What does “Social Commerce” mean in the context of social media?

Social Commerce involves using social media platforms to facilitate buying and selling products. It combines social interactions with e-commerce, allowing businesses and influencers to showcase and sell products directly through social networks like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

This trend capitalizes on the social experience, enabling users to make purchases based on recommendations, reviews, and seamless browsing within the app, without being redirected to a separate e-commerce site.

Example

I discovered this awesome skincare brand through Instagram’s Social Commerce feature and bought it right from their profile.

What are ways to use “Social Commerce” on social media?

Brands and creators can set up shops within platforms like Instagram and Facebook, where users can browse and buy products without leaving the app. It’s a seamless experience that integrates product discovery with social interaction.

Social commerce can also involve influencer partnerships, where influencers promote and sell products directly through social media, often in the form of affiliate links, shoppable posts, or live stream events.

Pro Tip

To maximize your social commerce strategy, optimize your product listings with high-quality visuals and compelling descriptions. Make it easy for your followers to shop by linking to your products in your posts, stories, and bio.

Related Terms

E-commerce, Shoppable Posts, Social Selling, Influencer Marketing, Direct-to-Consumer Sales