Are you prioritizing the right metrics?
As a business owner, you’re no stranger to ROI. Every expense is evaluated for performance, as it should be. But when it comes to social media, the return isn’t always as clear-cut. Is that Instagram reel actually driving sales? Are your Facebook links converting? Is your time spent on content creation worth it?
And how can you accurately measure their impact on your company and brand? Unless you know what to look for, you might be missing out on the actual value for your business.
Here are 4 steps to effectively gauge the return on your social media investment.
Define Your Purpose
First, you need to be clear on what you want from social media. Are you aiming to:
- Build brand awareness?
- Increase website traffic?
- Generate leads or direct sales?
- Improve customer retention?
For some, it’s more followers. For others, it could be increased product sales or greater web traffic. Once you’ve narrowed your focus, you’ll be able to tailor content into that niche, allowing you optimal reach and exposure (and profits!).
Set Realistic Goals
Like everything else in life, a good following isn't developed overnight. By taking time to cultivate an organic network of followers truly vested in your company and services, you’re more likely to achieve the results you’re seeking. Instead of vague hopes like “grow Instagram”, establish measurable goals such as:
- +10% follower growth per quarter
- +25% increase in link clicks
- 5% engagement rate on reels
Set goals for growth, but be flexible in your approach and willing to make changes as needed.
Track Your Progress
Let data guide your strategy, not guesswork. Examine analytics for your accounts every month (which we do for all of our clients!). Pay attention to what your audience is responding to, allowing you to develop specifically tailored content. Some brands thrive on videos and reels, while others see more success with static images and carousels.
Some key metrics to consider are:
- Reach, impressions, and follower growth
- Link clicks and landing page conversions
- DM inquiries
You won’t know unless you look at the data, so stay up to date on the progress of your channels.
Adjust as Necessary
Social media trends are changing all the time. What works today may flop tomorrow. Try following similar industry accounts for inspiration, and don’t be afraid to take risks! Your best post may be the one you haven’t created yet, so get creative and watch the likes roll in.
The Bottom Line
A solid social media platform is a must-have for today’s business owners. If you’re not advocating for your company and brand, someone else is out there reaching your potential customers instead.
Here at Officially Social, we work closely with clients to develop the most effective strategies that provide the greatest return on investment.
Questions about how we can help? Email jamie@OfficiallySocial.com anytime.


