Whether you are in the midst of launching a new business, or you already own one, having a strong online presence for your brand is extremely important. Do I sound like a broken record yet? I have already written and posted about this A LOT! But Digital Marketing (DM) is my jam! Did you know customers learn about local businesses online more than anywhere else?
How digital marketing will grow your brand
DM will not only create awareness about your amazing business, but it will drive sales to your website or storefront. The idea is to generate a steady flow of targeted traffic (people in your audience) that will convert into sales.
Small business owners looking to track ROI and brand awareness need digital marketing
Not only is DM a necessity for promoting your products or services, but optimizing your online assets is also crucial to your business's overall success. The popular movement of Support Small Business is a mantra we have heard loud and clear over the past few years. Many of us have grown tired of supporting impersonal, sterile environments, or lining the pockets of Jeff Bezos <eye roll>. YAY Small Shops!
Things to keep in mind as you plan to grow
Know your audience and think of them when you are making decisions about your marketing strategies. Perhaps/hopefully you don’t need to perfect that tik tok dance to reach your customers. Big companies have an easier time appealing to the masses, but for small shops, focus on what you do best for your target customer.
Accentuate your value proposition. Why would a customer choose your product or service over your competitors? Show your point of differentiation and why your business is special and unique. For example, you offer organic honey that is unique to your region that people can’t find anywhere else. That's something to talk up when it comes to your digital marketing.
Which avenues of digital marketing should you use?
How long do you have? I’ll give you a few ideas.
Email Marketing! Yes, yes, don’t roll your eyes. You CAN do this! Sign up for a platform like Mail Chimp or Omnisend. You can reach out periodically, but consistently when you have something to say i.e. new product or service, a promotion, or news about your industry. If you want to know more about email marketing, please refer back to my previous blog post.
Promote your business on social media - 4 billion people are on social media and it grows every day. So why not find your customers where they are spending time. Driving traffic to your website can be done easily through social media marketing (SMM). You can incorporate paid ads (on Social or Google) which will expand your reach without breaking the bank.
If you feel overwhelmed, start small and go slow. Once you get the basics down pat and learn more about your audience’s habits, you can grow from there.
Fantastic Reasons To Support Small Business (As if I need to tell you)
Small business employment make up 70% of Canada’s workforce
Our communities are more special and unique when we foster the growth of locally owned businesses
Doesn't it make more sense to keep money in the economy you live in? No brainer
Independently-owned businesses offer better service. It’s their livelihood and they want customers to return.
Hats off to you, small business owners who are grinding 24/7. You really are the backbone of our economy and you continue to make sure our communities thrive.