We've already discussed some essential marketing tools that every small business should use. Today I’m going to add to that piece by listing 4 more ways a business, large or small, can allocate their marketing budget to achieve the maximum results.

1. Utilise blogs for broad online exposure.
2. Optimise digital advertising.
3. Leverage promotional products.

Optimising Marketing Budgets For Results: Tips

Written Content

Something many businesses may not consider when doing a marketing plan is blogging. Blogging is a great way for a business to get their brand out there into various different areas of the internet. It allows a business to connect with certain audiences, products and social media sights. Another bonus is that, if you are willing to give up your time to write, a blog can be absolutely free. So get writing! A blog can contain any topic you deem relevant to your business or simply a topic that will generate attention from potential customers.

Digital advertising

Digital advertising allows a business to track the precise reach of their brand and to place their brand in front of their ideal customer. This ability to target only those consumers likely to be interested in your brand is revolutionary and is such an efficient and cost effective way of advertising. Online advertising allows the business to track the number of impressions an advertisement receives from a particular display ad. The number of clicks per website visit that result in action such as a purchase are of even more importance.

The amount of likes a Facebook page has or followers a twitter account or Instagram account have can clearly be seen. Online forums and discussions can measure on what scale a campaign or product is being talked about.

Without this businesses would be at a huge disadvantage. They would have very few ways of measuring the effectiveness of their marketing tools. For example, it is virtually impossible to measure how many people have seen an outdoor billboard whereas it is possible to measure the amount of clicks a banner advertisement receives.

Market Research

The power of market research should never be underestimated by any business. It is another marketing tool that can cost absolutely nothing. It is essential for businesses to understand their consumers needs and the market they are trading in. Data is a wonderful addition to helping businesses make decisions about the future and expansion. A marketing strategy cannot be created without customer feedback. All businesses should make the time or find the funds to conduct market research.

 Marketing Automation

Businesses should constantly be looking for ways to be more efficient. Setting up an automatic follow up system is a great way of doing this. It will allow you to provide a consistent brand experience but ensure that your ideal customers have the best service before they become a client. It is important to manage new and existing contacts so that they have the ultimate customer experience and never forget your brand. You want to be the go to business for their needs.

Promotional Products: A Marketing Essential

Promotional products play a crucial role in marketing, contributing to both brand awareness and customer loyalty. Here are some ways that promotional products can be an effective marketing tool:

• Promotional items can reach a broader audience than traditional advertising methods, such as billboards or print ads. Items such as promotional metal pens or branded tote bags can generate interest from potential customers walking by.
• Promotional products are tangible, which provides more prolonged exposure to the brand. Unlike ads that run for a specific time, promotional items, for example, personalised cotton tees, can be used repeatedly, ensuring continued exposure.
• Promotional items are a cost-effective way to market your brand. By investing in promotional products, you can achieve significant results with minimal marketing spend.
• Promotional products are an excellent way to differentiate your brand from the competition. By selecting products that resonate with your audience, you can create a memorable impression and ensure a unique brand experience.

Overall, promotional items are an excellent marketing tool due to their effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and ability to create brand awareness and loyalty.

Takeaway

In conclusion, this article highlights some essential marketing tools and strategies that businesses, both small and large, can utilise to maximise their marketing budget. By incorporating written content through blogging, businesses can expand their brand presence across various online platforms. Digital advertising provides precise targeting and measurable results to reach the ideal customers. Market research offers valuable insights for decision-making, while marketing automation enhances efficiency and customer experience. Lastly, promotional products serve as cost-effective marketing tools that increase brand awareness and loyalty. Remember, utilising these strategies can give your business a competitive edge in the market.

First seen on http://lmhinzmarketing.com/business-sense/11-things-you-should-be-doing-with-your-marketing-budget/