There are so many social media platforms now…Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Youtube, Linkedin and now Pinterest!  Many businesses use social media platforms, but it can be difficult to understand the benefits of each one available.

While most claim to be the best, here are the top social media platforms and type of business that works best for them.

• Facebook is a user friendly site with over 800 million users worldwide of all ages. Businesses can create their own page and post updates, photos, videos, and connect with fans, customers, and other business partners. Facebook is great for engaging with customers and building a brand withing facebook. Facebook Marketplace allows users to sell products directly from the site.
• Google+ is similar to facebook, but allows businesses to compartmentalize social networks. It is fairly new, but most of the users are male and under the age of 35. This social media platform is best for businesses trying to reach younger audiences. at this point but may grow to be much more than that.
• Pinterest has exploded in the past few months. This site is a virtual pin board where users can “pin” photos or links that they like and then organize them into boards. Pinterest is great for gaining exposure for creative and design-specific products and any business with visual goods should consider this site.
• YouTube is a video-sharing website that attracts both men and women almost equally. Most of the users are between 45-54, although it does attract a fair number of younger users. This medium is ideal for businesses that provide services or products, such as tutorials and demonstrations. Also, companies with brands that can produce and benefit from quality videos.
• Twitter is another social media site that allows users to post 140-character messages. Interestingly enough, the majority of users on Twitter are female, and msot are younger. This is a perfect site for companies that don’t have a lot of time but are still interested in being connected. They can also use Twitter to find out who is talking about the company, promote new products, and conduct market research.
• LinkedIn is a professional network that allows individuals and companies to introduce themselves and collaborate with other professionals and companies. Many businesses use this to find new employees, but it is usually more of a networking site rather than a promotional medium.

These are some of the top social media platforms and what each has to offer to help you decide which ones to focus on for your business.

Author:  Janet Johnson