How to raise awareness for your business
Running a small business can be very challenging, especially during the first few years of trading. If you’d like to make more sales and generate excitement about your products and services, then you need to start by making audiences aware that you exist. Luckily there are lots of ways you can do this, with some of them costing more than others. Don’t worry, there’s a strategy out there for everyone. Take a look at some of the tips below as a starting point:
Partner with a digital marketing agency
Undoubtedly the best way to raise awareness for your business, the right digital marketing agency in Belfast can skyrocket your online presence. Of course, the level of success you experience will depend on how much money you’re willing to invest, but no matter how small the service you choose, you’re bound to see an increase in traffic. Before jumping into a contract, think carefully about the kind of growth you want to achieve and the channels you want to utilise. Don’t forget, your chosen agency can help you figure this out in an initial consultation if you’re unsure.
Local campaigns
Is your business largely relevant to people living in your local area? If yes, then it could be beneficial to engage these potential customers in person rather than online. Whether you decide to create leaflets or take an ad out in the local paper, raising awareness of your services in the town you live in can really boost awareness. Some towns even have small business fairs you could consider going along to, helping you to make your mark on the local Highstreet.
Networking
Making connections with other businesses will help you to cement yourself as an authority within your industry. Not only will you learn more about your market and how others who have gone before you have dealt with challenges, but you might also become aware of more opportunities. The more guest posts you write and presentations you deliver at events, the more aware people will be that your business exists. Don’t be afraid of partnering with other businesses on projects that improve your reputation in the eyes of the public.
Encourage recommendations
Word of mouth recommendations are unbelievably powerful and should never be underestimated. Encourage your existing customers to refer a friend by offering them a discount or coupon, or send out survey and review invites via e-mail. Most people will trust recommendations they receive from a family member or friend and your business is more likely to stick in their minds than if they’d seen an advert as they scroll through social media. To go one step further, think about partnering with an influencer or two and paying them to create some sponsored content. This can have the illusion of word-of-mouth recommendations but will reach a much wider audience.
Raising awareness for your business is a long-term project, so don’t expect results overnight. Be patient and work diligently to experience enduring growth.
