Online marketing is an interesting field in that it’s continually getting more effective while at the same time growing in complexity. There are more ways than ever before to profit from a strong web presence, but it’s also easier to waste your time and money on the wrong tactics or strategies.
These competing facts can make it difficult for business owners and executives who just need to start generating some positive momentum on the internet. What they want aren’t complicated ideas or online marketing fads, but proven strategies that deliver a high return on investment month after month.
We think those are always the best strategies to start with. Why not put your time and money where it’s most likely to have the biggest effect? And so today, we want to give you a brief glimpse at five online marketing tactics that have delivered big returns for our clients, not to mention thousands upon thousands of businesses across the country…
#1 Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Google currently handles more than 4 billion searches per day. What’s more, the search engine has effectively killed off the Yellow Pages and other print directories, replacing them as the main source of information for buyers who are seeking local businesses.
Knowing that, it only makes sense to try to make your company as visible as possible on Google. That way, you can introduce yourself to dozens or hundreds of new potential customers every day.
#2 Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising
PPC advertising gives you all the advantages of a high Google ranking, along with the flexibility to start, stop, or change your ad campaigns at any given moment.
The downside to PPC advertising, of course, is that you’re paying for each visit that comes to your website. However, by creating tightly-focused and efficient accounts, you can reduce those costs dramatically, to the point that internet ads can be incredibly profitable and efficient.
#3 Social Media Marketing
Social media marketing is a relatively new discipline, even for those of us in the web design industry. It presents a unique challenge because most people log on to Facebook or Twitter for fun, rather than to find products or companies.
However, you can use social media to build a brand, connect directly with customers, and spread positive reviews and feedback. Plus, you can create viral campaigns that reach contacts who aren’t even in your network.
#4 Reputation Management
When someone is deciding whether to work with you or not, they’ll often turn to Google, Yelp, or a specialized industry site to look up reviews and customer feedback first. What they find can make or break the business relationship quickly.
Reputation management is the art of encouraging buyers to leave great reviews for your business and making sure those are distributed throughout the web. It costs very little and is extraordinarily effective.
#5 Email Marketing
Email marketing can seem simple, and even pointless, in today’s search and social-driven world. However, email is inexpensive, completely customizable, and delivers consistent returns.
The trick with email is to organize your lists, messaging, and campaigns in a way that generates results rather than annoying customers. Get that right and you’ll have a cheap and reliable source of new revenue that can last for many years to come.
These aren’t the only five online marketing techniques you can use, of course, but they are the ones you should start with if you’re looking to establish yourself on the web. They are also the five ways of attracting customers online that you should definitely try if you haven’t already.
Why not get expert assistance with your web design and online marketing challenges? Contact our team today to set up a free website review and see how we can help!