In Tampa, digital marketing trends are creating new opportunities for small and midsize businesses. Thanks to advances in GPS technology, users can find and interact with brick-and-mortar businesses like never before. This can lead to increased profits for business owners who are ready to experiment. However, if you don't have a background in new technology, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are some tips for Tampa Bay Area businesses.
Cast Wide, but Focus Your Efforts
Right now, thousands of potential customers are streaming down Interstate 275, looking for ways to spend their money. Your task is to make it easy for them to find your business. Start by making sure your business's name and address pop up in map apps (here's how to list your business on Google Maps). You also want to be listed with directories, like Google and Bing. Take advantage of location-based social networks (lo-so networks) targeting consumers on the move and searching for things to do, such as Foursquare, Yelp and Gowalla. As Search Engine Watch notes, customers feel that local search results are more trustworthy and relevant than natural or paid search results. Though the goal is to be listed on all these services, focus your attention on the ones best meeting your needs and pulling the most customers.
More Down Low on the Lo-So Networks
Lo-so networks allow users to meet up and check in at your business. Customers like that they can connect with friends and take advantage of special deals, so this is a big win for small and midsize businesses. What you decide to offer, like freebies, discounts or recognition, is how you can test what your customers want and how they're finding you. Tools like SocialCompare can help you assess which service to try or, when in doubt, find a trusted media partner to help create compelling promotions that lead to conversion.
Let the Customer Come to You
There are more ways these new Tampa digital marketing trends drive traffic right to your business. For example, say a customer is looking for parking at a Tampa Bay Buccaneers game. Nearby businesses can push deals to smartphones, such as an offer to come in for a free appetizer after the game. Groupon and LivingSocial users search for deals by location, as well, pulling consumers to your business to redeem the coupons. The basic idea is to place offers in front of consumers who are already looking for you or complementary services.
Pay Attention
Whether you're dealing with residents or tourists, people want coupons and deals that are easy to redeem. Pay close attention to deals leading to conversion and test your theories by offering category deals and discounts. Rather than offering a free, trial-sized sunscreen (many people will have brought sunscreen with them), you might offer a category discount on beach accessories. Your communications shouldn't stop at purchase. Creative enticements sent after they've visited will draw your customers back, lead to repeat business and garner recommendations that will attract others.
