The internet purchasing experience has evolved. Customers no longer find a product and then go to a retailer’s website to buy it. Social media is helping to bridge the gap between the two behaviors.
“Social networks have evolved from photo-sharing sites to purchasing platforms. Over a quarter of people have used social media to find products to buy. Another 38% have used a social media app to make a purchase,” notes Shopify in a blog post.
Shopify lists the 10 biggest social commerce platforms:
- Snapchat
- TikTok
- Twitch
- Taggshop
- YouTube
These social commerce platforms allow users to take specific actions to facilitate purchases. Some social media networks, such as Instagram and Facebook, allow users to purchase directly from the platform.
You can also create content that persuades consumers to buy or remove obstacles to purchase by allowing customers to view, browse, and buy without leaving the app.
In addition, according to the blog, more than half of US consumers have already made a purchase using a social media or live stream video site.
Further, social media helps draw in mobile shoppers.
Ariel Ben Solomon is the Growth and Strategy manager at Ecomhunt. He is the host of the Ecomhunt Podcast. Can be followed on Twitter at @ArielBenSolomon
