Once you have set up your business, it’s time to let consumers know that you exist. The type of marketing strategies you choose will largely depend on the kind of customers you’re targeting, as they will look for and discover information in places that are the most familiar to them.
The majority of marketing strategies require trial and error to find out what is working and what isn’t, so it may be the case that you wish to experiment with different techniques to determine the best approaches for getting your message across effectively to your desired audience.
To help you with this, you can take a look at some of the recommended marketing tips below that could be valuable to your business.
Referral Networks
Small businesses, in particular, rely on both new and loyal customers to survive. However, companies must think outside of the box to earn a solid customer base, and one way to do this is through referral networking.
If you have ever turned customers away because you don’t sell what they are looking for, instead pointing them in the direction of another business who does, you should expect the same in return from that business. You may be surprised to learn that competition isn’t always to be feared; in fact, if you recommend other companies, you will hopefully have the favor returned.
Content Marketing
Digital marketing has had a hugely beneficial impact on businesses over the last few years, with almost 20% of companies claiming that content marketing has had the most positive effect on their sales figures.
If you’re new to content marketing, this technique is the process of creating and delivering content directed toward the customers, which triggers their interest and drives commercial action.
Content could range from blog posts, videos, podcasts, social media posts, and so much more. Naturally, content should be interesting and relevant to the audience, optimized for SEO, and include quality information that establishes you as an expert in your sector.
Email Marketing
As opposed to traditional fliers and posters, consumers now receive business information to their email inbox. Of course, getting people to subscribe to your business newsletter can be tricky, but if successful, it can be an advantageous way of informing them about updates, sales, and discounts that your business is offering.
Some companies even offer incentives for new subscribers, such as a one-off discount code or even cool branded gifts, which you can create at specialist sites like anthembranding.com.
Word of Mouth
Many of the best business leads are created from one customer telling another about their great experience, otherwise known as word-of-mouth marketing. This could be as simple as chatting with friends or leaving an online review detailing their experience with your brand and why people should choose you over a competitor.
People who others have recommended to use your business will develop a greater sense of trust and confidence in your corporation, which is extremely hard to come by in a crowded market.
While you cannot control how this form of marketing plays out, offering incentives is a superb way to encourage existing customers to spread the positive word, which will hopefully make them want to shop with you again in the future – as well as attract new customers.
