It helps connect directly with fans and get a message or information out to them or to your targeted audience.  That’s the biggest benefit.  It can also help you reach potentially new readers and gain a better exposure, which is something that every indie author needs.  From time to time I will get messages that encourage me or inspire me to get some writing done, but other than that it doesn’t help me with the actual writing process.  Social media can be a detriment as well if you get sucked into the black hole; you can spend countless hours reading what people have to say and that can distract you from the matter at hand…writing.