Digital marketing is becoming more and more competitive.
According to Census Bureau’s data, almost 5.5 million new business applications were filed in 2021, which is a 53% increase from 2019.
Hit by global lockdowns and deprived of most traditional means of attracting customers, most of those businesses turned to the Internet in an effort to build traffic and sales.
This resulted in a higher than ever digital marketing competition.
How can a small business compete with that?
How can you generate sales from your small business website in this competitive environment?
Here are some solid ways to do that.
1. Formulate a Plan
Successful planners often make successful entrepreneurs, laying out detailed (yet actionable) goals every step of the way. The fact of the matter is that if you have numbers you want to hit, you’ll be much more likely to have them in mind and aim to reach them constantly.
Write them down and keep them somewhere so you can continually reference them throughout the year.
Create a Sales Plan
A sales plan is designed to outline your goals, tactics, audience, and potential hurdles. After laying out a sales plan, you’ll come away with concrete, measurable goals, including revenue targets and deadlines for hitting each metric.
You’ll also spend time identifying your target audience, which will be crucial for success in marketing. Creating a sales plan is a necessary first step in meeting your overall business goals.
Create a Prospecting Plan
Think of your prospecting strategy as a guidebook for your sales team (even if your sales team is just you). It should cover all of your preferred sales methodologies, as well as information on who to target.
Ask yourself which form of selling most closely aligns with your business and its goals, from cold-calling to trade shows, to a 100-percent-digital strategy.
2. Market Your Business
Building a good marketing strategy really comes down to two crucial factors:
- Understanding your audience
- Getting your product or service in front of your target audience.
Anything you can do to gather information on your target demographic and then to effectively, affordably market to them will get you ahead in marketing.
Leverage 360-Degree Digital Marketing
Depending on the type of business you operate, you can probably get away with a fully digital marketing strategy. Focus on the most affordable methods first, such as building out your social media and local business profiles.
Social media is the best option for connecting with current, and future, customers. Consider pay-per-click and performance-based marketing options, such as affiliate marketing. This will help you get your product or service in front of a bigger audience for a much lower up-front spend.
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Make Sure You Have a Loyalty Building Plan in Place
It is hard (and in many niches impossible) for small businesses to develop solid and consistent traffic generation methods.
So focus on retaining those customers that did find you and turning them into brand advocates.
There are many ways to achieve that, so create your strategy based on your business and product specifics:
- Set up a dedicated spot for your customers to become part of your community
- Use a solid CRM solution to organize customer relationship management process and identify steps where it may be failing
- Reply to comments and reviews when your customers are discussing your product or asking questions
- Encourage user-generated content by offering perks in exchange for sharing an unboxing video, a photo review of your product or a tutorial on making the most of it.
- Offer exclusive deals and packages. vcita offers a “Packages” feature that allows small businesses to bundle several services together and sell them as a package deal online at a discounted price. You can use vcita to create unique packages for your return users:
Research Niche Gaps and Competitors’ Fails
What are your competitors missing? Which features or products are they seeking and failing to find? You can actually turn the poorest experience into a business opportunity, if you learn to identify that opportunity.
Researching niche gaps is a great way to find a sweet spot for your business to stand out. SE Ranking competitive research tool allows you to identify your competitors’ strongest and weakest side.
You can also use its keyword research tool to find searchable keywords that don’t have much competition (this is a great way to find what’s on demand but without a solid offering).
Social media listening is another great way to find customers who are dissatisfied with your competitors and identify what your competitors are doing wrong (and how you could fit in):
Make Sure People Can Find Your Business
Start by implementing the basics, including a well-optimized website and a detailed listing on Google’s My Business Profile platform (if you are operating a local business).
Optimizing your website through proven search engine optimization (SEO) tactics—such as including relevant keywords and building out detailed, useful pages—is an easy way to ensure that people can find your business.
