“I can do it myself!!” This phrase is a common one in my household at the moment as my three-year-old navigates the world of independence and a desire to learn.
It’s wonderful and frustrating beyond all reason at the same time.
Zipping up his backpack, putting on his socks, making his bed, pouring milk into his cereal bowl…the list of things he can do “all by himself” is long, and the messes/meltdowns he leaves in his wake are even bigger. Sometimes I let him do it himself, sometimes I put those darn shoes on him myself because we have to get out the door.
As a business owner, it’s OK to do things yourself, and sometimes it is better to ask for help. Just because you CAN do something yourself, doesn’t mean you should. There is wisdom in knowing when to DIY a task and when to hire an expert.
When it comes to marketing resources and strategy, it really depends on your skill and comfort level if you can do marketing yourself, or if you should call in a partner to support you.
How can small businesses use digital marketing?
If you would like to tackle marketing yourself, here is a quick list of many possible digital marketing strategies for small businesses:
- Content Marketing: This strategy focuses on producing a high-quality website, blog posts, articles, newsletters, videos, infographics, or podcasts to engage and educate your target audience.
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO): This technique optimizes your website content and structure to improve visibility in search engine results.
- Email Marketing: By building an email list and sending regular newsletters, promotions, and updates to subscribers, you can build relationships with your customers.
- Social Media Marketing: This marketing method connects brands with customers, through sharing relevant information and running targeted ads.
- Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising: If you run paid ads on search engines (such as Google Ads) or on social media platforms, it can drive traffic to your website, increase your leads, and boost sales.
- Affiliate Marketing: This marketing method encourages partnering with influencers or other businesses to promote products or services in exchange for a commission on sales.
- Online Reviews and Reputation Management: This strategy encourages satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on review sites like Google My Business, Yelp, or Trustpilot. This allows your brand to manage its online reputation effectively.
If you aren’t comfortable and confident in executing a strategy with one of these marketing methods, hiring an expert who is specialized in any one of these areas can drastically improve your success rate.
Can digital marketing really help my business?
The benefits of digital marketing for small businesses are vast. Unless your target audience is of an older generation that hasn’t adopted the internet, smart phones, and social media into their lifestyle, your business should utilize digital marketing techniques as part of your comprehensive strategy.
By establishing an effective digital marketing strategy, you will:
- Boost your brand presence and awareness.
- Share messaging that resonates and engages.
- Strengthen the relationships you have with your current customers.
- Offer your customers a method for leaving public reviews.
- Increase sales conversions.
- And more!
How do beginners start digital marketing?
If you are interested in executing your own marketing, taking a digital marketing course online is a great way to learn the basics quickly. LinkedIn Learning, Coursera are two great places to take smaller courses that teach great skills. Crafted Voice Academy offers an on-demand course on building data-driven customer personas. You can also invest in the Digital Marketing Institute’s certification programs for a deeper dive into marketing skills.
If you are a business owner who wants to focus on building your business and not on becoming an expert marketer, consider hiring a Fractional Chief Marketing Officer or a strategic communications consultant. These experts can guide your marketing efforts so you can focus on what you do best.
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How much does digital marketing cost for a small business
The investment in digital marketing for small businesses varies depending on the marketing strategy, plan, and goals. Some solopreneurs may be able to handle all digital marketing efforts on their own, and therefore their time is the only cost. (But remember, time is money!)
When considering “how much is digital marketing for a small business per month,” other businesses may have paid media as part of their strategy and therefore budget anywhere from $100-$10,000 a month on ads. Other costs may include premium subscriptions to an email platform, a Customer Relationship Management platform, website and email hosting, video production, and much more. The cost can add up quickly, so it’s important to make strategic decisions around where to put your marketing money.
Don’t Do Lonely Marketing
Crafted Voice is ready to serve as your digital marketing partner, guiding you towards a solid strategy and data-driven execution plan. You don’t have to do it all yourself! Schedule a free consultation today to learn how we can craft your story and captivate your audience!