- A new report by Knowledge Networks reports that 83% of the Internet population (ages 13 to 54) participates in social media, with 47% on a weekly basis.
- Participation in social media is widespread among those 13 to 54, but when asked whether they regularly turn to these sites when trying to make a purchase decision, the highest percentages among nine categories were 4%, for travel and banks/financial services.
- 63% of social media users agree that ads are a "fair price to pay" for use of these sites and features, but only 16% say they are more likely to buy from advertising brands.
- 54% "most like" staying connected to friends and family, and meeting new people, about participating in social media.
David Tice, Vice President and Group Account Director, Knowledge Networks, says "... social media users do not have a strong association between these sites and purchase decisions... they see them as being more about personal connection.
According the survey of business owners. The following assets are considered to deliver "great value" to their company's business/marketing operations:
- 52% said Corporate blogs ranked at the top of the list
- 41% of respondents said Twitter delivers "great value" to their company
- 25% named LinkedIn
- 17% listed Facebook
