How to sell on social networks? Discover social selling strategies to boost your sales on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest !

Sales via social networks, also known as social sellingFacebook, Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, Snapchat... these platforms now offer powerful features for selling directly to a qualified audience. Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, Snapchat... These platforms today offer powerful features for selling directly to a qualified audience. In 2021, 64 % of social network users made a purchase via these platforms, and this figure is set to double by 2025 according to Accenture. So how can you take advantage of social commerce and maximize your online sales? Here's a complete guide.

The advantages of selling on social networks

Visit social selling provides access to a huge audience while simplifying the buying experience. Here's why companies are investing heavily in selling on these platforms:

  • A massive, committed audience More than 4.5 billion people use social networks, and 87 % of buyers say a social network influenced their purchasing decision.
  • Better conversion Internet users spend a lot of time on these platforms, which encourages quick, impulsive decision-making.
  • Low cost of entry Unlike traditional e-commerce sites, setting up a store on social networks is fast and free.
  • Optimized functionality Facebook, Instagram ShoppingTikTok Shop and Pinterest product pins make sales just a click away.

However, this sales method is not without its drawbacks: strong competition, dependence on algorithms and the need for quality content to stand out from the crowd.

Establishing an effective strategy for selling on social networks

Before you get started, define a social selling strategy clear and efficient.

Determine your target audience

To sell effectively, you need to know your buyer persona. Analyze the age, interests, digital habits and expectations of your audience. For example:

  • All young adults (18-30) are very active on Instagram and TikTok.
  • All professionals prefer LinkedIn.
  • Decoration and DIY enthusiasts turn to Pinterest.

Choose the right social network

Each platform has its own specific features:

Social network Number of users (millions) Majority age group Income category
YouTube 55 25-45 years All categories
Facebook 32 35 and over All categories
Instagram 28 18-34 years All categories
LinkedIn 24 35 and over Superior category
Pinterest 10 30-44 years Superior category
X (Twitter) 6,5 18-34 years Superior category
TikTok 20 11-24 years All categories
Snapchat 21 13-24 years old All categories
Twitch 11 18-34 years All categories

Note: These figures are approximate and may vary according to the methodologies and sources consulted.

Analyze the competition

Identify the strategies used by your competitors. What are their best publications? What types of content generate the most engagement? Take inspiration from best practices and find a way to differentiate yourself.

Develop your visibility and engagement on social networks

To sell, you need attract attention and build a committed community.

Optimize your profile

A attractive, professional profile boosts visitor confidence:

  • A high-quality profile photo and banner.
  • A bio claire with relevant keywords.
  • A link to your store or website.
  • From regular and engaging publications.

Publish attractive content

Social network users are in constant demand. To stand out from the crowd :

  • Publish high-impact visuals professional photos, demonstration videos, interactive stories.
  • Focus on video Short formats like Instagram Reels or TikTok attract more attention.
  • Use customer testimonials Reviews and recommendations boost credibility.
  • Launch flash promotions Time-limited discounts to encourage immediate purchases.

Use hashtags and collaborations

  • Integrate strategic hashtags (#socialselling, #shoponline, #ecommerce) to reach more users.
  • Collaborate with micro-influencers They have a committed and authentic community, which fosters trust.

Strategies specific to each social network

Selling on Facebook and Instagram

  • Use Facebook Shop and Instagram Shopping to integrate a store directly on your page.
  • Make the most of stories and reels to show your products in action.
  • Offer live shopping to interact with your customers live.

Selling on TikTok

  • Create viral videos by demonstrating the benefits of your products.
  • Use TikTok Shop to sell directly via the platform.
  • Collaborate with designers to gain visibility.

Selling on Pinterest

  • Use product pins to enable one-click purchasing.
  • Optimize your images with detailed descriptions and links to your store.

Selling on LinkedIn

  • Showcase your expertise via educational posts and case studies.
  • Use social selling by interacting with prospects via private messages.

Track performance and optimize sales

To improve your sales strategy on social networksKeep an eye on these key indicators:

  • Commitment likes, shares, comments.
  • Conversion rates Number of visitors who completed a purchase.
  • Cart abandonment rate to identify friction points.

Should you invest in social network advertising?

Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok enable precise targeting your audience with effective advertising:

  • Cost-per-click (CPC) paid every time a user clicks on your ad.
  • Cost per thousand impressions (CPM) ideal for increasing visibility.
  • Retargeting Target people who have already visited your store.

Tip : Start with a low budget and test different formats before investing further.

The future of social commerce

Trends are changing fast. Here are a few developments to keep an eye on:

  • Augmented reality virtual fitting of clothes or live make-up.
  • Live shopping direct sales with influencers.
  • AI and personalization recommendations based on browsing history.

What you need to remember

Visit social selling is a powerful lever for boosting your online business. By choosing the right network, publishing engaging content and tracking your performance, you can turn your subscribers into loyal customers. So, are you ready to sell on social networks?