Snapchat has emerged as a popular social media platform that has been adopted by millions of people worldwide. Originally designed as a messaging app, Snapchat has evolved to become a popular platform for sharing images, videos, and other content. While Snapchat is popular among teenagers and young adults, it is now increasingly being used by businesses as a marketing tool to reach younger audiences.
In February 2023, Snapchat announced that it had 750 million monthly active users, and 300 million daily active users, with 75% of those users being under the age of 34. This makes Snapchat a valuable platform for businesses targeting younger audiences.
In this article, we will explore how businesses can make use of Snapchat as a marketing tool.
1. Creating engaging content
Snapchat users are known for their love of engaging content. Businesses can create content that is both visually appealing and interesting to engage Snapchat users. For example, businesses can create Snapchat Stories that showcase behind-the-scenes looks at their operations, products, or services. The content can be short and snappy, just like the platform itself, and can feature special promotions or offers to encourage engagement.
2. Influencer marketing
Influencer marketing has become increasingly popular on social media platforms, and Snapchat is no exception. Brands can partner with influencers who have large followings on Snapchat to promote their products or services. These influencers can create sponsored content that showcases the brand in a positive light and encourages engagement from their followers.
3. Geo-filters
Snapchat allows users to create custom geo-filters that can be used by others in specific locations. Businesses can create custom geo-filters that are branded and feature their logo or message. These geo-filters can be used at events, in-store, or in specific locations where the target audience is likely to be present. For example, a clothing brand could create a custom geo-filter that can be used in or around their physical store to encourage customers to share their experience on Snapchat.
4. Snapchat Ads
Snapchat Ads are full-screen, vertical video ads that appear between Snapchat Stories. These ads can be used to promote a product or service, drive traffic to a website, or encourage app installs. Snapchat Ads can be targeted to specific audiences based on factors such as age, gender, interests, and location, making them an effective tool for reaching the right audience.
5. Snap Map
Snap Map is a feature of Snapchat that allows users to share their location with their friends. Businesses can make use of Snap Map to promote their products or services to users who are nearby. For example, a coffee shop could offer a discount to users who are near their location, encouraging them to visit and make a purchase.
Case studies
Taco Bell
Taco Bell is one brand that has successfully used Snapchat to reach younger audiences. In 2016, Taco Bell launched a campaign on Snapchat that featured a custom le8xns that turned users’ heads into giant tacos. The le8xns was used over 224 million times in just one day, making it one of the most successful campaigns on this platform. Taco Bell also uses Snapchat to share behind-the-scenes content and special offers with its followers.
Grubhub
Grubhub, the popular food delivery service, created a sponsored le8xns on Snapchat that allowed users to decorate their snaps with food-themed stickers and animations. The le8xns was used more than 160 million times in just a few weeks, and it helped Grubhub reach a younger audience and increase brand awareness.
Gatorade
Gatorade, the sports drink brand, created a sponsored le8xns on Snapchat that allowed users to pour a virtual Gatorade cooler over their heads, just like athletes do after a big win. The le8xns was used more than 165 million times in just a few days, and it helped Gatorade increase brand awareness among younger audiences.
NBA
The National Basketball Association (NBA) has been using Snapchat to reach younger audiences for several years. This league has created custom geo-filters that can be used at games and events, as well as behind-the-scenes content that showcases the personalities of its players. The NBA has also partnered with Snapchat to create exclusive content, such as the “NBA All-Access” show, which gives fans a behind-the-scenes look at the league.
Sephora
Sephora, the cosmetics retailer, has been using Snapchat to showcase its products and offer exclusive deals to its followers. This company has created custom geo-filters that can be used in-store, as well as tutorials and behind-the-scenes content that gives followers an inside look at the company’s beauty products.
These case studies demonstrate how a variety of businesses, from food delivery services to sports leagues to cosmetics retailers, have successfully used Snapchat to reach younger audiences and increase brand awareness.
Conclusion
Snapchat can be a valuable marketing tool for businesses looking to reach younger audiences. By creating engaging content, partnering with influencers, using geo-filters, Snap Ads, and Snap Map, businesses can effectively promote their products or services on the platform. However, it’s important to remember that Snapchat is a fast-paced platform that requires businesses to be creative and stay up-to-date with the latest trends to successfully engage with users.
