Do you ever get the sinking suspicion that the online marketing advice you’re getting isn’t quite as sharp, informed, or customized as it could be?
That can put the average business owner in a bind. That’s because most aren’t experts in the fields of web design, search engine optimization (SEO), internet advertising, or social media. Each of these is becoming more important than ever to attracting new customers, so it isn’t smart to ignore them. However, it’s just as bad to spend time or money on campaigns that aren’t showing any results.
If you feel like you might be caught between a rock and a hard place when it comes to getting your web strategy together, we are here to help. Let’s look at five clear signs you might need better online marketing advice than you’re currently getting…
#1 Your Website Isn’t in Great Shape
Any experienced web designer is going to know that your site is the centerpiece of your online marketing activities. If it looks tired, or isn’t compatible with mobile devices (as examples) they should be advising you to fix these problems right away.
A bad or underwhelming website is a sure sign you should be getting better advice from your creative partner.
#2 You Aren’t Getting Any Leads or Sales from Google
Some websites look great aesthetically but aren’t doing much for the business owners who rely on them to generate leads or sales. That’s an even bigger problem than a bad design.
There are a lot of reasons a website can suffer from a lack of visibility on Google, but they are all relatively easy to identify and fix. So, if customers aren’t coming to your business from search engines it’s time to make a change.
#3 It’s Much Easier to Find Your Competitors Online
If you feel like you have fallen behind your competitors on the web, or you know they are getting lots of revenue from their online activities and you aren’t, consider it a huge warning.
A good web design team won’t just take note of what the competition is doing, they’ll work to keep you one or two steps ahead. It’s hard to make up ground on the internet after you have fallen behind everyone else, so it’s best not to be in that position for very long.
#4 You Aren’t Sure Where Your Marketing Budget Goes
We are constantly amazed at how many business owners come to us and explain that they don’t know where their monthly or quarterly fees are going.
A good web design team is going to keep you involved in the process of planning and executing your online marketing campaigns. What’s more, they are going to show you exactly what you’re getting for your money so you can see the value in setting your budget. If you aren’t getting that kind of service, or those explanations, look elsewhere for help.
#5 You Don’t Know What Your Online Reputation is Like
Many in the business community think that online marketing really comes down to having a good website and bringing potential customers to it. That’s a big part of the equation, of course, but there is still more to do.
If your online reputation – the sum of all the reviews and testimonials left for your business on the web – is in tatters, then it’s going to affect your ability to sell. A good online marketing team will ensure you know what buyers are saying about your business online and help you to shape the kind of reputation that makes your products and services stand out.
Ready to Get the Personalized Internet Marketing Advice You Need?
If you’re tired of excuses, vague ideas, or quick-fix tactics that don’t seem to pay off, then you need to find out what it’s like to work with a creative team that’s committed to your success. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and website review.