why digital marketing is so important to SMEs
When small businesses get started, their focus is often on how to get the first customers through the door. They may rely on traditional forms of advertising, such as print ads, coupon mailers or even outdoor advertising. Businesses may believe that since they offer a good product or service, it’s just a matter of time until customers find their way to them.
While this strategy may bring in a steady flow of business, there is a better, easier way and more cost effective way. Small businesses should consider the global marketplace of prospects online and benefit from converting their traditional into digital marketing. SMEs, no matter how new, should not overlook digital channels as a way to generate leads and convert interest into customers.
the benefits of online marketing
The potential customers you can find online is a much larger group than you’ll ever be able to attract only locally. By using digital marketing you can reach a large audience in a way that’s cost-effective, scalable and measurable.
Some of the key benefits of digital marketing include:
- The ability to interact with your prospects and learn exactly what they are looking for ie, getting to know your customers
- The ability to reach out to anyone and anywhere as there are no geographical boundaries
- Target the right audience at the right time – personalisation is simpler with digital marketing
- Deliver the message straight to your customers finger tips
- Communicate with your prospects at every stage of the buying process
- Save money and reach more customers for less
- Get to know your audience and drive engagement to create brand loyalty. Get some inspiration from the power of customer loyalty schemes.
- Track and monitor responses to your marketing efforts easily and instantly
getting started on digital marketing
Digital marketing can seem intimidating with multiple opportunities if you’ve never used it in business before. There are a variety of channels and marketing terminology that may make it seem like a bigger project than it is.
SMEs may believe they don’t have the time or money to compete online. As a result, many prefer to take things slowly and stick with one or two forms of traditional advertising, assuming that their business will evolve as time passes.
Word of mouth and recommendations can help drive traffic but it will only take you so far. Customers could struggle to find your business unless you show up in the places they spend time. In a recent survey the average time spent browsing online in the UK was over 6 hours a day, you cannot ignore this.
It doesn’t make sense in delaying building an online presence. You don’t have to promote your business to the world you can effectively target a local area if you wish to. Digital marketing is scalable, quick, cost effective and can be high targeted. Don’t delay start the conversation today.