Even the most accomplished marketing consultant is always looking for handy marketing tips and tricks. But when you search for marketing tips, the results are always so vague. What does “create a cohesive narrative” even mean? What we all need are some concise steps that we can take and to know the benefits of these.
So I’ve whipped up a list of 5 digital marketing tips that you can action today. Or tomorrow. These are all simple things that will make a difference to your business without you needing to take a marketing degree.
Let’s jump right in.
1. If you don’t say what you do, how can Google know?
If your website doesn’t explicitly state what your company does, how can search engines serve your website to people who are searching for businesses like yours? Many website templates have a minimalist design, which is great for aesthetics, but not so great for SEO. To increase your website’s visibility on search engines, you need to include a paragraph on your homepage that explains what your company does and the keywords you expect people to use to find your website.
For instance, if you sell recycled backpacks, you should make sure you use the term “recycled backpacks” on your homepage and on some of your product pages. Be careful not to overdo it, though, as Google doesn’t like keyword stuffing. Ideally, aim for a neat paragraph of around 300 words that includes your main search terms.
Using a clear description of what your company does is that you can improve your search engine visibility and increase traffic to your website.
2. Boost your email marketing by changing the wording on your email sign-up
Let’s talk about how you can make the sign-up process more appealing. We know that the term ‘signing up’ can sound like a big commitment, reserved for mortgages and Nectar cards. Yet, it’s a term that appears on about 80% of websites that offer newsletters.
Instead of using generic phrases like ‘sign up for company news’, consider spicing up your wording and being more specific about what benefits your subscribers will receive. For example, you could try ‘Get discounts direct to your inbox’, ‘Get skincare tips from the hottest celebrities’, or ‘Be the first to hear about new arrivals!’
By demonstrating the benefits that your subscribers will receive, you can make the sign-up process much more attractive and increase your email sign-ups. So, why not give it a try and see the difference it can make for your business?
3. Create Instagram hashtag shortcuts
If you use Instagram, you’re probably aware of the importance of hashtags. They help increase your post’s visibility and can attract new followers. However, including 10-30 hashtags per post can be a hassle, especially if you have to type them out every time you post.
Luckily, there’s a simple solution: create a hashtag shortcut.
If you have an iPhone, go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement and press the + button. In the “phrase” section, insert all your hashtags, and in the “shortcut” section, type your shortcut name (e.g., “tag1”). Now, whenever you type “tag1” into Instagram, it will automatically insert all your hashtags.
Using a hashtag shortcut will save time and simplify your Instagram posting process.
This saves me so much time. Bear in mind that my iPhone is an iPhone 6 and as old as the hills – so some of the menu items might be slightly different. However, the process is the same.
3. Homepage reviews
Have you ever bought something from an unknown business and felt a bit apprehensive about the purchase? Good reviews and testimonials can help ease those fears and make customers feel more confident in their buying decision. That’s why it’s a good idea to include reviews on your homepage as well as other pages on your website.
If you’re using WordPress, there are plugins available that can help you display reviews. Alternatively, you can create your own images with stars and text that fit your branding. If you don’t have any reviews yet, start collecting them by offering your customers a discount or something free in exchange for a review on Facebook or other reviewing platforms.
The benefit of including reviews on your homepage is that it can increase sales by instilling confidence in your potential customers.
4. Your confirmation email is important
———–
Dear Alice
Thank you for your order. Your reference number is 12345.
Your details are blah blah blah.
Thanks.
The Dull Company
———
Do you consider your confirmation email just a formality? Think again! Your confirmation email is an excellent opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your customers. Instead of sending a dull and forgettable email, why not make it fun and memorable? Share a funny story, add some striking images, or write a touching message. For example, a beauty company I ordered from once sent a confirmation email that told a story about how they had a party to celebrate my order and sent it off by private jet. It might sound silly, but it made me remember them and I’ll likely return to them again.
The benefit of revamping your confirmation email is that you can encourage repeat business. A memorable confirmation email might make customers feel appreciated and more likely to shop with you again.
Go do it!
This afternoon, if possible. Good luck!