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Remember the days when you could market your small business by hanging a sign on your door, passing out business cards, and running a local print advertisement or radio commercial? Oh, how times have changed. New media channels are outpacing traditional media, such as local newspapers, cable television, and direct mail in today’s business world. In addition, websites, social media, email campaigns, and online advertising are helping small businesses like yours find new customers and vendors. Another way to build your brand and stay ahead of the competition is to use mobile technology. This Balboa Capital blog article discusses how mobile technology is changing marketing.
Mobile technology statistics.
Mobile usage in the United States shows no signs of slowing down. According to Pew Research Center™, 85% of American adults own a smartphone, and 53% of Americans own a tablet¹. Reviews.org reported that Americans spend an average of 3 hours and 53 minutes daily on their mobile phones².
Additionally, consumers surf the Web, check email, use apps, and make online purchases on several Internet-enabled devices. Simply put, mobile technology is expanding at a rapid pace.
Mobile advertising strategies.
Small businesses that do not have large-scale websites, or a longstanding web presence, typically lack high organic keyword ranks on Google™ and Yahoo®. However, there are several cost-effective ways for small businesses to promote their products or services online, emphasizing local search.
These include geographically targeted pay-per-click advertising, optimizing web pages for local search, and listing your small business on Google™ and Yahoo®. A Facebook™ business page and a Twitter™ account can also help drive traffic to your website. Additional mobile strategies include mobile coupons and targeted email campaigns.
Mobile marketing trends.
Keep an eye on mobile marketing trends because some are popular among consumers, equipment vendors, and small businesses. In addition, mobile payments are gaining significant traction; some of the country’s largest retailers and credit card companies have embraced the technology.
Mobile payments make the buying experience easier for customers, whether in a brick-and-mortar store or online. Next, Internet-enabled watches, dubbed “smartwatches,” are expected to feature targeted advertising and messaging, making those tiny billboards on your wrist.
If you want to stay ahead of the curve, consider investing in mobile marketing and updating your website to be mobile-friendly. Doing so can boost your online awareness and help your intended audience quickly find your products and services.
References:
1. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/fact-sheet/mobile/
2. https://www.reviews.org/mobile/cell-phone-addiction/
Balboa Capital, a Division of Ameris Bank, is not affiliated with nor endorses Pew Research Center, Research.org, Google, Yahoo, Facebook, or Twitter. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.