Do you ever feel overwhelmed with the fast-paced, ever-changing ways to market your business online? The most common thing I hear is that digital marketing is too expensive. But, this is a myth. Two of the most influential digital marketing tactics today are free, yet their impact can be huge.
Digital marketing is a very broad definition that encompasses so many things. So, let’s focus on just two things that you can do today … for free.
Google My Business
Have you claimed and verified your Google My Business (GMB) listing? If not, stop reading this and go to www.google.com/business and get started. GMB is quickly becoming the new best way for your company to rank organically and stand out from your competition.
Your verified GMB account is a huge part of your local search strategy. If you think GMB is just for people to get directions to your business … think again. People can get directions in a click, but they can also leave and see reviews, view pictures, ask questions and more.
Google My Business Posts
You can improve your GMB listing with Google Posts. This is a great way to stand out in crowded search listings. It is simple to do, especially using the GMB app on your cell phone. The added advantage is so few businesses are taking advantage of GMB posts on a regular basis. Be early to the game and benefit from Google’s algorithm to rank your company better organically and show your listing in a very visually appealing way.
Google Posts also allow you to write snippets with images, text, event titles and call-to-action buttons. This is a chance to be more casual and authentic with your customers.
GMB gives businesses the opportunity to share daily specials and current promotions. You can also promote events and connect with customers directly. It is the best of content marketing, because it is short, simple and free. Google Posts stand out much more than regular listings and encourage increased interaction.
Google Reviews
GMB is home to your Google reviews. While reviews can be a double-edged sword, the reward for reviews is worth the risk, even if some of them are not five stars.
BrightLocal, a marketing firm based in London, conducted a few surveys that had some impressive insights to review. The company’s research found that 91% of consumers regularly check online reviews and 84% trust them as much as a personal recommendation.
Make it easy for people to find you and interact with you by focusing on your Google My Business listing, and watch client interaction increase and drive business.
Related: Wash Wisdom: Understanding the new Google search page
YouTube
Here are a few important things that you need to know about YouTube. First of all, Google owns YouTube, and so the two largest search engines are now sharing information. There are over 1 billion users on YouTube. More than 500 million hours of video are watched on YouTube every day. These facts point to the powerful influence that videos on YouTube can have for your business.
Related: Wash Wisdom: Creating engaging video marketing
Start by creating a YouTube channel. Then, get comfortable shooting some video for your channel. Keep in mind that this does not have to be professional videography. Just grab your cell phone and start to share ideas and tips, and let people get to know you and your business in a very real and authentic way. If you are quirky and funny, then let your videos reflect that. If you are professional and serious, then your video clips should showcase that. This will help you attract your ideal customers. A short, 30-second story can create some dramatic appeal in a very memorable way. Be sure to multi-purpose your video by uploading to YouTube and sharing on other social media platforms.
These two influential marketing tactics can make it easier for people to find you and understand what you do. Once you have both of these tactics implemented, you will be ready for more advanced marketing options with both your GMB listing and your YouTube videos.
Katie Harris is the co-founder of Spot On Solutions, a digital marketing agency. SOS is a Google Premier Partner. She is a member of the Forbes Agency Council and contributor to Forbes magazine. Katie is also a certified John Maxwell leadership coach and DISC Personality instructor. She is passionate about helping companies grow and profit in business as well as grow their leadership teams. She has been married for 24 years and has three amazing kids. She can be reached at [email protected].
