The Internet has presented small businesses with an unparalleled opportunity to market themselves. With a vast audience online, even the smallest business can cast a wide net. But how do you stand out in an ocean of competition? Here are seven actionable strategies to effectively market your small business online.
1. Optimize Your Website for Local SEO
Local Search Engine Optimization (SEO) focuses on increasing your business’s visibility for local search results. When someone nearby searches for your product or service, you want to be at the top of those results. Here’s how:
- Keywords: Include local keywords in your website’s content. For instance, if you run a bakery in Denver, keywords might include “Denver bakery” or “pastries in Denver.”
- Google My Business: Registering your business here will get it listed on Google Maps and enhance local visibility.
- Local Directories: List your business on directories such as Yelp, Yellow Pages, and TripAdvisor. Keep information consistent and ask for reviews.
2. Engage on Social Media
Social media isn’t just for posting photos or political views. It’s a potent tool for businesses. Here’s how to leverage it:
- Platform Choice: You don’t need to be on every platform. Choose where your audience hangs out. A fashion business might prefer Instagram, while a consultancy firm may find LinkedIn more suitable.
- Engage, Don’t Just Advertise: Answer queries, run polls, host live sessions. Engage with your audience rather than just promoting products.
- Paid Promotions: Consider investing in paid ads for a larger reach.
3. Email Marketing: The Digital Powerhouse
Email might seem old-school, but it offers an average ROI of 3800%. Here’s how to make it work for you:
- Build a List: Offer value in exchange for emails. This could be a discount or a valuable eBook.
- Regular Newsletters: Keep your audience updated with regular but non-intrusive emails. Offer value, whether it’s information, discounts, or news.
- Personalization: Tools like MailChimp or SendinBlue allow you to personalize emails. “Hi [Name]” feels much warmer than a generic “Hi Customer.”
4. Content Marketing: Offer Value
In the digital space, content is king.
- Start a Blog: Share expertise, stories, and insights. This not only positions you as an authority but also improves SEO.
- Videos: Platforms like YouTube are vast and can be leveraged to demonstrate products, offer tutorials, or share customer testimonials.
- Infographics and E-books: These can be shared on social media and can position your business as a knowledgeable entity in your sector.
5. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising
PPC (pay-per-click) allows you to place ads on search engines or social media and pay only when someone clicks on them.
- Google Ads: Appear on top of Google search results for specific keywords.
- Facebook and Instagram Ads: Target specific demographics based on interests, behavior, and more.
- Set a Budget: PPC allows you to set daily or monthly budgets ensuring you don’t overspend.
6. Leverage Online Reviews
90% of customers read online reviews before visiting a business. Here’s how you can use them to your advantage:
- Request Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews. Maybe offer a discount for their next purchase as an incentive.
- Respond to Reviews: Whether positive or negative, always respond to reviews. This shows that you value feedback and are dedicated to improvement.
- Highlight Positive Testimonials: Share them on social media or your website.
7. Affiliate and Referral Programs
Word of mouth has always been a potent tool. Take it online with these strategies:
- Referral Programs: Offer discounts or benefits to customers who refer others to your business.
- Affiliate Marketing: Partner with bloggers or influencers. They promote your product and earn a commission on every sale made through their reference.
The digital marketing offers innumerable opportunities for small businesses. By leveraging the abovementioned strategies, even the smallest enterprise can compete with larger counterparts and carve its niche. Remember, consistency is key. Whether posting on social media, sending emails, or writing blogs, staying consistent will keep your audience engaged and foster trust. If you have questions or need help with your marketing, please contact Wild River Digital. Happy marketing!
