This article has been updated on March 27, 2020 to reflect the changes with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Start-up businesses often don’t set money aside for a marketing budget. I have seen companies over and over begin a business on a shoestring budget only to wonder where the customers are. Have a great idea for a business? Don’t forget to plan your marketing strategy in advance.
5 Tips to Get Your Product or Service Noticed
The list below is by no means exhaustive but these are five ways to start to get your business noticed. Some items you will be able to do yourself, while with others we recommend professional assistance.
1) Develop a professional website:
Some people are equipped to create a professional website and some try one of the “simple” plug and play templates only to be surprised that it is harder than it looks. Understand why you want a website. Is it to get more organic traffic? Is it so someone goes there when they get your business card? Websites help you create your brand and attract your target market. Whether you hire a company or do it yourself, make sure your target market and marketing message are clear, the website is easy to use and it looks professional. If you have been laid off work and need to adapt and start a business, we recommend to at least get a landing page live. You can always add to the website later on as you get a chance.
2) Social Media is a must:
While the direction social media is taking is definitely an advantage to the large, well-endowed company who can “pay to play”, the small companies still need to be on the right social media for them. Know your target market and choose your platforms wisely. Given that we are experiencing a social distancing requirement, social media is even more crucial today. Some tips to make your social media count include:
- Know your market so you choose the best platforms for you. Review the audience for Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, Snapchat and TikTok just to name a few to see which ones are best for your business. Do NOT go on all platforms and overwhelm you.
- Don’t spend a lot of money on advertising for a new business. Instead work on building an audience and cultivating relationships with potential clients.
3) Google My Business:
Some new businesses forget about this free platform. It’s a great way to stay in front of people, track link clicks on your website and phone number. You can continue to update the platform on a regular basis with new photos and information. During the time of COVID-19, Google My Business (GMB) has suspended certain features including:
- During this time no new reviews will be published to Google My Business profiles. Users will be able to post and see the reviews but they will not be publicly visible. It is still unclear on whether Google will let the reviews become public once we get through this crisis.
- Review replies have also been disabled.
- Q&As have been completely removed from profiles. All existing Q&As are not visible and no new questions will be allowed at this time.
- Adding, claiming and verifying businesses – preference is being given to health-related businesses at this time.
- Editing business information – preference is also being given to health related companies so you may see some delays in what you can and cannot do during this time.
4) Video:
Did you know that 85% of businesses use video as a marketing tool and 88% of those using video report that it gives them a positive ROI. YouTube is the number two Search Engine behind Google! Why wait on taking advantage of video for your business?
5) Cross Promotion:
Build alliances with potential strategic partners who are able to cross promote your business and you cross promote theirs. This is an inexpensive yet effective way to get the word out about your business. While you may not be able to meet with people in person right now, don’t forget to cultivate personal relationships on LinkedIn and Facebook. You can ask for a Zoom video conference or phone call to learn more about each other’s business. The important thing is to not sell but build the relationship.
While the above list is by no means complete, it gives a new business or a business that has not focused on online marketing a clear path and direction. If you need help or assistance, reach out to a professional company that is able to provide an evaluation of your current online marketing strategy and a clear direction moving forward. BCOSF Media offers a complimentary consultation of your online presence with no obligation. Set up your appointment today or contact us at (561) 276-4422.
