Companies who monitor social media trends will most likely know about the numerous opportunities building a social community around their brands has to offer. Social media has become one of the best ways of linking consumers to brands in a variety of ways. Consumers are prepared to connect, but they will gravitate to companies that make that connection possible through social media platforms. Here awesome of the many ways companies can build brand loyalty by building a community through the use of social media.
Building and Maintaining Brand Loyalty
Companies that already have a loyal customer base can maintain and expand their reach to other potential clients by escalating their business practices to include community brand-building efforts that focus on three primary principles: feedback, advocacy and support. These three areas will keep current and potential customers engaged in topics revolving around the brand. Additionally, making platforms for like-minded groups or individuals can capture the heart and minds of community members–allowing them to share stories, provide advice or share tips.
One of the best things about companies being involved in building a brand community is that each company can be uniquely different on these platforms based on the way they offer different opportunities and incentives, building experiences for consumers to participate in.
Types of Brand Communities
Brand communities can be formed regardless of industry; an online platform can be developed for those who play video games, play and watch sports and a host of other areas that cater to various audiences. These platforms can be developed as a means for them to connect in various capacities and share ideas and experiences. Platforms such as Twitter and Facebook allow interaction between brands and their consumers.
Informative Communities
This kind of community allows consumers and potential consumers to connect and get answers to various difficult inquiries. These platforms include areas like“ask the experts”, but mostly, general questions can be answered by other consumers as well.
Enthusiasts
Enthusiasts for different brands have more in common than just loyalty to the brand. They share their love for the brand, telling others how it has become a part of their lives and thus assimilated into their lifestyle. Enthusiasts can be formed to attract members from all over the world. From brands such as motorcycles, food, gardening, sports to a host of other brands, this platform is an effective way of attracting potential loyal customers.
Suggestion Box
A brand community can also be built as a means of leaving suggestions about various products and services for customers. Receiving a reply allows them to feel connected to their favorite brands. Being reachable and endearing to customers through this medium builds customer loyalty.
Fans and Supporters
These people are certainly potential customers, and connecting to them through the social media platform can definitely increase brand authority and strength.
Fans
Fans of entertainers can connect with each other as well as entertainment companies through social media platforms dedicated to their favorite entertainer. Entertainment companies normally make websites for the various entertainers under their care, while most freelance entertainers have their own Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Supporters
Supporters of various causes can also use brand communities to connect. Humanitarian causes like cancer research and treatment programs, programs for the elderly, at risk youth or programs for the disadvantaged can find more supporters through this platform. These communities allow others to connect with people of similar interests and offer support to each other.
Benefits
Various benefits and advantages are in store for companies who take the time to build a brand community. It allows them to have a Global reach and play a role in facilitating conversations and various discussions while building brand loyalty that could last a lifetime.
