Budding and established business entrepreneurs in Kwara State gathered on Wednesday for a summit aimed at empowering them with skills to leverage social media for business growth. The event, titled "Innovate to Expand," was organized by Drea Speaks Consult and attracted young entrepreneurs from various industries, including banking, telecommunications, event planning, catering, graphic design, and fashion.

Key Takeaways

• Customer Service is Crucial: Understanding customer behavior is essential for business growth.
• Consistency is Key: Regular engagement on social media can significantly enhance visibility and customer interaction.
• Marketing Matters: Effective marketing and branding are vital for business success.
• Innovation Drives Growth: Entrepreneurs should continuously innovate and adapt to market changes.
• Funding Opportunities Exist: There are resources available for small businesses to secure funding and guidance.

Importance of Customer Engagement

During the summit, Mr. Dare Kolawole, the convener, emphasized the necessity for entrepreneurs to take customer service and social media engagement seriously. He stated, "Growth is like blood running through the veins of any business; if your business is not growing, it’s not alive." He categorized customers into three types:

1. Aggressive Customers: Often angry without reason; respond calmly.
2. Assertive Customers: Seek detailed information; provide clarity.
3. Passionate Customers: The easiest to sell to; nurture these relationships.

Leveraging Social Media

Mr. Kolawole urged business owners to build systems of appreciation and highlighted the importance of a consistent digital presence. He noted, "Social media is a free tool that works, but only if you use it consistently. Technology is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity for business survival in the coming years."

Marketing and Branding Insights

Hajia Oladunni Kafilah, a marketing expert from the Ilorin Packaging Hub, shared her insights on the significance of marketing, packaging, and branding. She stated, "Without marketing, your business cannot thrive, no matter how much money you have. It is not the best products that sell; it’s the most marketed ones."

She encouraged entrepreneurs to:

• Develop a clear marketing strategy.
• Understand the type of marketing needed at each business stage.
• Always plan with future growth in mind.

Stories of Resilience and Innovation

Hajarah Jibril, the Creative Director of Hajjewels House of Styles, shared her journey of building a fashion brand with limited resources. She emphasized that passion and innovation are crucial for long-term growth. "There were times I had nothing but a machine and little knowledge, but passion kept me going," she recounted.

Jibril encouraged business owners to:

• Continuously improve their skills.
• Approach their work creatively.
• Build their brand and network effectively.

Funding and Support for Entrepreneurs

The seminar also included a session on funding opportunities for business owners, led by Mr. Michael Okolie from the Bank of Industry. He explained how development financial institutions can support small businesses and startups. "Sometimes, people don’t even need the money; they need guidance," he said, urging attendees to get their businesses registered and investment-ready.

In an interview, Mr. Kolawole highlighted the common issue of business owners failing to meet customer expectations. He called for greater utilization of social media, technology, invoicing, and networking to foster business growth. He also urged the government to support educational summits that equip entrepreneurs with strategies for brand expansion and business success.

Sources

• Kwara business owners empowered on use of social media for business growth, Tribune Online.