Social Networks create opportunities for Small Businesses to grow in a big way. Companies like Walmart are great for prices but they lack personality. Even with the economy today, people still value quality and creativity. But how can a small business compete with the corporate land of Walmart and Ebay?
Social Networks that value user generated contributions have proven to be powerful competitors. Founded in 2005, Etsy coins itself “the world’s handmade marketplace.” (This reminds me of HSBC’s slogan, “the world’s local bank.”) Appealing to the niche market of style and taste, companies like Etsy continue to grow in popularity amongst a younger, tech-savvy crowd. You can create something without the cost of a store front but still get a lot of publicity or you can add that exposure to your existing face to face business. On Etsy’s site as a consumer, I can see how many people viewed a product, liked it, what they thought of it, or I could put what I think of something up that I’ve tried. As a seller, that’s obviously valuable information. Etsy is just one of those companies that’s large but feel small and personal. Even their offices in Brooklyn serve as examples of what they represent…actually containing many of the unique items that they sell.
When going on vacation, do you stick to the franchise restaurants you know and like or do you chance a mom and pop spot? As dull as having the same average quality burger you can have at the mall near your house is, possibly having stale coffee and pie isn’t much more appealing. Mashable.com explains how small businesses are using social media for real results. So for example, with a little research on Yelp, another Social Network, you can search through restaurants in a specific area and read user generated reviews or you can post a review up yourself of a place you’ve tried. So if you’re looking for the best hot dog or salad, you just might be able to find it and have a little more fun than your ordinary burger with ketchup. And if you decide to be adventurous while you’re on the road, you can choose to give people a heads up too.
Go for it. To anyone that’s had a dream of creating something unique or delicious and making a business or impact out of it, don’t let mass production intimidate you. Figure out how to maximize your customer feedback and evaluate the potential you have to grow and make something special. The opportunities are here right now. Etsy and Yelp are just a couple of Social Networks that you can use. Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and others can be used in similar ways to develop your image and share feedback. Share your heart’s passion. We can’t wait to try it and tell you what we think.