Plus, besides the time you spend writing the copy, it’s free! This is also extremely important for small businesses. Text Optimizer is a great tool to help you create a highly-relevant copy:
Encourage Cross-Business Collaboration
As a small business owner, you may not have a ton of employees but it is still important to keep them excited and motivated. Encourage your employees to submit content ideas, feature your team members on your social media profiles, let them contribute to your social media channels, etc.
Keep your team together even if you don’t have an office. Your employees need to be part of the family, and an effective communication strategy is vital for any business. Nextiva offers affordable small business communication solutions which will keep your team together:
3. Analyze & Adapt
Too often, businesses funnel big money into marketing and development without investing in detailed tracking and analytics. But you need both to thrive.
Why does data matter so much for boosting sales? Because it allows you to measure—usually, in concrete numbers—exactly what’s working and what’s not working, and then it forces you to adapt accordingly.
Be sure to track your results over time, so you know what strategies are working or if you need to pivot your plan. It is important to keep in mind seasonality, or any other factors, that naturally fluctuate your business, so you can accurately predict results.
Invest in Analytics Tools
Luckily, many digital marketing platforms include built-in analytics, but what about when you’re trying to track something that’s not single-platform based? Often, you can add tools and plug-ins to your website or store to keep track of where sales are coming from and other metrics.
Using a comprehensive Rank Tracker that can connect many data points (rankings, traffic, conversions, etc.) is also essential:
Track All Demographics
As long as you have permission from your user or consumer, you can gather as much demographic information as possible. Pay close attention to patterns that emerge with regard to age, gender, geographic information, income, and education level.
This will help you figure out exactly where to funnel your promotional dollars, including which social media platforms to advertise on and which affiliate websites or blogs to partner with.
Put Your Data to Use
What good is a fleshed-out set of data if you don’t put it to use? Make sure you’re using every single finding to keep your business agile, adjusting as needed to different consumer preferences and market trends.
Be patient with your analytics, keeping a close eye but not being obsessive. In time, you’ll have a solid bank of information that will tell an obvious story about where you should take your business next.
Ask for Feedback and Focus on the Customer
A good sales strategy is one that serves both the seller and the consumer. As you’re going through your first year or two in business, make sure to always keep your ears open to feedback, focusing on specific ways you can improve the customer experience.
Remember that happy customers tell their friends when they’re both satisfied and dissatisfied with a business, so keeping them smiling can help you grow your sales exponentially without you having to do anything at all!
User experience is a vital part of business success both on the web and in real life. If a customer had a positive experience and can leave a review, that will be invaluable when others are looking for similar products.
Positively interacting with customers and ensuring their satisfaction, will not only encourage them to return but also recommend your products to others.
Even though the Internet is getting super competitive, there are still a lot of opportunities to start a successful home-based business and set up a small business that will stand out. All you need is a plan, a solid technology partner and a good team!
The post 3 Steps to Sell More from Your Small Business Website appeared first on DigitalMarketer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 3 motivations of an entrepreneur?
Entrepreneurs have three major motivations: money, freedom, and knowledge.
- Freedom means having the ability to do whatever you want whenever you want. When our lives or jobs are restricting us, we can become entrepreneurs.
- Because we cannot start a business without money, it is equally important that we have enough money. We can survive without food, water, and shelter, but not without money.
- However, knowledge is the third motivation. Entrepreneurship demands that we constantly learn. This is why we read books, attend seminars, take online courses and learn how to create products.
This is what motivates and drives us to reach our goals. It gives meaning and purpose to our lives.
These are the three main reasons we started our business. They are the main drivers that keep us going day after day.
If any of these three items are missing, it's possible to pack up and move home. These three essentials are what will make us truly happy.
What is the importance of motivation for entrepreneurs?
Motivation is what keeps us moving forward even when we feel discouraged or lost. It helps us face our fears and make difficult decisions.
Motivation is key to success. When we lack motivation, we become lazy, unmotivated, unproductive, and ultimately unsuccessful.
The key to unlocking your potential is to find ways to motivate yourself. This means that you need to find ways to keep motivated throughout the day.
