“We’ve always done it that way.” Sound like a familiar phrase said by so many businesses that are no longer growing or have closed up shop? Let’s face it; we live in a rapidly changing culture. We may like the tried and true way, but new generations of buyers are entering the scene and they respond differently. If we want to capture this market and the business they can put on your bottom line, we need to adjust our way of thinking. As with anything in life, we can’t stop progress. Instead, let’s talk about how you can adapt to the growing need for affordable digital marketing services. When I started digital marketing I found an agency that really helped me.
Quick! Name one thing you always see in the hand of a young person (and a growing percentage of not so young people). If you said “cell phone,” you’re already on the path to understanding the prevalence of digital media. More and more people rely on mobile services to conduct business and manage daily life. You can handle your banking, check home rental prices, count calories, confirm doctor’s appointments and so much more, all from your cell phone. And in a fast-paced world where convenience counts, it’s doubtful that the trend will ever be reversed.
So, how does this evolving culture of communication affect your business? Truthfully, in just about every way imaginable. While it can feel like a dizzying process, it’s important to stay current on the trends, especially if you wish to reach the Millennial or Generation X audiences. Learn what your customers expect. How do they like to be notified if a product goes on sale, how do they want to receive receipts, would they like to view options and learn prices before they come to see you? Do they want to be able to link to additional information that tells them more about your services?
The options are vast, and the potential for business growth is as well. Your first step is to commit to entering the world of digital marketing services. Secondly, decide which channels might best satisfy the needs and desires of your customers, and ultimately increase your business potential. Digital marketing options are numerous and ever-expanding: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, texting, blogging, websites, apps, email announcements, digital signage, website banner ads, and so much more. (If you need a crash course on how to manage your digital marketing needs, give us a call!)
Case Study:
Recently, Edmiston Group took on the project of promoting a teacher appreciation event. Everyone likes to recognize good teachers, right? But the question was how to get the word out, collect valid nominations and track votes. Due to a comprehensive digital marketing campaign, more than 100 unique visitors submitted nominations within 48 hours.
One distinct advantage of social media marketing is that people LOVE to share worthwhile causes. Nearly every Facebook feed is evidence of this get-on-board mentality; “like this,” “share this link,” and so on. As a matter of fact, if you are effective in communicating your initial message, your audience will actually do some of the work for you and help multiply your success.
Digital marketing is here to stay, and for many businesses, it could be the difference between hanging an “OPEN” sign each day or inscribing the sad phrase, “We’ve always done it this way.” Get on board today, and put digital marketing services to work for you.
About the author: Autumn Edmiston is the CEO and owner of the Edmiston Group. The Edmiston Group is a multifaceted Pittsburgh based marketing consulting firm providing senior level marketing management services to businesses and non-profit organizations on a short or long term basis. Core areas of service are business development, marketing, strategic planning and public relations. The Edmiston Group has consistently delivered and implemented real-world, proven business marketing ideas and strategies for business growth.