Have you ever thought about setting up an online store or a social media page for your business? If so, this blog is for you!
In the modern world that we live in, having a physical shop without being present online can be detrimental to the growth of your enterprise. We live in a generation where everyone has gone digital and the current pandemic has equally made people rely on technology to get by. Having a presence online can make such a difference and if done correctly can completely transform your business.
There is more than one platform that can be used to move your business digitally and the one that you pick depends on who your customers are and how you would like to be discovered. Depending on how you decide to get connected, it’s important that you do your own research to fully take advantage of each platform.
Local online directories
An easy way of building up a digital presence for customers to find you, can be to simply list your business on a local online directory. Local business directory is a site that features listings for businesses in a certain town, industry, or niche. For example, if a customer is searching online for a local coffee shop; all coffee shops that have listed their business will pop up with the address and details. This is a great opportunity to attract new customers that would have not known about your business beforehand.
If your business is based on selling goods online, this may not work for you, as you would need a physical location where your customers can find you.
Setting up a Website
Having a website set up gives you access to a range of different opportunities to connect to your audience. Not only does it give you the opportunity to exchange information, but you are able to do so 24/7. If you are not already online, it could be the right step for you.
A few important things to take into consideration when creating a website for your business are:
- The website domain name
When discovering your domain, you need to ensure that it is available and as close as possible to your business name. If your business name is taken, try and use an alternative URL. For example if .com is not available, try .co.uk or .net. In addition, make sure the ending is appropriate for your audience. If your customers are from another part of the world, make sure you use that specific country’s URL. If you’re a charity you may want to consider .org.
- Keep it simple and easy
You don’t want to overload visitors with irrelevant information. When customers are searching for your product/service they want to know exactly what they are purchasing. When creating your website try and do it from the customer’s point of view. Avoid adding information that is irrelevant for them to know. In addition, keep the colour scheme simple as a harsh colour scheme can make it difficult for customers.
- Make it easy to access
Watch out for mistakes that could potentially drive your customers in the other direction. Ensure that your website has quick loading pages and is phone friendly. If pages take too long to load up, it can discourage your customers from discovering more about your business. We also need to take into consideration that individuals look up businesses while they are on the move and therefore, are more likely to use their mobile phones. If your website is not responsive, they will not be able to take in the information which could have led you to a sale.
Social Media
Another way of building your digital presence for your business can be through social media. Compared to the other options this is a great way to interact with customers and start building up a relationship with them. You are able to have conversations, learn more about your customers and even gain and share inspiration. This option is a great add on to your website and if done well can translate into sales and loyal customers.
Things to consider when creating a social media account:
- Create a social media strategy
Understanding analytics is an important stage in the long-term activity. You need to understand the types of posts that your customers enjoy.
- Don’t just sell your products
Social media is not a place that welcomes direct sales. Instead, you need to create posts that help promote your business as well as inspire others which can then turn into a lead.
- Keep branding consistent
Make sure you maintain brand consistency across all of your social media channels. This means that the logo, name and colours are always the same so that your customers know it’s you no matter where they are.
Creating a Business App
Depending on where you are with your business, it may be the right time to invest in an app. It’s important to note that having an App does not secure your business but is more of a way to secure a strong presence in your industry. They can be costly to start up and maintain, however, if your business is at a stage where an app can add value then there are many benefits.
- Provides more valuable customers
- Builds a stronger brand
- Connects better with customers
- Boosts profits
If you need help creating a digital presence for your business, do not hesitate to contact Ava Rose Marketing at hello@avarosemarketing.co.uk. We are based in Thame, Oxfordshire and would be happy to see how we can help you grow your business.
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