And on the first day of Christmas We Are Savvy gave to me…..12 Savvy Marketing Tips to think about in the lead up to Christmas, and always.
1 Be true to your brand
During times of change, it’s always important to be true to your brand and who you are. Think about how you treat your customers and how you are perceived in everything you do.
2 Know what your customers want
Knowing what your customers want and what they will pay for is half the battle. Take away the guesswork by asking the right questions and listening carefully to the answers.
3 Create and follow a plan
Stop wasting time and money doing ad hoc marketing. By creating even a simple high-level plan and following it, you keep your marketing on course and achieve your business goals.
4 Measure your results
Data, both qualitative and quantitative, is the key to knowing if your marketing is working or not. Ask your customers, ask your employees, check your analytics and sales figures to know what tactics are adding value.
5 Know your industry and competitors
This will help you to make your products, services and marketing stand out. It will enable you to set your prices competitively and help you to respond to rival marketing campaigns with your own initiatives.
6 Invest in your brand consistently
Your investment doesn’t have to be a lot, but it has to be consistent. Your brand is one of your most valuable assets and in tumultuous financial times, an asset that can help deliver value to your business.
7 Don’t forget your existing customers
It’s much harder to get new customers than it is to retain them. Look after your existing customers – drop them a line, give them a discount and say thank you!
8 Be proud to stand out
It’s competitive and crowded out there. Having a point of difference is what will make you stand out, so be you and don’t be afraid to show what makes your business unique.
9 Be seen in the right circles
You don’t have to be seen by everyone. Learn and know who your audience is and adapt your marketing so that you are seen by the right people at the right time in the right place.
10 Keep “pivoting”
This year has taught us to pivot. Make sure your business is agile, not sitting stagnant and resting on its laurels. By being agile, you safeguard your business from any unexpected hurdles.
11 Integrate your marketing
Ensure each marketing activity you do complements other activities. Integration is about delivering the same message, tone and look to maximise your marketing impact and reach, and deliver a consistent experience.
12 Be human
Keep it real in your marketing. People don’t just want to see the polished version of things, especially after this year. Show yourself and show there is a face behind the words. People will find your brand much more approachable.