Whichever way you look at it, this is a distressing time. Regular developments are causing uncertainty and impact on our daily lives.
Events are cancelling. Schools are closing. Travel is grinding to a halt. It’s understandable that a lot of us are feeling stressed, anxious and concerned about what’s to come.
When it comes to your business, it may leave you wondering what to do about your marketing. Should you even be posting on social media?
Well, as the popular adage says, “When times are good you should advertise. When times are bad you must advertise.”
Stay top of mind with your audience by remaining active online. Be careful and considered in your tone and approach, but don’t fall silent.
Businesses that step up to be seen will flourish when the dust settles, ahead of those who pull back and retreat.
To help with your marketing during this period, here are some ideas you could consider:
Grow your database
Create a lead magnet to offer as a free download on your website. Or conduct a competition which requires an email address for entry.
Online webinars or meetings
Move live presentations or workshops online and host a webinar or Zoom meeting.
Keep your customers updated
People will look to social media for updates about your business. Keep them informed about your opening times, services available, developments, etc.
Pay-per-click advertising
Use Facebook Ads or Google Ads to reach new audiences. And remarketing to engage existing customers.
Promotions
Incentivise customers who may be reluctant to patronise your business by offering promotions.
Build loyalty
Provide value to your existing customer base and reward them. Start a Facebook group, create a video series, or provide training tools and resources.
Inspire and support
Provide respite from the stress by inspiring, and engaging – with empathy – in a lighthearted way.
Pivot
Is there an opportunity to offer your product or service in a different way? Can you sell online, or provide online consulting or training? Can you bundle your products or services? Get to market faster with a landing page and promote it with pay-per-click advertising.
COVID-19 preventative measures
Provide updates on how you’re keeping your team, customers, and stakeholders safe.
Marketing can be one of the first places business owners look to make cuts in uncertain times. Although it may seem like the right decision in the short term, your business may look different in the long run. We’re here to help make sure you like what you see.
If you have any questions or need help to navigate this challenging time, we’d be happy to chat.