Today, it’s all about branding and making others aware of your business. Along with networking and word of mouth, engaging in social media platforms is another great way to connect with and build a stable client base.
But first, it’s crucial to understand how Chinese social media platforms differ from those in America and the rest of the world. To understand Chinese social media, you must first become aware of their internet policy and how the government monitors and manages usage.
What is the Great Firewall of China?
The Great Firewall of China is an internet-filtering system that blocks news sites and social media platforms that’s outside of the country. This regulation blocks sites such as Google, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter, among many others. The Chinese government also blocked Messenger, which is a messaging system owned by Facebook and often used for marketing.
What does this mean for expanding or new businesses?
Established companies in the United States looking to use their ready-made online platforms to gain followers across continents will meet with roadblocks. Aside from constructing new marketing strategies to target a new customer base, already established companies will have to create new websites and social media platforms to engage with their audiences.
Upstart businesses will have more on their plates as they will need to create everything from scratch by following the country’s internet regulations.
What can businesses do to get a head start?
Business owners and entrepreneurs planning to invest in the Chinese market will benefit from having a solid plan in place. A plan consists of a business formation that is necessary to set up early documentation, consider liability options and creating contracts. Once the foundation is set, social media marketing strategies and how to best connect with your future Chinese customers will be the next task to tackle.