Marketing today is very complex. Folks still listen to the radio, they still read newspapers, and they are involved in social media. So, what’s a business owner to do when it comes to marketing? Is it possible to be in all of these places? Each community is different and your audience is as unique as your business is. Through trial and error you will find what works best for you and your business.
Radio
Folks still listen to local radio. Contact someone at your local radio station to see what your potential reach is. If you feel the demographics match with your business, by all means, give it a shot. Connect with someone in your area that may have a business similar to yours, they could give you insight as to how radio has worked for them.
Newspapers
Newspapers are in the news a lot. Many have online access as well as “real” newspapers to purchase. Print media, in general, has really changed the past five years. You may want to consider the demographics of your area. Communities that are home to older folks, do have more people purchasing actual newspapers than areas that have younger populations. Again, it’s worth a try, as newspapers offer another avenue of reaching your customers.
Twitter is a social media platform that allows you to share your experience and interact with others in 140 characters or less. Photos work great on Twitter and offer another tool of engagement. Most importantly, interact and engage with your followers. Social media was never designed to be a selling platform. This may or may not surprise you, but the fastest growing audience on Twitter is adults age 55-64.
Facebook has been in the news a lot lately, as Facebook Business pages have been around a long time. It is true, Facebook is not showing every fan that likes your page, your status updates. You will need to make some effort to be creative and remind all of your customers in person or through an e-mail blast to be sure to visit your Facebook Business page. Paid posts are also proven to work for many business owners.
Patrick Palmer, of The Computer Guy, has had great luck with paid posts through Facebook.
Have you found your ideal marketing mix? Chances are, that once you think you have found it, your business is changing and growing. It’s important to remember that traditional marketing still matters and social media will plan an important role as you move forward with your business. Keep in mind that Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ are just three small slices of social media marketing. If you don’t try, you will never what would have worked. Dig in, make things happen, and watch your business grow.
I’d love to hear about your experience. How are you reaching your customers and are you changing things up as you see needed?