How to Market During the Pandemic
From connecting in our relationships to running our small businesses, COVID-19 has transformed the way we live, work and socialize. I do feel fortunate that my family and I are healthy and safe, and I’m trying to find the positive opportunities in all of this.
That’s why I recently shared an article called “How to Pivot Your Small Business Strategy During the COVID-19 Crisis”, on our website.
I am also hearing from many small business owners who are wondering whether or not to stop marketing during COVID-19. That article showed entrepreneurs how to market during the pandemic, including ways to create a crisis marketing strategy and to:
- Help customers rather than simply selling to them
- Focus on online events and offerings
- Plan for future growth
- Empower employees
As we continue self-isolating to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, I wanted to follow up with some other effective ways to keep your business running smoothly and successfully.
Here’s 4 marketing strategies to consider:
1. Focus on Digital Campaigns
With the shutdown or slowdown of most brick-and-mortar businesses, entrepreneurs are relying more than ever on digital strategies. A big part of brand marketing during this pandemic and into the future is going to be shifting most (if not all) of your small business online.
In fact, Larry Kim from Mobile Monkey just wrote, “One new customer closed their brick and mortar locations nationwide and found web traffic is up +150%.”
According to Klaviyo, an email marketing platform that taps into a network of 30,000 businesses for insights, 22% of brands said they’re spending more on ads. And 66% of brands that are spending more on ads are also seeing increased efficiency, with a reduced cost per 1,000 impressions (CPM) and cost per click (CPC).
If you’re wondering how to market during the pandemic, consider using Facebook Ads, Google Ads, Instagram for Business or LinkedIn Ads to direct traffic to:
- Well-researched and useful blogs and videos
- Online products with free shipping
- Virtual services you can offer, whether that’s financial therapy or online music lessons
- Gift cards that can be used now or in the future
That said, don’t be afraid to pause campaigns that aren’t relevant right now, or that you think may turn your customers off.
Part of brand marketing during this pandemic is knowing when to re-strategize and pivot, rather than continuing Surrey Realtor with an ad campaign that’s not going to resonate with-or even offends-your target audience.
2. Update Your Google My Business Listing
Your customers and potential customers are counting on you for the latest information about your small business. If you’re closing your company temporarily, whether you’re changing the hours you’re open, or offering curbside pickup right now, you need to let people know.