Here are five trends, and the ways businesses can make sure they are making the most of their online presence this year.
The online space is constantly evolving with new updates, new platforms and changing consumer patterns, all of which result in tons of opportunities to have your business found online. Businesses should have a plan that identifies their customers, their goals, and the strategies on how to achieve them. This plan should be reviewed frequently to measure results and identify, and capitalise on, these opportunities.
Here are five trends, and the ways businesses can make sure they are making the most of their online presence this year:
1. People research everything… and want it now
People expect to find out what they need straight away and are more likely to engage with customised information based on where they are, their demographic, and their stage of the consumer journey. An example of the rapidly changing online world is the way consumers now research everything online – from cars to toothbrushes. Picking up a device and researching the information you need is so easy these days, and it turns out there’s no decision too small to research. In 2019, 59% of shoppers surveyed say they research online before they buy to ensure they are making the best possible choice. Mobile queries for “Where to buy ____ near me” have also grown by over 200% in the past two years, proof that the impatient consumer is making decisions faster than ever before and expecting to act on those decisions instantly.
Top tip: Make sure your Google My Business listing is claimed, verified, completed and up to date – and check on it every six months. This listing is an easy way for customers to find your website and contact information including your physical shop address if you have one. It’s completely free and is “Online Marketing 101” in terms of first steps.
2. Make it phone friendly
For businesses out there who think their customers only view their website on a computer, think again. More than half of all global website usage now comes from mobile devices, and that number will only continue to grow. As of 2020, nearly 70% of global smartphone owners will use their device to access the internet. This figure has grown by nearly 20% in just 5 years.
Top tip: Your online presence should be designed for mobile interactions, with the correct types of information included to be found easily on a mobile device.
3. It’s not all about the likes
When it comes to social media, it’s easy to get caught up in how many people ‘like’ your page. However, it’s important to think about what you want social media to achieve for your business, and where it sits in the sales funnel. If you are worrying primarily about the number of likes, then you may need to switch your focus. Instead, start putting more priority on the reach, engagement and conversion rates.
Top tip: Engage with your audience, and reply to all comments and messages. This will help you improve your brand’s reputation and build a loyal community.
4. Artificial intelligence isn’t just for the future
It can be easy to think of artificial intelligence as a concept for ‘the future’ but the use of artificial intelligence (AI) is growing, particularly in the form of advanced customer targeting. There are already many ways to use AI in online ad platforms like Facebook and Google. These include tools such as interest targeting, like remarketing, lookalike audiences and automated bidding.
Top tip: Make the most of advanced online ad targeting features to ensure you’re reaching an audience that is most likely to engage.
5. Get started
It’s hard to believe, but there are still plenty of businesses out there that haven’t made a start online. If you haven’t yet taken the plunge, or have only dabbled in an online presence, it’s time to take it more seriously. This may take the form of upskilling, hiring someone in your business with digital marketing skills, or working with an online marketing agency.
Top tip: Consider your online presence as an essential part of your marketing strategy, rather than an optional add-on.
Whether your business sells holidays, socks, or a service, you need to be using online tools to market your business.
Get in touch with Dubzz Digital Marketing to find out how, and for a free consultation.
