Spring is in the air, and it’s a great time to take stock of what’s working and what isn’t in your business. Does your website need a refresh? Are you planning any events or trade shows? Do you need a press release on a new product launch or service? Here are several tips to spruce up your business and give it a little sparkle:
Keep Your Name Out There – For some businesses, spring – and often summer – is when revenue slows because people are looking for ways to get out and have fun. But this also can be a great time to look for ideas to get your name out there. Whether it’s sponsoring a contest, participating in an event or giving tips to your customers through a blog or article, getting your name in front of people on a consistent basis builds awareness and credibility for your brand.
Plan Ahead – Create a to-do list of upcoming promotions, new products, speaking opportunities, webinars, and other marketing events. Devise a communications plan that reaches your target market, with goals, strategies and tactics. Knowing what you want to get accomplished helps you better focus your expenses and time.
Build a Team – No big job is accomplished solo. When setting goals for the season ahead, put together a team that can work together. Designate roles and responsibilities so that work is done in a timely manner.
Talk to a Pro – If you’re too busy or don’t know where to start,consider working with a PR professional. She can help develop a plan, draft press releases and other materials, and determine the right reporters and editors to reach. PR professionals often can help you connect with third-party organizations and other groups to enhance brand awareness and trust for your brand.
Be Social – Social media is crucial in raising awareness of your event or offer. Make frequent posts that are engaging, interesting and informative, as well as those that encourage people to visit your website or location. Try your hand at paid social media advertising on Facebook or LinkedIn to further expand your message. If you’re presenting a webinar, promote the event before and after to maximize publicity. Before the event, you may want to entice people with a coupon code or other offer, and after the event, you can write a blog post summarizing the main points.
Divide and Conquer – Sit back and assess what campaigns or actions are working and those that are not. If something is not working, determine whether to scrap it completely or change it to be more effective. Even if you have a plan, it doesn’t have to be set in stone. If you have an idea, for instance, it’s worth running it by your PR pro to ensure it is positioned correctly for maximum positive exposure.
Be Ready for Growth – When you focus on getting your name out there through actions like PR campaigns, press releases, media and other venues, be prepared for incoming calls, emails or website traffic. Have people on hand who can help, and be certain your website is ready for increased activity.
Celebrate – When you are successful, don’t be afraid to brag – a little! Did you land a big client? Tell people via social media. Did you have a significant breakthrough, win a contest, receive recognition, or start offering a new product or service? Write a press release. Stand out from the crowd by showing off what you do.
Spring and summer don’t have to be slow commerce seasons. By working with a PR team, you can ensure that your company stays in the forefront of people’s minds, and that you have the most successful season ever. Talk to Alpine Communications today to get the word out and get started on your next season of success.