Snapchat is a video messaging application where users can take photos, record videos, add text and drawings, and send them to a controlled list of recipients. (Wikipedia)

Upon downloading the app users then send pictures or short video clips known as “snaps” to one or more friends. These snaps are visible for only a few seconds. Users can write or text over the snap with a message of their choice.

Snapchat was launched in September 2011 and in this time has grown to over 100 million active users daily. (Social Media Today)

Some important numbers to note regarding Snapchat:

  • 45% are between the ages of 18 and 24.
  • 70% are female.
  • 76% purchased a product online in the past 30 days.
  • 8,796 photos are shared every second.
  • 77% of college students use Snapchat daily.
  • 58% of college students would likely purchase a product if a brand sent a coupon via Snapchat.

For companies that currently market to these demographics Snapchat would seem like a goldmine for generating new customers. However, only 1% of marketers are taking advantage of Snapchat.

The fact that snaps are only available for a few seconds creates a sense of urgency. This is what is most appealing to many Snapchat users. Businesses should be tapping into this urgency and using it to their advantage. Additionally, Snapchat users tend to come from wealthier households.

Snapchat mainly attracts a younger audience, so if your business aims at these users, you should market on Snapchat. Even if your products or services aren’t aimed at this age group, it’s worth considering this platform, as today’s Snapchat user will be tomorrow’s customer.

Visit Snapchat to learn more about the platform and to set up an account.

Follow us on Snapchat @thewordpro – we will follow you back.

See the infographic below for a bit more information about Snapchat and business marketing.

Sources:
  • http://www.businessinsider.com/snapchat-daily-active-users-2015-5#ixzz3cmPmxw5L
  • http://www.freedigitalphotos.net (“Smart Phone” by kibsri)
  • http://www.techinsider.io/wealthier-kids-more-likely-to-use-snapchat-2015-8
  • http://www.socialmediatoday.com/social-networks/why-your-business-needs-be-snapchat-infographic
  • Expanded Ramblings