[vc_row type=”in_container” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]It’s easy to feel small when you begin to compare your small business to larger organizations. Believe me, I know. These companies have deep pockets and entire departments dedicated to helping them grow. But don’t get discouraged. There are plenty of opportunities for you to level the playing field.
Invest in good design
People make buying decisions based on appearances. They really do. If your website was designed in the 90’s it’s time for a refresh. Good design creates value in the minds of your audience. Good design helps tell your story. Good design is timeless. Think of it as an investment that begins to pay dividends immediately. You have a marketing budget, it’s time to start investing a portion of that on good design.
Start using social media
Even if you don’t get it, you need to get on it. People are checking you out on social media before they make any kind of buying decision. What message does it send if your audience can’t find you on Facebook or Twitter?
It’s time to not only get those profiles completed, but you need to start using them, daily. Don’t worry about strategy, that comes later. Just start using it.
“60% of internet users check social media before hiring a professional service firm.” – Hinge Marketing
Use email marketing
Communicate more often! I cannot stress this enough. You’re trapped in your little corner of the business world and your audiences may have forgotten about you.
Make a noise!
Put together some remarkable content and use email marketing to connect with your customers. Let them know what you’re up to and how you can help them solve their problems. Share your story and your successes. I guarantee you will drum up referrals and repeat business even after the first blast.
Crank out some content
You’re a smart cookie. Anyone who owns a business or has a stake in a companies success is smart. You didn’t get this far by thinking small. You’re a big thinker; a thought leader. Do a brain dump once in a while. Start a blog and start claiming some internet authority. Use content marketing to influence decision makers.
Try to publish something at least once a month or more often for a serious boost in internet traffic. Write about issues that matter to your audience and share it on social media. It might not be elegant at first, but you’ll soon get the hang of it.
“I may not be able to outspend you, but I can outwork you.” – Malcolm Gladwell
There is absolutely no reason why you can’t supersize your marketing and design efforts. You can even start today! Many of the examples above are very affordable, if not free. Keep in mind these strategies work best over time, so be consistent. If you’re going to go big, you need to stick with it.
Remember, I’m here for you. Contact me for a free, no-holds-barred discussion about your business. I’m more than happy to take on the big boys with you.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]