Tinika’s Blog – Social Media Direct vs Indirect Social Commerce

Social commerce is the practice of buying and selling products directly through social media platforms. This trend is expected to continue to grow in 2023, as more and more people use social media to research and purchase products.

There are two main types of social commerce:

• Direct social commerce: This is when brands sell their products directly through social media platforms. This can be done through a variety of tools, such as Instagram Shopping, Facebook Marketplace, and Pinterest Buyable Pins.
• Indirect social commerce: This is when brands promote their products on social media, but consumers complete the purchase on the brand’s website. This can be done through a variety of tools, such as social media advertising and influencer marketing.

There are many benefits to social commerce for both brands and consumers. For brands, social commerce can help them:

• Reach a wider audience: Social media platforms have a large and engaged audience, which brands can tap into to reach more potential customers.
• Increase sales: Social commerce can make it easier for consumers to buy products, which can lead to increased sales for brands.
• Build relationships with customers: Social media can be a great way for brands to build relationships with their customers and learn more about their needs and wants.

For consumers, social commerce can help them:

• Find products they’re interested in: Social media platforms can make it easy for consumers to find products that they’re interested in, based on their interests, past purchases, and social media activity.
• Learn more about products before they buy: Social media platforms can provide consumers with more information about products, such as reviews, product descriptions, and videos.
• Make purchases more easily: Social commerce can make it easier for consumers to make purchases, without having to leave the social media platform they’re already using.

Here are some tips for brands that want to be successful with social commerce:

• Make sure your social media content is high-quality and engaging.
• Use relevant hashtags and tags to help people find your content.
• Promote your social commerce products through social media advertising and influencer marketing.
• Provide excellent customer service through social media.
• Build relationships with your customers and learn more about their needs and wants.

Social commerce is a growing trend that is expected to continue to gain popularity in 2023. By following these tips, brands can be successful with social commerce and reach a wider audience, increase sales, and build relationships with their customers.