Sydney jewellery maker Nikita Majajas says she wouldn’t be in business without social media. The one-woman enterprise credits Instagram for transforming the designs crafted in her garage into a global brand.

Originally a fun way to share images, Ms Majajas says social media progressed to being the primary platform for her business, Doodad + Fandango.

“I couldn’t afford to pay for advertising or rent a shopfront. But Instagram has allowed me to cut out the middle man and reach a global audience. The label is now taking off in the US and the UK and I wouldn’t have been able to achieve any of this success without social media,” Ms Majajas said.

“Instagram allows me to build trust in the brand by telling a story and showing the face behind the product to create consumer awareness and connect with influencers, which converts to sales down the track.”

Ms Majajas will share her insights, tips and online marketing experiences at the City of Sydney’s Small Business Digital 101 seminar on Wednesday 27 March at Customs House.

Joined Ms Majajas at the seminar is Peter Manettas, director of Manettas Seafood Market, a successful online platform that connects seafood suppliers with consumers.

Mr Manettas believes social platforms “make good business sense”.

“It’s about your presence, testing the waters and making connections – it’s just like attending a function to meet new customers and people in your industry.

“The best way to connect with potential customers on social is to set up an account and start posting. It doesn’t matter if you make mistakes – even mistakes can start a conversation. It’s all part of the learning experience,” Mr Manettas said.

“The smart thing to do is explore your online options, don’t put all your eggs in one basket and don’t spend too much money until you understand what you’re doing.

“Social media is not a quick fix. Your online presence has got to be backed by a business plan, a quality product and your own vision, drive and desires. Having a good website is crucial because the user experience is everything.”

City of Sydney focuses on social platforms to push small business growth

Lord Mayor Clover Moore understands the importance of using these platforms to share updates from the City and uses Instagram to show residents what she is doing as Lord Mayor.

Cr Moore said the seminar will show small business owners how to use social media and digital platforms to engage new audiences.

More than 80 per cent of businesses in the City of Sydney are small businesses, employing over 100,000 people.

“These free seminars are an excellent opportunity for small businesses to learn how to get the most out of their social platforms to help build their brand and their business,” said Cr Moore. “Growth in this sector is great for Sydney, and I hope insights on using online platforms to advertise assist them in growing their business.” 

Small Business Digital 101 seminar – how to improve sales through social media is on Wednesday 27 March, 6pm to 9pm at Customs House, Barnet Long Room, Circular Quay. The seminar is free, but bookings are essential.

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