Marketing is an ever-changing world. Over-committing to one aspect while ignoring another is a sure-fire way of getting left behind. In this blog, we will detail 9 quick tips for marketing your small business. Ready?

Tip #01: Start with a compelling value proposition.

Every marketing campaign should start by knowing your customer and what they want. An excellent way to start is by using something you know about them: their name, email address, Facebook account, etc. Knowing this will help you create the right messaging around why people would buy from you instead of someone else. When starting, it's essential to offer something of value for free such as a video, demo, or other short content. Offering value is the key to getting your marketing message in front of potential customers and building trust before committing to anything.

Tip #02: Keep it concise.

Marketing messages need to be able to cut through the noise and get people's attention quickly. To do this well, it's crucial to have a strong message first before figuring out how long it should be. The more you can say in fewer words, the better chance there is of your statement being seen by potential customers. But don't sacrifice quality for quantity - use creative marketing messages that are short and to the point. Use slogans or phrases you can repeat in your marketing - this is what people will remember about your brand.

Tip #03: Target specific customers.

Crafting a marketing message with the right target audience is crucial. The more specific you get, the better your chance of getting your message in front of them and stirring up some interest. For example, if I were selling sneakers to teenagers who are part of social media organizations like Facebook groups for runners or soccer players, I would make sure they see my Facebook posts about running shoes and soccer cleats.

If you're targeting a specific age group (such as teenagers), be mindful of how to reach them in the places they hang out most - Facebook, YouTube, etc. Make sure your marketing message is also targeted for that age group - don't use a Facebook ad that features an older man talking to teenagers, for example. This is one of the hallmarks of good marketing: being targeted in both message and medium.

Tip #04: Use social media platforms as they are meant to be used.

There's no point in only using Facebook or Twitter as a marketing method and not using the other. Facebook is great for getting your message in front of people on their Facebook feed, while Twitter can be used to get more exposure if you have an account with many followers and targeted tweets. Don't use social media platforms just because they exist - know what each one does best.

Tip #05: Use Facebook apps to your advantage.

Facebook has many ways you can use its app for marketing purposes, including the ability to create custom audiences based on Facebook pixels and more. Facebook is a goldmine of information - it's essential not to post updates that people will see in their feed but to make sure Facebook knows who your target market is and where they are spending their time on Facebook. This will help you get in front of potential customers as well as those people who are like-minded, which makes it easier for them to be interested in what you have to offer.

Tip #06: Use Google Analytics for marketing.

Facebook and Twitter can be great marketing tools, but they are just a part of the bigger picture. Using Google Analytics to track your customers' movements on your site lets you know where people go when they do business with you and what content is most effective in driving conversions.

Tip #07: Be creative.

It's important not to just throw out the same marketing message again and again. Make your messages creative - for example, you might want to use an emoji or gif that goes along with what you're trying to say, so it catches people's attention more easily.

Tip #08: Be persistent but not overbearing.

As a small business, it can be hard to get people's attention - especially when they're constantly bombarded with messages from other brands. Don't bombard customers with marketing emails or Facebook posts every day but make sure you don't go too long without reaching out to them either.

Tip #09: Be grateful.

Thanking customers for their business is a good thing, especially in today's world where people are quick to complain and not praise. If you receive positive feedback on Facebook or Twitter, respond with an emoticon - Facebook has many that can be used!

There are many technical details on how best to execute on your marketing plan. When you're ready, Wayne Media will be standing by. Visit our other blogs or our podcasts if you'd like more resources on effectively scaling your business. 

Talk soon. 

Rob