Social Commerce is still a newer concept that most retailers may not have employed. In creating a social commerce strategy, there is an important distinction that should be made between Onsite social and Offsite Social. Offsite social is made up of social media brand pages or plug ins that live on social platforms and not on your actual website. Onsite social consists of adding a social layer to your actual website. The main benefit of Onsite social is that you are keeping the user on your site where they can actually convert and you can improve your site experience through this social layer. Although social commerce will continue to grow and evolve, it is clear that that onsite social commerce is extremely valuable for both retailers and consumers alike.
If you would like more info about Offsite vs Onsite Social Strategy check out our Webinar Tomorrow 11/28
Sources: Social Annex and Social Commerce Blog