Marketing
Can the Internet Grow My Business in a Slow Economy?by Tom Wood-Young
Whether or not your business is experiencing a slow down, new marketing ideas can always come in handy. Here are a few Web marketing ideas that might help improve your sale. In fact, the Internet may be the boost you need during a downturn in the economy.
Tap Into Your On-Line Target Market
If you can take your business nationally than do it on-line. Chances are there are hundreds, if not thousands, of people looking for businesses like yours on the Internet. They are looking via search engines, portals, links on related sites and other areas. A proper on-line marketing initiative can help put your Web site in front of thesepeople and offer your company as a resource. Many of these prospects can become new customers, which are critical to success during slow times. The same can apply to local markets, as over 70% of Colorado Springs' households are on-line. The percentage is higher for local businesses. There are tools available to determine your on-line targetmarket. These are reviewed in more detail in our seminars.
Are You Making the Best Use of Email?
Now is the time to set up an email database of customers and prospects. Develop a "keep in touch program" with those that are on the fence. You may want to explore outside opt-in email lists to further expand your reach. Email can be tremendously productive, especially if it is your select list of customers and contacts. Give me a call todiscuss email strategies in more detail.
Is Your Site Easy to Understand and Navigate?
The best marketing efforts will not help if your site is difficult to navigate or not easily understood by your visitors. Test the usability of the site. Our focus group research shows there is a huge disconnect between what a site claims to offer and what visitors to a site understand. Our job is to help you close that gap.
Are You Proud of Your Web Site?
Do you proudly send people to your Web site as a value added resource? Many business owners and managers hesitate to do this as very few are truly proud of their Web site. Develop a site that you can show off and be proud of.
The slowing economy may be an opportunity for you to market your business on-line and reach new customers. If the economy is getting the best of your business, you might find opportunities on the Internet.
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Tom Wood-Young, MBA, is a sales trainer and marketing consultant helpingcompanies increase revenues. He is the author of INTUITIVE SELLING and canbe reached at 719-481-4040 or at tom@woodyoungconsulting.com. Visit www.SalesTrainingPlus.com.
