Digital Marketing on a Shoestring
One of the biggest challenges to a small business is trying to market itself on an equally small budget. There’s not enough time, not enough money and not enough room for error… So, which areas should you be concentrating on?
Your social media
Social media platforms are the most cost-effective and far-reaching advertising resource. You can get your brand out there in front of the right audience for pretty much free. You also have the option to pay for targeted ads if you really want to increase your traffic. You’re missing a trick if you don’t have at least one social media presence, but you need to keep it up!
Your email marketing
As well as looking for new customers, you also need to take care of your existing ones. Bringing people back, with targeted offers and promotions, is a good way of maintaining cashflow and loyal customers can be your best advertisers. More than two-thirds of consumers say that they like emails from the companies they buy from, so don’t be shy.
Content is the reigning male monarch
Your content tells your customers what you’re about, what your mission is. People want to read your story as it takes them away from sales and feeling pressured to buy. You’re connecting with them and they feel that you’re a friend, almost.
Get mobile
People shop while they’re on the bus, on the landing strip, in the bath, at a restaurant… If your site isn’t mobile optimised then they’ll swap over to your competitor, who has a nice, scrollable site with easy-to-see buy buttons.
Start off local
Your first steps should be local, as you know the area and your market. Later on, you can expand somewhat as you have more of a budget.
Find some chums
Many SMEs join up with companies offering a similar service or a complementary service. Work together to offer joint promotions and tailored offers.
Be interesting
Forget about being perfect for a few minutes and think about creating a stir about your brand. Get people talking and having fun with you – they’ll talk to you and then to their friends about you and your offerings. Job done!
