IT contractors may soon find they are in demand among companies attempting to improve their online presence, an expert has indicated.

Co-founder and editor of the Social Media Portal Tim Gibbon emphasised that computer-based advertising is really coming into its own.

"We have already seen a huge shift by agencies and brands to embrace social media, especially in the last five years," he explained.

Both Facebook and Twitter have really taken up their positions as the big guns of social media, Mr Gibbon suggested, with many firms keen to capitalise on their success where possible.

"Some brands are wisely beginning to integrate their social media," he continued, adding that a number of firms are cautious because they do not understand its mechanics.

Connect Insight recently discovered that just 17 per cent of internet users define online advertising as impactful and appealing, with the majority finding it intrusive and repetitive.