Impact of Social Media Usage on Consumer Decision-Making in E-Commerce Platforms in Malawi

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of social media usage on consumer decision-making in e-commerce platforms in Malawi. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study indicated a significant impact of social media usage on consumer decision-making within e-commerce platforms. One notable finding is the influence of social media platforms in shaping consumer preferences and purchase behaviors. For instance, consumers often turn to social media channels to seek product recommendations, reviews, and testimonials from peers or influencers they trust. Moreover, social media platforms provide a space for e-commerce businesses to engage with their audience through targeted advertising, promotions, and interactive content, thereby influencing purchasing decisions. Additionally, the viral nature of social media enables the rapid spread of information about products and brands, amplifying their visibility and influencing consumer perceptions. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social influence theory, technology acceptance model and social cognitive theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of social media usage on consumer decision-making in e-commerce platforms in Malawi. Businesses should prioritize authenticity, transparency, and consumer engagement in their social media marketing strategies. Policymakers should consider regulatory measures to ensure transparency and accountability in social media advertising practices.