The difficult economy has inspired small businesses to adopt social media in larger numbers. According to “The State of Small Business” report from Network Solutions and The Center for Excellence in Service, social media usage by small businesses increased by 24% in 2009. However, while use of social media by small businesses increased, it did not necessarily meet the expectations set for it by social media practitioners.
It is important to note that the one aspect where the performance of social media exceeeded the expectations of the small businesses is the ability to collaborate more effectively externally, such as with suppliers, partners and colleagues.
While social media performance may have not measured up to the expectations of the small businesses, 22% of respondents already find it profitable to use social media.
Source: eMarketer, March 1, 2010
