This is a question we have been forced to ask over the past few weeks and months, but perhaps it’s long overdue? Digging down to core values and understanding what stories your business is telling can be key in providing valuable resources and services to keep your clients connected.

And just as importantly, where are you sharing these messages? Are you reaching the right audiences? How can you measure results? 

Read on, friends. 

Often in tough economic times, marketing budgets are the first things to go. But with social distancing keeping us only virtually connected with friends, family, colleagues and customers, now more than ever is when you should lean into digital marketing.

Here are a few reasons why:

    1. Speed. Unlike traditional media, campaigns can be up-and-running quickly, plus they are flexible to work with rapidly changing business needs.
    2. Cost-effective. With such a variety of service offerings available, there is more than likely an effective solution that can accommodate your budget—be that $200 a month or $2,000+.
    3. Trackable. Know what kind of impact your ad dollars are having—how many eyeballs have seen your content, how many times your website has been visited, what your conversion rate is. Not only do these insights help you to understand your audiences now, it can help you plan for future campaigns also. Data is powerful.
    4. Targeted. A great brand message is only as good as the people who see it. Every webpage we visit and every ad we click on provides valuable insight into behaviours, interests and purchasing intentions that can help target your ideal audiences. 

If you’re thinking, “This all sounds great, but how?” then we’ve got you covered. Here are some of our top suggestions to up your digital game:

Search 

People are spending more time online. You can reach them through paid search (SEM) or by adding content to your website to support your ongoing SEO campaigns

If you haven’t claimed your Google My Business listing, you can do it now. Also, consider updating your hours of operation or any service or product changes here. 

Social Media 

With people spending more time on social media, this is the time to be present and engaged. Share any messages about the services you offer—or if there are limitations, link to e-commerce channels.

Display Advertising 

Advertising your local business on a community media site puts your message in front of hyper-local users with a high level of engagement. 

Guidedby Listings

Add your free Business Profile to GuidedBy, our community directory site. People also have a need to balance the news with hopeful and inspiring content about their neighbourhoods. 

We’re here to help, so get in touch with us to talk about how we can support your business.