The Top 5 Social Media Platforms You’re Not Using (But Should Be)

When it comes to social media, most small and medium business owners stick to the big players: Facebook, Instagram, and maybe Twitter. And while these platforms are undeniably powerful, they’ve become crowded spaces where standing out is harder than ever.

But here’s the thing: there’s a whole world of social media platforms out there that you might not be using—and they could be the key to reaching untapped audiences, driving engagement, and growing your business.

As someone who’s worked with many businesses to refine their social media strategies, I’ve seen firsthand how exploring lesser-known platforms can transform a brand’s online presence. So, let’s dive into five platforms you’re probably not using (but absolutely should be).

Why You Need to Diversify Your Social Media Presence

Before we get into the platforms, let’s talk about why you should care.

Most businesses stick to the same platforms because they’re familiar. But here’s the problem: when everyone is doing the same thing, it’s hard to stand out. Plus, your ideal customers might not even be spending most of their time on Facebook or Instagram anymore.

By diversifying your presence, you can:

• Reach niche audiences who aren’t active on mainstream platforms.

• Build a stronger connection with your target market.

• Stay ahead of competitors who are stuck in the same old routine.

Now, let’s explore the platforms that could be game-changers for your business.

1. Pinterest: The Underrated Traffic Driver

Why Pinterest Matters

Pinterest isn’t just a place for DIY wedding ideas and recipes—it’s a visual search engine with massive potential for businesses. In fact, 85% of users turn to Pinterest when starting a new project or looking for inspiration. That means they’re actively searching for ideas, products, and services like yours.

Best For:

• E-commerce stores.

• Creative industries like interior design, fashion, or photography.

• Any business that can showcase visually appealing products or services.

How to Use Pinterest

I worked with a small online boutique that sold handmade jewelry. They started creating Pinterest boards featuring their products styled with different outfits, along with links to their website. Within a few months, Pinterest became their top source of website traffic—and their sales increased by 30%.

Here’s what you can do:

• Create visually compelling pins with clear descriptions.

• Use keywords strategically in your pin titles and descriptions to show up in searches.

• Experiment with Pinterest Ads to target specific audiences.

2. LinkedIn: More Than Just a Job Board

Why LinkedIn Matters

If you think LinkedIn is just for job seekers, think again. It’s one of the most powerful platforms for B2B businesses, consultants, and service providers. With over 900 million users, LinkedIn is a goldmine for networking and building authority in your industry.

Best For:

• Service-based businesses.

• Agencies and consultants.

• B2B companies looking to connect with decision-makers.

How to Use LinkedIn

I once helped a marketing consultant who was struggling to find leads. We worked on optimizing her LinkedIn profile, creating thought leadership posts, and engaging in relevant groups. Within weeks, she started getting inquiries from potential clients who were impressed by her expertise.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Share industry insights, case studies, and success stories.

• Post consistently to build your credibility as a thought leader.

• Use LinkedIn Ads to target specific job titles or industries.

3. TikTok: Not Just for Teens

Why TikTok Matters

I’ll admit, I was skeptical about TikTok at first. But after seeing how brands were using it to connect with younger audiences, I was sold. TikTok’s short-form videos are perfect for showcasing your brand’s personality in a fun and authentic way.

Best For:

• Creative businesses.

• Brands targeting Millennials and Gen Z.

• Businesses with a knack for storytelling.

How to Use TikTok

One of my clients, a small bakery, started posting behind-the-scenes videos of their baking process, along with fun challenges and trends. Their TikTok account went viral, and their customer base grew significantly—people were even driving from neighboring towns to visit their shop.

Here’s how to get started:

• Create short, engaging videos that show off your personality.

• Use trending sounds and hashtags to boost visibility.

• Collaborate with influencers to expand your reach.

4. Reddit: The Community Goldmine

Why Reddit Matters

Reddit is often overlooked by businesses, but it’s one of the most engaged platforms out there. With over 100,000 active communities (called subreddits), there’s a space for almost every niche imaginable.

Best For:

• Businesses with niche products or services.

• Brands looking to build trust and authority.

• Companies that value authentic feedback.

How to Use Reddit

A friend of mine runs a custom gaming PC business. He started participating in subreddits like r/buildapc and r/gaming, offering advice and answering questions. Over time, he became known as an expert in the community, and people started reaching out to him for custom builds.

Here’s how you can use Reddit:

• Find subreddits related to your industry or niche.

• Participate in discussions and offer valuable insights (without being overly promotional).

• Use Reddit Ads to target specific communities.

5. YouTube Shorts: Bite-Sized Video, Big Impact

Why YouTube Shorts Matters

YouTube Shorts is YouTube’s answer to TikTok and Instagram Reels, and it’s quickly gaining traction. The best part? YouTube is the second-largest search engine in the world, so your content has long-term visibility.

Best For:

• Businesses that can create educational or tutorial-based content.

• Brands that already have a presence on YouTube.

• Companies looking to repurpose short-form videos.

How to Use YouTube Shorts

I worked with a fitness coach who was already creating workout videos for Instagram. We repurposed those videos for YouTube Shorts and optimized them with relevant keywords. Not only did her views skyrocket, but her website traffic also saw a significant boost.

Here’s how to start:

• Repurpose your TikTok or Instagram Reels content.

• Optimize your titles and descriptions with relevant keywords.

• Include a call-to-action to drive traffic to your website or other platforms.

How to Choose the Right Platform for Your Business

With so many platforms to choose from, it’s important to focus on the ones that align with your goals and audience. Here’s how:

1. Know Your Audience: Where do they spend their time online?

2. Define Your Goals: Are you looking for brand awareness, engagement, or sales?

3. Test and Measure: Start small, track your results, and double down on what works.

Tips for Managing Multiple Platforms

If the idea of managing multiple platforms feels overwhelming, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here are some tips to make it easier:

• Use scheduling tools like Hootsuite or Buffer to plan and automate your posts.

• Repurpose content across platforms to save time.

• Focus on consistency rather than trying to do everything at once.

Conclusion

Social media is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the curve can give your business a competitive edge. By exploring platforms like Pinterest, LinkedIn, TikTok, Reddit, and YouTube Shorts, you can reach new audiences, build stronger connections, and grow your brand in ways you never thought possible.

So, which platform will you try first? Let me know—I’d love to hear about your experience! And if you need help getting started, feel free to reach out.