Think of it like a muscle - the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes. If it's not exercised, it will begin to weaken.
Most of the most successful entrepreneurs are selfmotivated. They set goals, plan how to achieve them, and follow through.
There are times when you need to be motivated. These are three easy steps that can help you stay motivated.
Step 1) Get inspired. Find someone whose example inspires you. Someone who is already doing what you desire.
Step 2. Establish small goals. Step 2) Set small goals. You should be focusing on the next step and not the final goal. You'll be able reach your goals faster if you break down large goals into smaller ones.
Step 3: Reward yourself. If you have achieved your goals, give yourself rewards. It doesn't have be something tangible, it could just be time spent doing something you enjoy.
Remember, motivation is a choice. Choose to be happy, choose to be successful, choose to live life abundantly.
You can make a difference in your life today. Start by deciding to change. Next, take action. Get started now on your journey to living the life you desire.
What keeps an entrepreneur motivated?
The freedom to achieve my goals is what motivates me the most. There are limitations on how much people can earn, save and invest, buy, borrow, rent or drive, eat, sleep, play, and fly in this world. However, these limits do not apply for us. We are free to pursue our dreams and make them come true.
We can't allow ourselves to be slaves to these limitations. We lose sight of the fact we are in control of our destiny if we do. We are the captains on our ships. We are the architects to our lives.
I am driven by the desire for wealth that is beyond my wildest dreams. To create businesses that have a greater impact than life itself. To create businesses that transform the lives of people forever.
To create more powerful businesses than any government, more influential than any religion, and more enduring than time itself.
That's what keeps me here. I'm working hard to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses faster than anyone else. Because success is for everyone.
What are the 6 most important questions that motivate an entrepreneur?
Motivation is the most important ingredient for any business. Motivation is essential for any business. Without it, it's difficult to get out of bed every day. If you lack motivation, it will be difficult to complete your projects. Without motivation, it's impossible to reach your goals. How do we find motivation?
You might ask, "What motivates you?" You might be surprised at the answer. You may have been asking yourself the same question for years. This question is one of life's most rewarding rewards. It allows you to uncover your motivation.
It's the most motivating thing to discover why you are here. You will then realize what drives yourself. Your purpose becomes clearer. What is your purpose? You'll be more motivated if you can figure this out.
Looking within is the key to unlocking your motivation. These are the questions you should ask yourself:
- What is my passion?
- What makes my heart beat more quickly?
- What lights me up inside?
- What gives you butterflies in your stomach?
- What makes me feel alive and connected?
- What keeps you coming back to your projects again and again?
Once you know your answers, you'll be able to identify your true motivations.
Your motivation can help you get through tough times. It will give strength when you need. It will help you work harder. It will push you to achieve success.
And if that's you, you won't stop looking for your motivation.
Consider what drives you today. You just might be surprised at what you find.
What makes an entrepreneur succeed?
There are two types if entrepreneurs: those who make money or those who work part-time.
Their approach to their business is the difference. Those who make money concentrate on making more money, while people who make a lot of time work harder to make more.
Money-makers are driven by financial freedom. Their goal is to be rich and remain rich.
They are driven by fear and greed. They are motivated by fear and greed, but they don't think about the long-term.
This type of person is commonly referred to by the term "hustler". They are focused on the bottom line and seek ways to increase revenue, without regard for quality.
Some make time. These entrepreneurs are driven to succeed by their passion. They want to create something that is meaningful and will last forever.
They are motivated by altruism. They are driven to achieve great things. They care about making products and services that make a difference.
They are often called dreamers. They are driven by inspiration and vision. They understand that success takes hard work, perseverance, and dedication.
But the most important characteristic of these entrepreneurs is that they are creative. They are constantly looking for opportunities that have never been seen before.
They thrive in the unknown. This is why they are willing to spend hours researching an area of interest. Because they love learning new things, they are always open to trying new ideas.
