More than 200 respondents from Hong Kong who participated in a global study revealed that almost half of Hong Kong companies are using social media for their business with much success. Some 48 per cent of respondents said they are "successfully" winning new customers through social media. Worldwide, the proportion of businesses successful in winning new customers rose by seven per cent.

The survey was conducted by Regus, a provider of office space products and services in over 1,100 locations worldwide.

Social media sites, such as Facebook and LinkedIn, are being used by companies worldwide to connect with their customers. The Regus study showed that 52 per cent of global businesses do this compared to 55 per cent in Hong Kong.

The study further revealed that some companies are even encouraging their employees to go into social media websites as companies try to create a mix of traditional and social media to reach out to their customers.