1. Start marketing your startup ASAP
The best way to create buzz is right when your product or service is launching, so that means you have to start preparing before. Make sure ads are running, emails are sending, and your website is up and running, all in the weeks leading up to your big debut. This goes for any other important announcements or news besides your launch, including new product, holiday deals, or store releases. Part of your marketing strategy should include a public relations plan which is especially helpful right when you are getting started. Consumers and media are always looking for the big new thing, so take advantage of the fact that you’re a new company by solidifying your marketing campaign and starting with a bang.
2. Set your goals
Have your goals laid out before you launch your marketing campaigns, so you know what you’re working towards and can track measurable results. Figure out which metrics will be the most valuable performance indicators to your startup – whether that is likes, sales, website visits, or Instagram followers. Keep track of what works and what doesn’t work so you can continue to hone your marketing strategies as your business takes off.
3. Choose your target market
Even though your startup’s product or service may appeal to a wide range of consumers, narrowing down your target market for specific campaigns can be more effective at generating results.
•Focus on building one audience/customer base at a time
•Target Google ads and Facebook ads with specific demographics
•Look at your customer data and social data to see who your audience is
•Segment email campaigns to different audiences
4. Build social media profiles
Even if you are not a social media guru or think it is relative to your startup, creating a few basic social media pages is an easy way to make a digital mark on your audience. Although your website is your virtual storefront, your social pages are also a go-to for consumers to learn more about your brand and connect with you. Make sure the content you post on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, is relevant and authentic. Setting a content calendar can help you stay organized by planning posts weeks in advance so you aren’t scrambling at the last minute. You can even optimize post times by finding out when your followers are most active, so your brand gets the most visibility.
5. Stay in contact with your audience
When you’re starting from fresh it’s important to start building up your list of contacts and customers. Use each sale and website visit to create a prompt that asks customers to sign up for email updates, that you can use to send news and promotions to later. Creating reminders for abandoned carts, upcoming sales, and holiday greetings through marketing emails keeps your brand at the forefront of consumers’ minds and builds a relationship.
Providing a place for reviews on your own website or social media will create a community of brand loyal fans. Frequent and genuine communication is key for increasing sales, customer satisfaction, and overall longevity for your startup.
Mad Mind Studios is here to help your startup take-off! Learn more about our logo design, digital marketing, social media, and web design services to start 2019 with a bang.