It is also why they are adaptable to changing situations. They're not afraid of getting dirty and will do anything necessary to win. The only thing they won't tolerate is mediocrity.
Which type are you? Are you driven to make it big or do you want to find meaning in life?
Congratulations if you answered yes both questions. You are an entrepreneur who is successful.
I've had the pleasure of meeting many successful entrepreneurs over my career and one thing struck me was their passion.
Success isn't measured by just monetary wealth. They are defined by the impact they make.
Steve Jobs was a great example of philanthropic work, even though he wasn’t wealthy. He was only in his mid-40s when he bought his first house.
His ability to create products that have changed the world was what gave him his wealth. This is what makes him unique.
Your job isn't to accumulate wealth. It's not to build empires or amass power.
Your job involves building relationships with customers. To build trust. To make others successful.
To make an impact. This is your legacy. This is your legacy, not your bank accounts.
We'd love to talk with you if we can help you build a lasting legacy.
Social Media University shows you how to create passive income online. We'll show you how to market your company so that it grows automatically.
What are the benefits of having an entrepreneurial mindset?
There are many benefits to being an entrepreneur. You become more independent. You no longer rely on others.
You will be able to work for yourself and follow your dreams. You can also build relationships with other entrepreneurs, as you share the same challenges and interests.
You gain confidence. You learn new things as an entrepreneur. This gives you the ability adapt quickly and to be flexible. This will allow you to think outside of the box and not get stuck in a rut.
We are no longer bound to the regulations and rules that society places on us when we start our own businesses. We're free to decide what we want to do and how we want to live.
We can choose to follow the crowd or go against it. We have the choice to be successful or unsuccessful. We have the option to either fail or win.
It is exhilarating. But it comes with its fair share of responsibility. Because once you step into this role, you're accountable for everything that happens within your business.
Learning to manage risk is key to success. Do not be afraid to try out new things. Your goal will be achieved if you are open to learning from your mistakes.
These are some of the lessons you should keep in mind when embarking on your journey.
Remember:
- Entrepreneurship is a lifestyle choice.
- When you run your own business, you're the boss.
- Avoid following the latest trends.
- Success isn't measured in money but rather in freedom.
- It is important to find a balance between your personal and professional lives.
- Set clear expectations.
- Always be truthful with your team.
- Do something about it if you want things to happen.
Statistics
- “If you look to lead, invest at least 40% of your time managing yourself – your ethics, character, principles, purpose, motivation, and conduct. (americanexpress.com)
- According to analysts, Johnson has high appeal in all four quadrants tracked at the multiplex: male, female, over-25 and under-25. (forbes.com)
- Our 10 years of research also shows that 75% of mentored entrepreneurs increased their revenue, and 82% of their businesses survived the first two years. (carolroth.com)
- "Most of the time when people ask me about motivation, 80 percent of the time, I attribute it to gratitude. (entrepreneur.com)
- "If you improve by just 1% every single day, in several months, you will have improved by 100%. (carolroth.com)
External Links
inc.com
twitter.com
entrepreneur.com
oberlo.com
How To
Are You a TRUE Entrepreneur?
True entrepreneurs are people who create value for themselves and others. He is risk-averse, he creates businesses, and he earns money.
He doesn’t wait for anyone to offer him a chance; he searches for them himself. He is self-motivated and can do anything.
A true entrepreneur knows how to make decisions quickly and effectively. He sees problems clearly and solves them creatively.
According to him, there is no difference in business and life. Entrepreneurship is not a job to him; it's a way for him to live.
True entrepreneurs never fear failure. Failure is a part of success. True entrepreneurs embrace change and thrive under pressure.
They are relentless in their pursuit of growth and achievement. Most importantly, they love what they do because they enjoy creating value.
They don't just want to build successful companies, they want to create successful lives for themselves and their families.
Next time you are feeling unmotivated, or confused about starting your own business, think this:
"Am I a true entrepreneur?" If you answered yes, then go ahead and take action. If no, you might need to rethink where your career is heading.
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