Well, to begin answering this question you would first have to know who your customers are.

According to a study conducted by the Participatory Marketing Network and two other organizations, brands are having a hard time engaging the younger generation, or GenY, and building loyalty among this group through social networking sites. The study examined the networking behaviors of consumers between the ages of 18-24 and concluded the following results:

84% noticed ads on social networks
74% say they click infrequently/never
62% of Gen Y’s have visited a fan page on a social network
48% percent have joined
36% say they don’t click on ads at all
19% say they find ads on social networks relevant
51% say they’d prefer a separate social network to manage brand interactions

Ok, but on the other hand, what do they want to see? We’re glad you asked!

67% Want to receive news or product updates
64% Would like to have access to promotions
41% Want to view or download music or videos
36% Want to submit their opinions
33% Want to connect with other consumers

Getting people to notice your online ads or fan pages, but then not click on them, is like getting real close to sealing a deal in person only to have it fall through. For all you business owners and marketers, think of how to reward those who make an effort to join your company’s Facebook or Twitter page. Maybe you can offer a discount or promotion crafted especially for those who become a part of your network.

We’d love to hear what other ideas you come up with!

Want more information on increasing your market reach? The experts at OneIMS will guide you through a variety of available options within your budget. For more information, contact OneIMS today at 1-888-ONE-IMS1, or send an e-mail to info@oneims.com.