Let’s be real—business owners these days have a ton of marketing tools thrown at them. But if there’s one thing that works across the board, it’s social media marketing. With billions of people scrollin’, likin’, and buyin’ stuff online, being active on social media isn’t just a nice bonus anymore…It’s kinda non-negotiable.

Whether you’re just starting your gig, runnin’ a small biz, or headin’ a big brand, jumping into social media the right way can seriously boost your visibility, get more people to trust your brand, and yeah—help you make more money. That said, there’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to social media. Different industries and biz goals need different strategies. So let’s break it down: why social media matters, what you should not do, and how to build a plan that works in 2025.

Why social media matters in 2025

According to a Survey, over 62% of the world’s population is using social media, spending around 2 hours and 23 minutes every day. That’s… a lot of screen time. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter, but still weird calling it that), TikTok, LinkedIn, YouTube — they’re where your customers are hangin’ out.

So if you’re not there too… you’re invisible.

4 Big reasons why social media marketing works

1. You get to know your audience well

Social media lets you hear what people care about. Reading comments, joining niche Facebook groups, checking Reddit threads… all of it gives you the inside scoop on what people want, what they hate, what they’re confused about, etc.

Let’s say you run a gardening store. Hanging out in plant lover groups might show you that everyone’s panicking about keeping plants alive in winter. Boom—now you know what blog post to write next or what product to sell.

Pro Tip: Use AI social media content creation tools to repurpose what your audience is already saying into content that resonates.

2. Personalized Ads = Magic

People expect ads to speak to them now. Luckily, social platforms let you do super-targeted ads based on age, interests, past behavior, and all that jazz.

Here’s what to do:

  • Install retargeting pixels on your site so your ads can follow people around the internet (yes, kinda creepy, but it works).
  • Target specific interests — if you sell yoga mats, run ads for people who follow wellness influencers or meditation apps.
  • Create landing pages that match the ad platform’s vibe. TikTok users don’t wanna land on a boring product page, y’know?

Social media ad spend is predicted to hit $82.23 billion by the end of 2025, so yeah… get in on it.

3. Helps with SEO (Even if indirectly)

OK, so social likes and shares don’t directly boost Google rankings. BUT when your social content goes viral, it sends people to your website — and that helps.

Imagine this: you post a viral reel that links to your blog post. You get thousands of clicks. Google notices your site getting attention, and suddenly you’re ranking better. Win-win.

Bonus tip: Use a social media management platform to track which posts are getting the most traction and adjust your strategy accordingly.

4. Builds trust (a.k.a. Social Proof)

People buy from brands they trust. Social media makes it way easier to build that trust.

  • Ask customers to post pics/videos with your stuff.
  • Repost reviews and thank them
  • Work with influencers that your audience already follows.

Oh, and if you’ve been featured in podcasts, blogs, or news articles — flex it. Post that stuff. It shows you’re legit.

How small businesses can use social media like pros

Even if you’re just running things out of your kitchen or from a cozy little shop, here’s how you can use social media to grow:

1. Marketing

Post tutorials, behind-the-scenes stuff, customer shoutouts, or even memes. Just show up consistently and build that connection.

2. Advertising

You don’t need to break the bank. Social ads are way cheaper than traditional ads, and you can hyper-target. Platforms like:

  • Facebook/Instagram Ads Manager
  • Pinterest Ads
  • YouTube
  • LinkedIn (if you’re B2B)

Also — don’t sleep on influencer collabs. Even micro-influencers can bring a bunch of new eyeballs your way.

3. Social Selling

You don’t need a website. Platforms like IG Shops, TikTok Shopping, and Pinterest let you sell straight from your profile.

4. Find new growth areas

Use tools to see what people are saying about your niche. You might find new trends, product ideas, or even cities to expand into.

Example: You notice people in Bangalore are talking non-stop about vegan bakery items. If you own a bakery nearby — that’s a golden opportunity!

Wanna win on social in 2025? Here’s your plan:

1. Set Real Goals (Not Just “Get More Likes”)

Make your goals SMART:

  • Specific (e.g., grow IG followers by 25% in 3 months)
  • Measurable
  • Achievable
  • Relevant
  • Time-bound

2. Make a content plan (and Stick to It)

  • Choose your platforms wisely. Don’t try to be everywhere.
  • Decide what you’ll post — reels, testimonials, memes, carousels, whatever fits your vibe.
  • Post consistently, not just when you feel like it.

3. Watch the right numbers

Keep an eye on:

  • Impressions
  • Reach
  • Engagement rate (likes, saves, shares)
  • Growth rate
  • ROI (how much money you’re makin’ from your social efforts)

That way, you know what’s working — and what’s not.

4. Stay flexible

Things change fast on social. If something flops, don’t panic. Test different post times, content types, or even switch platforms if needed.

Example: If your Instagram reels are getting more love than your static posts — double down on reels!

Final thoughts

Social media ain’t just some trend — it’s how people live now. If you’re running a business in 2025 and not taking social seriously, you’re leaving a ton of growth (and money) on the table.

It helps you get seen, be heard, and build real relationships with people who could become loyal customers.

So here’s the big question…

Your customers are already on social media. Are YOU?