Four Things to Consider When Marketing for Small Business
Starting your own business is not an easy task. No matter what size of business you own, it is important to advertise your product or services and engage with the surrounding community. Here is a list of four strategies that you can employ when marketing for your small business.
Research and know your customers
There is no better approach for marketing a business that actually understand your customers and offer them what they actually need. Talk to them, know who they are, what they do, what they are looking for. Look for demographic and behavioural data, read what they are telling about you in your call centre or online. This will help you to shape better your marketing plan and be more assertive when designing strategies and implementing activities.
Establish and invest in your online presence
Your online presence is often the first impression your company has on potential customers. Make sure your website is well designed, easy to navigate and optimised for search engine optimisation (SEO). Visitors should not have to search to find your store’s address or how to contact you. In addition to that, evaluate which social media channels are the right ones for your type of business and assign someone to do a follow up and content generation for these social media accounts. Social media is a good way to gather feedback from your customers and let them know you are listening so don’t forget to answer them and use their insight as ideas for your business.
Host an Event
Consider hosting an event to let your local community know about you or any new product you might have. Events are a great way for retail business and restaurants increase word of mouth. Invite the community and offer a discount for all products purchased at the event, you could even invite a local news writer or social media guru to cover the event and help spread the word about your business.
Get Out and Meet People
Go to nearby markets, craft fairs and other community events. Introduce yourself and hand out flyers to everyone you meet. Make a good impression on the community and they will be more likely to support you. Join the local business chambers, be part of your industry networks and activities and leverage the power of networking by finding ways to partner with other business.
Marketing for a small business is challenging, but with the right approach it can yield great results. To learn more about marketing or running a small business visit our Nationwide Super Blog.
