Rumor Has It that Snapchat Spreads the Word for Businesses

The mobile app allows users to send photos or videos – essentially, an app for texting.

The catch?

“Snaps” delete seconds after opening. For the everyday user, snaps are unedited selfies, or short-term visual messages. The social network has been a hit for 13 to 25 year olds. In December, Snapchat turned down a $3 billion acquisition offer from Facebook after receiving 20 million users. Marketers are jumping aboard Snapchat’s bandwagon to communicate with a young audience!

Businesses use Snapchat for promotions, sneak peeks of new products and behind-the scene glimpses. 16 Handles was one of the first companies to use Snapchat for marketing. The frozen yogurt company snapped coupons that people waited to open until paying since snaps delete automatically. Receivers did not know how much their coupon was worth prior to reaching the register. 16 Handles coupons were usually between 16-100% of the total sale. The fan base could return messages to earn more perks.

I never considered using Snapchat until I connected with my favorite companies. Snapchat is an innovative platform to expose the public to your company upgrades. I have received great deals and learned about products that are not yet released.

• Exclusive perks.
• Coupons for products or services.
• Promote other social media accounts (Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest).
• Behind the scene looks into company operations.
• Reward engaged customers.

Snapchat is targeted toward young adults and teens. 77 percent of college students use the app to send 400 million messages daily. Snaps are typically raw and unedited. Polished messages would be out of place in Snapchat’s rough framework. Companies are sticking with Facebook, Twitter, and Google + to target an older audience.

• Taco Bell
• McDonalds
• 16 Handles
• Audi
• Acura
• GrubHub

In February 2014, McDonalds began utilizing Snapchat for their marketing campaign. The fast food chain initially engaged their audience through other social media platforms. Followers were driven by exclusive offers, only available via Snapchat. This included the introduction of a new product with celebrity support. Followers received an interactive tour with multiple touch points throughout the day. McDonalds introduced the New Bacon Clubhouse and promoted their Twitter account, building social media followers substantially in only months.

Social media is cost-effective and can carry new messages to a global audience. These days, everybody is connected! If you have a young audience, Snapchat may be worth considering.