If you've even casually looked into marketing over the last few years, you've surely heard about Facebook. You've probably heard about YouTube and Instagram as well. But what about WhatsApp? How about TikTok? Snapchat? Reddit? Pinterest?
A lot of small business owners are familiar with the brands but fail to recognize that these social media networks may offer great marketing opportunities, according to TheTab.com. Take Whatsapp, which has two billion active users. That doesn't match up with Facebook's 2.7 billion active users, but it's almost double Instagram's 1.2 billion.
In case you're unfamiliar, WhatsApp is a popular messaging service, sort of like Skype and SMS combined. You can use WhatsApp to communicate with customers — answering inquiries, for example. You can also send messages, letting customers know about events, sales or whatever else. If you use WhatsApp for Business, you can even set up a product catalog to create a mobile-friendly online storefront.
Reddit, meanwhile, is a massive online forum that draws in millions of page views. According to Alexa, Reddit is the seventh most visited site in the U.S. and 21st globally. You can pay for ads, or establish yourself as a community member, letting people know about your work. Be warned, however — Redditors frown upon spamming, or simply promoting your work without being an active community member.
When using social media platforms, ads aren't your only option. In the long run ads are arguably not even the best option.
You can use social media to connect with audiences, providing useful information and tips. Foodie Eloise Head has built up Fit Waffle Kitchen on YouTube, TikTok and other platforms. She's estimated to earn more than a half a million dollars a year sharing recipes and cooking tips.
If you're a chef, perhaps you have some recipes to share. Or if you run an HVAC business, offer some tips to homeowners.
