It takes 5 to 7 times for someone to see your brand to build brand trust. And there are always opportunities to build trust and help them feel your service or product is the best solution for them!
In times of uncertainty, people look to others to find strength in patterns and proven pathways. Businesses need to be aware of their clients perceptions, even if clients aren’t actively booking. They are watching how businesses act over time, not just what they say in a one time social post.
Right now, people are still shopping, searching and looking for businesses online. Now is the time to get momentum, learn more about your target market and build relationships with potential clients and other partners.
Most of all, think about how you can serve others through teaching them about your expertise by sharing insider tips, ways to do things, things to know, secrets to a success, mistakes people make that they can avoid, or steps to working with your industry category.
I hope these inspire you! Doing any of the items below will set yourself up for success!
Ways to Market Your Business Right Now:
Go deeper with existing clients: Now is a great time to utilize bringing in referrals.
Connect with 5 people in your industry and work on relationships: We are all going through hard times this year. Show up for others routinely and help serve them when you can with no ask in return.
Infuse empathy in your social marketing communications: Stop selling and start showing up, and sharing tips and knowledge that is helpful.
Consider new demographics other than your current clients: Look at new communities or people to serve.
Offer special discounts or incentives to past clients: This can be a great way to remind them you exist and get you on the tip of their tongue.
Take advantage of tuning your SEO: Outsource this or do some Googling. Having optimal SEO can help you be found online more easily.
Make promotional cards and drop them off at nearby places that could refer you: Share value, or give something informational -- it’s great to also put a face to the business.
For some industries, consider influential marketing: Connecting with bloggers or people with a large and engaged social following can be a great way to get your name out there from a trusted source. Look for people around 8-15k followers for the biggest bang for your buck.
Wear a t-shirt with your brand on it: Seems like a no-brainer but will get heads turning and make people in your community feel familiar with the name and brand.
Create valuable content and start a blog: Bonus if you then share a link to the blog on Pinterest for extra traction.
Do a giveaway: People love free things and can be great awareness for your business.
Try eye-catching guerrilla marketing: If you have a storefront, create an artful photo-worthy place for passerbys to notice.
Start an email list: Give value to your audience and community routinely so you stay front of mind.
Go philanthropic: Sponsor an event or donate your time on behalf of your business.
Go old-school: Opt for a car magnet or bumper sticker.
Show up online where your clients are and engage: Try forums, Zoom Chats & Facebook Groups.
Find 5 new accounts on Instagram to engage with each month: Be present, engage and be human! Find these accounts by searching geo-tags, hashtags, or through your existing friends/connections.
Pivot or add products and services when necessary: Think of the things your clients or friends and family ask you for a lot in terms of advice, or product. See where you can serve your existing audience.
Get Press: Use a service like HARO (Helping a Reporter Out) to get free PR press for your expertise.
Create an accountability and networking pod of people: Meet monthly and help lift each other up in each other’s circles based on each other’s goals
Utilize sponsored posts or paid advertisements on social: The average follower only sees 6% of your posts so this is a great way for your existing followers to see more of your content.
Ask for reviews: Then share them from past clients and share them on your website and social.
Lastly: Show up, be consistent and stay front of mind.
I’ve prepared a checklist of these items for you to download and reference today, and in the weeks and months ahead.
YOU GOT THIS.
PS: Also now is a great time to consider a brand audit! Learn more about How to Self Audit Your Brand with a free PDF here.