8 Reasons Why Businesses Avoid Using Social Media

You will probably find an increasing number of businesses putting their brand presence in social media sites. Several big brands (and also small brands) are using Twitter and Facebook to build relationships with their fan base.

Conversely, there are also many businesses who are (very) skeptical about this whole idea. Are you that stubborn businessman who is unwilling to try new social media tools?

If you are, you will most probably agree with the points below but look out for the counter-arguments!

1. Social Media is a Fad

Is social media still a fad?

I seriously doubt so. With so many celebs, businesses and politicians using social media as part of their marketing activities, it is hard to phase out social media just yet. Interestingly, social media is also creatively used to help police nab bicycle thieves in Boston! Social media is bringing real value to the communities and does not look anywhere near short-lived.

2. Social Media is For Kids

Looking at the adorable Twitter bird and endless gaming applications on Facebook, this argument is not without ground. But if social media is really for kids, how do we explain why teens don’t tweet and why the Facebook demographics are shifting to the 55+ age group?

It seems like the grown-ups are into our “kids” stuff now.

3. Social Media Can Hurt My Brand

True enough, social media is a double-edged sword. It can either bring you to glory or pull you down to hell. But let’s face the truth – If your product and service don’t suck (and you don’t offend anyone), your brand would hardly experience any negative response.

The resurrection of Dell from hell is a must read case study to prove this point.

4. Social Media is a Waste of Time

Time is a trade off for better customer relationships. Social media needs time but it is definitely not a waste of time. Think about it, you are hardly spending any money on this but it gives you great returns (tangible or not). Spending time on the people who support your brand (and also people who don’t) can improve the public’s impression of you. Why is that a waste of time?