The importance of marketing

As a small business owner, consistent, constant marketing plays a big part in making sure your audience knows you, what you offer and what makes you unique. It would be great to simply open the door to your business every day and wait for the customers to roll on in. In reality, we know that doesn’t happen without a LOT of effort.

Marketing really is a full-time job... and an important one! Here are just a few reasons why you need to put time and energy into your business marketing.

1. Marketing informs and educates your customers and potential customers. You may know everything about your products and services, but do your customers? Do they really understand what you do and how and why? Done well, marketing can also give your potential customers all the information they need to make that buying decision.
2. Marketing engages customers. The conversation can (and should) continue after your customer makes their first purchase. Here’s where small business may have the edge over the big boys. You can take the time to engage personally with your customers through your marketing to grow and maintain relationships that in turn will build trust.
3. Marketing increases sales. Yep, we’d all like a little more of that please! Marketing is ultimately what drives sales. A good product and the right price backed by excellent service are great... but only if you let people know about it.
4. Marketing grows your business. There’s often a fine balancing act between maintaining the relationship between your current customers and attracting new ones. Too much focus in one area alone and you might start to feel it in your back pocket. Marketing should secure the future of your business by striking the right balance between old and new customer engagement.

An easy way to promote your business is through word of mouth marketing

We’ve all done it. Told friends about something we bought, a great experience we had or service that went above and beyond. Word of mouth marketing is an organic (and free) way customers can share with others about their experience with your business.

Let’s face it, you’re more likely to trust the word of a friend, business associate or family member than an advertisement by the business. Yes, word of mouth marketing is one of the most effective ways to build a positive reputation, especially in your local community.

Look at every customer interaction as an opportunity and train your staff to do the same. Gaining free word of mouth marketing shouldn’t be the goal of your customer interaction, but the end result of offering a good product and great service. If your customers are happy, they will tell others. Then you can invite them to share their positive experiences through apps and testimonials on your website and social media.

Bring in the marketing professionals to help you

It’s clear; marketing is an essential part of your business, because it works. But only if you do it well. If you let it slip and receive bad reviews or negative attention, or savvy competition sets up in your market it can damage your business – big time! The wrong approach to marketing, especially in the early stages of your business can cost you dearly and put you way behind the eight ball.

The question is when do you find the time to focus on marketing when there is so much else in your business that needs your attention? The answer - enlist some professional marketing support. Marketing consultants offer a range of services from strategic planning, to sourcing and creating advertising to social media, running promotions and so much more. A good consultant will help set up a long-term plan to help inform and engage your customers; to build your brand AND your business.

Having the services of professional marketers at hand will save you time, energy and money and allow you to take care of the other important areas of your business.

Marketing is a vital element of any successful business. Contact Bartercard and find out how we can put you in touch with marketing professionals keen to help you grow your business.