Imagine that your vacuum has broken, and you decide to purchase a new one. How would you begin your search? Ten years ago, you might have traveled to your closest retailer and compared prices or talked with a salesperson. You may even have called a friend or family member for a recommendation. Now, you don’t even have to leave the house to get the latest information on the products and services that you need.
Technology has transformed the way that people make purchasing decisions. Increased internet access and the prevalence of mobile devices have made it easy for consumers to research products/services and share their thoughts and experiences with others instantly. As new technologies continue to develop, it is important for your business to stay up to date with these changing consumer habits and adjust your marketing strategy accordingly.
The Focus on Digital Marketing
The internet has made it easy to instantly access an abundance of information, making it vital for businesses to connect with their target consumers online. According to AdWeek, 81% of shoppers conduct online research before buying. With so many people looking for product information online, it is essential for companies to create compelling and useful online content that helps consumers confidently make purchasing decisions.
Research also shows that customer testimonials have the highest effectiveness of any content marketing. Review sites like Yelp have become the new word of mouth, and many customers are also turning to social media sites to share their thoughts on brands. With this shift, businesses need to engage their customers on social media and other review sites where they can communicate in real time and increase exposure through targeted ads.
Connecting with Customers on Mobile Devices
Technology is also changing where and when we get information. With mobile devices, consumers are able to conduct product research immediately. In fact, according to Google, 82% of smartphone users consult their phones while standing in a store and deciding which product to buy. These are great opportunities for companies to connect with consumers and offer information when buyers need it most. Mobile marketing and targeted mobile ads can help you take advantage of these on-the-go moments and be present where your customers are.
Inbound Marketing to the Rescue!
Instant access to an abundance of information has made it vital for businesses to reach out and offer potential consumers information before they even start to look for it. Here is where inbound marketing comes in. Inbound marketing tactics allow you to take what you know about your consumer base and use this information to attract new leads and empower consumers through online material that your target customers find valuable.