A recent survey from the United States Chamber of Commerce confirms what many already knew: small businesses across the country are discovering that social media can help find new customers and grow your business. In particular, they see Facebook as a major platform for marketing their business directly to their audience.
The findings of the survey show that more than half (60%) of all small businesses are using Facebook to grow their business, boost sales, find new customer sources, and reach customers they typically would not be able to reach.
Why Facebook?
For many small businesses, establishing a robust online presence seems difficult and costly. Over 50% of survey respondents said the cost of internet services keeps them from developing an online presence. Additionally, 57% of small businesses said digital tools were confusing or challenging.
However, small businesses agreed that Facebook provides an affordable alternative that is easy-to-use and understand.
How are small businesses using Facebook to grow?
According to the survey, 60% of small businesses are using Facebook to achieve a variety of business goals, such as:
- 32% reported building their business on Facebook.
- 42% reported hiring more employees since using Facebook
- 56% said using Facebook as a business tool increased their sales
- 52% reported that Facebook allowed them to grow their business by allowing them to reach customers outside of their local area, in other cities, states, and countries
- 70% of small businesses report that using Facebook helps attract new customers
- 39% of small businesses prefer to send potential customers to their Facebook page than to their own web page.
- Over 50% of small businesses reported that Facebook allowed them to take advantage of growing digital sales.
The report also explains:
“In addition to facilitating firms’ successes, over half of small businesses on Facebook reported that the platform as helped them overcome challenges in increasing revenue.”