In this day and age, there are SO many avenues to advertise your business that it can be incredibly overwhelming to figure out what you should use. Lucky for you, we’ve chosen the top 4 that we think are worth your while. (plus, they’re all FREE!)
1. Instagram
With more than 800 million users worldwide, Instagram is one of the most popular social networking sites out there -- and for good reason. Because it’s such a visual platform, it can help form personal connections with your customers. When a consumer sees photos and videos of others being happy, warm and inviting, they’re going to chase how to accomplish that feeling too, whether in-person at your place of business, or by purchasing your product online.
Did we mention the average user spends 53 minutes on the platform? Yep – almost an hour A. DAY. And 83% of users say they discover new products, businesses and services for the first time on Instagram. It’s now or never folks! Don’t miss the boat on this one.
2. MailChimp
We prefer Mailchimp over other email marketing software for a few reasons. First, it’s free to sign up, and will continue to remain free as long as you stay under 2,000 subscribers. Surpass that? Monthly memberships start at $9.99… less than the price of your regular order at Starbucks.
Second, it’s easy to use. Sure, you can add the bells and whistles and custom code a website header into the intro (Olivia’s specialty), but for the most part, if you’re looking for a user-friendly way to send out e-newsletters, this is a great option for you.
Email marketing continues to prove more effective than social media. You heard that right! Email acquires customers nearly 40 times that of Facebook and Twitter combined. Please ensure you are doing this regularly! It helps us sleep at night.\
3. TikTok
Wait, what? Did they just say TikTok?? You better believe it. TikTok has more mobile app downloads than YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp, making it the 3rd most downloaded app globally. And it makes sense. 75% of marketers claim they see a much higher engagement response when they post video over photo. Plus, 84% of consumers say that they’ve purchased a product or service after watching a brand’s video.
All these numbers are great, but the real reason we’ve been recommending TikTok to clients is that it’s a huge way to showcase your brand. As a video-only service, consumers are seeing you and what you have to offer in an engaging, consistent and professional light. And who doesn’t want that?
3. Google
How’s your Google business listing looking these days? Have you ever even looked at it? DID YOU EVEN KNOW YOU HAD ONE?? We have found that business’ Google listings are one of the most neglected pieces in their marketing toolbox, which is too bad considering it’s estimated that 63,000 search queries come through EVERY SECOND. Keeping your listing in tip top shape is such an important part of capturing organic traffic to your website and/or brick and mortar store. That means making sure you have a high-resolution logo and photo cover, accurate contact information, a working website link, your business description and an accurate list of services. If you’re a restaurant, better make sure your up-to-date menu is uploaded as well.
Go ahead, Google your business and see what comes up. If you’re brand new and need help getting your listing set up, or you’ve been around for awhile and have no idea how to access your account – we can help!
There you have it, your marketing plan all wrapped up in one blog post. There are certainly other worthwhile platforms out there, but if you get a handle on these four to begin with, you’ll be in great shape!