With the rise in popularity of technology, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, small business owners are coming to understand the importance of digital marketing to reach more customers. Though print ads are still viable, digital marketing on online platforms will expand your reach of customers and educate your target audience on your products and services. But where exactly should small businesses start?

The world of digital marketing isn’t the easiest, but there are certain aspects of digital marketing that small businesses should focus on to make their marketing budget go further. Here are some digital marketing tips for small businesses: 

  • Social Media. Take advantage of the different social media channels to connect with your audience. This way, you can engage with customers the same way you would face-to-face. Social media also gives businesses a unique yet intimate way to educate consumers on your products and any promotions, giveaways, or offers you’re currently offering. 
  • Search Engine Optimization (SEO). SEO helps your business show up on the first page of a Google or other Search Engine search. By optimizing your keywords, referencing other external sites, and localizing your search (adding keywords that reference your specific location), you can reach more people looking for a business like yours. SEO will put you way ahead of your competition– especially if they aren’t using these strategies! 
  • Website Optimization. Spend some time updating and improving your website. Remember, your website is the online “home” for your business and is often the first impression most customers will see! Make sure your website has updated information with modern fonts, videos, and photos (using dated graphics and fonts will steer people away!). You’ll also want to check the speed on your website to make sure things are loading quickly– the longer it takes, the more likely people are to leave your site. And try to have tons of relevant content on your website: blogs, videos, infographics, and/or ebooks are great examples of content marketing that will attract people to your site. 
  • Google My Business (GMB) and Reviews. Reviews are extremely important– a study showed that 86% of consumers read business reviews, and 91% of 18 to 34-year-olds trust online reviews as much as a personal recommendation. Keep your reviews and your GMB presence updated with your hours, new photos, descriptions, and offers. If you get a negative review, try to handle it graciously by politely yet quickly responding. 

Mountain South Media, a division of The Smoky Mountain News, is a full-service digital marketing agency. We use our nearly 20 years of experience to ramp up our clients’ online and mobile marketing by creating a focused digital marketing plan to achieve results that are right for your business. Your online marketing specialist is one click away; contact us to get started today!