If you already run a small business, you likely understand that in today’s consumer climate – your online identity is equivalent to a traditional storefront. When it comes to attracting customers or piquing the interest of passersby, you have to rely on your website and social media presence. Most people shop for the majority of the products and services they buy online, so it is critical that you pay close attention to cultivating the kind of digital footprint that will make you stand out from the crowd. Here are a few tips to point you in the right direction and help you see improved results fast.
Make sure your planning and production processes are solid
First things first, get your books in order. All the flashy marketing material in the world isn’t going to get you anywhere if you don’t have the back of the house sorted. There are tons of helpful tools now available to ensure you always have a precise count on all stock and materials and are able to deliver on your promises. It is advisable to follow strict production planning scheduling and use data analysis tools (that can help you better understand your customers). Once you have all your ducks in a row, you can start trying to push your product or service.
Invest time in a website you can be proud of
Although some businesses rely exclusively on third-party platforms to promote their products, reports show that many customers appreciate viewing and navigating a dedicated website. This shows that you are serious about what you’re doing and that you’re not outsourcing the work of promoting yourself online to someone else. Also, with all the helpful online tools readily available, you can build a smart, easy-to-navigate, and professional-looking website in a couple of hours. Simply visit a platform like Wix.com or WordPress to get started.
Ensure you’re updated and verified
It is important that you keep a close eye on all the places your business appears online and that your messaging and content is consistent throughout. Be sure to complete your Google business profile, which will give you the opportunity to share your current location, hours, services, and even some select photos with anyone who looks you up. You can also help boost your visibility in general search results by making sure your business is verified.
Share some knowledge with your customers
A great way to create a stronger connection with your customer base is to provide them with some how-to content that they can actually use. You’re obviously an expert in your field, so why not share a little bit of that industry know-how with those that support you. Not only does this give you some added expert credibility, but it also provides readymade, easy to share content that can spread like wildfire online.
Don’t underestimate the importance of an active social media presence
Whether using social media comes naturally to you or not, it is important to note that if you don’t tap into these tools, you’re missing out on a very valuable source of marketing. Even small efforts to engage with your audience will likely be rewarded, so don’t be shy about reaching out.
