7 practical ways to grow your business using social media

Running a business today comes with both excitement and pressure. On one hand, social media gives you a platform where millions of people can discover your brand. On the other hand, the competition is intense, algorithms keep changing, and it sometimes feels like you’re just shouting into space. 

If you’ve ever felt that way, you’re not alone. Many business owners struggle with consistency, engagement, or even just figuring out where to start. However, with the right approach, social media can become one of your most powerful growth tools. 

Here are seven practical tips to help you grow your business using social media, without burning out.

1. Know your audience first

You need to stop trying to reach everyone; not everyone is your customer. Instead, deeply understand your target audience; their frustrations, interests, and where and when to reach them online. 

For instance, a fashion brand might use TikTok or Instagram, while a B2B consultant would focus on LinkedIn. This approach saves you effort and builds stronger connections.

2. Choose consistency over perfection

A major challenge for business owners is consistency. After posting daily for two weeks, it’s easy to disappear for a month. 

However, social media rewards a steady presence. So, instead of striving for perfection, create a realistic structure, like posting three times a week or one video every Friday. 

Your audience values reliability and authenticity more than polished, “flawless“ content.

3. Tell stories, don’t just sell

Connect with customers on social media through storytelling, not just ads. Share your brand’s beginning, behind-the-scenes moments, or customer success stories. 

This approach builds trust and makes your business relatable, leading to more sales.

4. Engage like a human

Effective social media is a two-way street. Don’t just post and disappear; actively engage with your audience. How? By replying to comments, answering direct messages, and interacting with other users’ content, you build a loyal community. 

This engagement cultivates customer loyalty, leading to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth.

5. Be creative

Don’t just sell, mix up your content to keep your audience engaged. Share educational tips, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and customer testimonials. Add some fun or inspirational posts to build a connection and subtly highlight your brand’s value.

6. Use paid ads strategically

Use paid ads strategically. Organic reach is declining, so platforms often favour paid content. Instead of boosting every post, focus your budget on promoting high-performing content or targeting specific audiences. 

Paid ads are most effective when they support your authentic, engaging content and help you reach beyond your current followers.

7. Track progress, learn, and adapt

To get results, you need to track your efforts. Use free platform insights to see which posts get the most engagement and when your audience is most active. Use this data to adjust your strategy as you go.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by social media when you run a business, but the goal isn’t to be perfect; it’s to be present. 

Focus on connecting with your audience and providing value in a way you can keep up with. If you start small, stay consistent, and keep learning, your online presence and brand community will grow over time.