The Real ROI of Social Media (And Why It Still Matters in 2025)

Social media isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about showing up with purpose. In 2019, over 73% of small businesses were already using social media to drive traffic, generate leads, and build meaningful relationships with their audience. That number has only grown, with billions of users now active on platforms every single day.

So if you’re wondering whether it’s still worth it to invest in your socials—here’s your answer: yes. And not just for the likes.
Here are 5 powerful ways your brand can see return on investment from a well-crafted social media presence:

1. Increase Brand Awareness + Recognition

When someone hears about your brand, their first move? A quick scroll on social. Especially for Gen Z and Millennials, your social presence is where they go to decide if you’re credible, aligned, and worth their attention.

But how do you get in front of people who haven’t heard of you yet?

It starts with showing up consistently—organically and through paid ads—on the platforms your audience already uses. With the right content and strategy, you’re able to deliver the right message to the right people at the right time.

And when that happens over and over? Brand recognition grows, trust deepens, and your community begins to form.

Here’s what the stats say:

• 90% of marketers say social media gives their brand significant exposure

• 55% of consumers discover new brands through social

• 81% of people research online before making a purchase

2. Build an Engaged Community That Converts

It’s not just about reaching more people—it’s about keeping them.

89% of people who follow a brand on social media eventually make a purchase from that brand. But getting someone to stick around takes more than just a pretty feed.

This is where value-driven content and genuine connection matter.

Think of the “Know, Like, Trust” factor. Your content builds familiarity. Your consistency builds likability. And the more human you are, the faster trust develops. That’s the moment conversions start to happen.

The stats back it up:

• 51% of marketers say building relationships directly led to increased sales

• 78% of consumers will buy after a positive experience with a brand on social media

3. Drive Traffic + Sales

Your social media presence is your digital storefront window. If your content is clear, compelling, and speaks to your ideal client, they’ll naturally want to see more—on your website, in your shop, or in your inbox.

Whether you're linking out to services or selling directly through tools like Instagram or Facebook Shopping, social media acts as your daily invitation to connect, explore, and purchase.

✨ Pro tip: Pair storytelling with strong calls-to-action to turn casual scrollers into loyal site visitors.

What the numbers say:

• 75% of people consult social media before buying

• 50%+ of marketers using social for 2+ years say it positively impacted their sales

4. It’s Cost-Effective (and Energy Smart)

Compared to traditional marketing (print, TV, radio), social media is often significantly more affordable—and more targeted. Whether you're creating content organically or investing in paid social, you can stretch your budget while still reaching the people who actually want what you’re offering.

And when you outsource social media management (or purchase content tools), you’re often getting strategy, customer service, and community care all in one.

In recent data:

• Social ranked as the most cost-effective media channel by CPM

• 63% of users expect support via social platforms

• Over ⅓ of users go to social to voice concerns or get answers

5. It Delivers Invaluable Insights

The analytics inside platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok are gold. You can gather data about who your audience is, what content they love, when they’re most active, and how they’re engaging with your offers.

This info isn’t just good for your socials—it’s business intelligence that can help you make aligned decisions across all areas of your brand.

72% of companies say they use social media insights to inform big-picture strategy—and it's easy to see why.

Let’s Wrap It Up
Social media still works when it’s done intentionally.

It’s not about posting every day—it’s about posting with purpose, listening to your people, and creating content that resonates.

Need help showing up online in a way that feels like you?
That’s what I help founders and creatives do every day inside Brandy Durst Creative—through intuitive marketing, content strategy, and done-for-you social media support.

✨ Ready to grow your brand through aligned social? Fill out the intake form here and let’s make magic.

Until then, catch me on the ‘Gram @brandydurstcreative and in the weekly newsletter.

xx
Brandy