The shift toward online shopping has forever changed the retail landscape, and it’s still evolving. Gone are the days when people would head to the mall. Now, nearly everything can be purchased online from the comfort of your own home! This convenience has taken a giant leap forward at the same time as the rise of social media. Your potential and current customers are shopping directly within the same app they socialize with friends, watch entertaining videos, and browse through posts.
Social commerce is more than just a trend; it’s a game-changer. Global retail E-Commerce sales are projected to grow to $6.8 trillion by 2028 and capture 24% of global retail sales, forecasts Forrester. If you’ve been considering selling on social media, now is the perfect time to start.
Social Commerce is a Selling Opportunity
Social commerce integrates eCommerce directly into social media platforms. Your products and services are instantly accessible to a broader audience. The entire shopping experience—from discovering products and researching them to making a purchase—happens right on social media. Currently, platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and TikTok offer built-in social commerce features for seamless “shopportunities” (as coined by Hootsuite) right where your audience spends the most time.
Why Should Social Commerce Matter to You?
The future of shopping lies in social commerce, and the numbers back it up. Researchers back in 2022 predicted e-sales would surpass $735 billion in the next three years. Since then, e-sales have surpassed this prediction and continue to grow significantly. Social commerce is not just about convenience; it’s about reaching your target audience in their digital comfort zone. With 81% of shoppers researching products on Instagram and Facebook, and 48% of Pinterest users prioritizing shopping, your brand’s presence on social media is crucial.
On social platforms, your catalog of goods is open for consumers to explore, discuss, and share. The feedback loop is immediate and honest, customers aren’t shy about telling you what they like or don’t like. Plus, you get access to clear data about your customers, enabling personalized interactions through comments and direct messages.
If one of your target demographics falls within the 18-to-34 age range, you know they’re already online and ready to shop while they scroll. In 2019, 48% of U.S. internet users in this age group made a purchase on social media, with 27% of those who hadn’t shopped yet, but expressed interest in doing so. That number has skyrocketed since then. Additionally, social media allows you to proactively reach specific groups of potential customers with paid ads.
Getting Started With Social Commerce
To dive into social commerce, you need to be prepared for an influx of questions and comments. Many businesses are using AI chatbots to handle repetitive questions and notify you when a more detailed response is needed. You should maintain the “social” aspect of social commerce, offering timely and personalized customer service.
It’s essential to stay engaging, authentic, and valuable to your customers. Listening to your customers’ feedback is easier than ever, so be sure to pay attention to suggestions, concerns, and especially reviews—93% of online shoppers say a review can make or break their decision.
Social commerce often involves impulse purchases. To really hit the ground running, price your items under $70; they tend to perform better. Most consumers are hesitant to make impulse buys over $100.
Using social commerce is critical for certain kinds of businesses. Don’t be left behind. Many retailers are even closing down because they can’t capture the engagement of younger consumers who crave an easy, convenient, and personalized shopping experience. Stay relevant and deliver the experience they want. That’s good marketing.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
We’re here to help you set up your social commerce shop and craft compelling posts to drive engagement and sales. Don’t miss out on the future of shopping—contact us today to get started! Your customers are already online and waiting; let’s make sure your products are there too.
