Social media has come a long way from being just a place to share photos and stay in touch. Today, it’s where businesses connect, grow, and build lasting relationships with customers. If you’re running a business in Chennai, 2024 is the year to reimagine your social media approach. Why? Because the rules have changed, and your audience is expecting more.
Let’s break it down with real-world examples and insights that matter.
1. Consumer Expectations are increasing:
Think about it: When was the last time you called customer service? Chances are, you’ve sent a DM or commented on a post instead. That’s how customers expect—quick, convenient communication on platforms they already use.
Example: During the lockdown, Hot Chips, a beloved Chennai snack chain, decided to let customers order through WhatsApp and Instagram DMs. Simple, right? Yet this small change helped them keep customers happy and even expand delivery to new areas.
If your business isn’t meeting customers where they are, someone else will.
2. Differentiating in a Very Competitive Market:
So, let’s be honest, the competition in Chennai is not easy. For a small business, whether it is a boutique, a healthcare service, or even a local café, it is very likely that the competitors are already using social media platforms.
Example: VS Hospitals changed their approach on the social network LinkedIn and started to post success stories of the patients and the doctors. This approach wasn’t only effective in building trust but it also made the brand unique. What happened? The company saw the appointment requests through their website increase by 25%.
The takeaway: So, what this means is that you have to share stories that your audience can relate with on your social media platforms. It’s not always about the hard sell, it’s about the story.
3. Video Content: The Star of 2025
If a picture worth a thousand words, imagine the power of a 30-second video. From Instagram Reels to YouTube Shorts, audiences love video content everywhere.
Example: A Chennai-based pet shop, Pawfect Pet Supplies, started sharing cute videos of pets using their products. One clip of a puppy playing with a new toy got thousands of views and boosted their sales upto 30%.
Tip: Your videos don’t need to be Hollywood-level productions. Authentic, fun, and relatable content works wonders.
4. Chennai Loves Local Content
Here’s the thing about Chennai: it’s a city with heart, culture, and tradition. Businesses that tap into this local pride can make a deeper impact.
Example: Parry’s Coffee gained a huge following by sharing Tamil proverbs in their Instagram posts and running Pongal-themed campaigns. The results? A 200% boost in engagement.
Speak the local language—literally and figuratively. It’s a surefire way to win hearts.
5. The Numbers Don’t Lie
By 2024 Tamil Nadu will have more than 8. 9 million social media users. That’s a massive audience that is willing to listen to your story.
Example: Anjappar Chettinad, one of the popular restaurant chains in Chennai changed their Instagram game by posting high quality pictures of food and fun reels. This can be seen through the results they got a increase of 35% in the online reservation.
Imagine what a properly planned and executed strategy could do for your business.
6. Targeting the Right Audience
Social media sites such as Instagram and Facebook provide you with an opportunity to do so.
Example: UrbanDesk, a coworking space in Chennai implemented ads where they were giving away free day passes. But this is where they got creative – they only targeted young professionals in certain areas. This is something that within weeks, inquiries increased by 50%.
This is because sometimes all it takes is a good strategy as far as paid ads are concerned.
7. Start Your Makeover: Easy Steps to Begin
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be. Here’s how you can kickstart your social media transformation:
Audit Your Profiles: Look at what’s working and what isn’t.
Mix Up Your Content: Post videos, share behind-the-scenes moments, and celebrate local culture.
Stay Consistent: Regular updates keep you on your audience’s radar.
Ask for Help: If social media isn’t your thing, hire someone who can make it shine.
The Bottom Line
In 2024, social media isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” It’s where your customers are—and where your competitors are, too. A fresh, engaging approach to social media can be the difference between staying relevant and getting left behind.
So why wait? Start your social media makeover today, and make 2025 the year your business thrives in Chennai’s bustling market.