If you’re not using mobile marketing — or if your strategy needs a face-lift — you are missing out on new business. A full 88 percent of U.S. adults now own a smartphone, and those in the millennial generation are the heaviest users, at a whopping 98 percent, according to Nielsen research. Bottom line: If customers can’t “see” you as they use their devices to browse and search, you don’t exist. With these tips, you can direct the spotlight on your small business.
Instagram it: If you know how to leverage this photo-sharing social media app, you’ll have one powerful but inexpensive marketing tool at your fingertips. Sure, you’ll want to post beautiful images of your most popular offerings. But you can also show different sides of your brand. Post brief videos and behind-the-scenes peeks. Grow your following with a fun promotion. For example, at the start of the farmers market season, hand out branded tote bags and offer a percentage off to customers who post photos of their hauls.
Up the app ante: Most major brands offer an app, but the truth is, customers tend to abandon these after a few uses. If an app makes sense for your business, make it worth their valuable phone space. It should do more than just promote — the app needs to serve a purpose, like clipping mobile coupons or tracking purchases for a loyalty program. Don’t forget to sneak in the occasional super sweet deal or freebie — such as a power bank embossed with your brand and logo — so the customer feels richly rewarded for taking the time to open your app.
Embrace Messenger marketing: Some believe social media messaging platforms such as Facebook Messenger may one day take the place of call centers. That’s why it’s important to engage now. Keep your social media content fresh, and designate someone to handle inquiries, especially during business hours. When you get pinged, whether it’s a new customer query or a complaint, be sure and close your response on a strong note: Offer a small gift. That means you’ll want to maintain a stash of planners, pens, pocket flashlights, T-shirts and commuter mugs so you’re ready to make a lasting impression when these social media customers walk in your door.
Get listed, be seen: When people are new to your city or neighborhood, they will be tapping in to their mobile devices to find you. Fortunately, a little digital housekeeping may be all that’s needed to rocket your name to the top of the list. Update the online directories at the three major search engines: Google My Business, Bing Places for Business and Yahoo Local. Claim your profiles on Yelp and Manta. Don’t forget to search for local directories, such as through your local newspaper and business clubs. Finally, take time to work through this list of online business directories.
Today, mobile marketing is a force to be reckoned with. Keep your brand on people’s minds by cultivating a strong mobile presence.