you’ll not only drive sales but also build a loyal customer base.
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Links in this episode: Social Media’s Role in Reshaping Online Shopping, According to Retailers
Do You Search For Videos First?