Marketing online is a godsend for those who want to get the word out about their businesses but don’t want to spend a fortune doing it. Not only that, but the potential for reaching an exponentially greater number of people is amazing. But if you plan to do any online marketing, here are three things you absolutely must do to succeed.
1. Be active. While it may seem like posting an online ad once should be enough to spread the word about your REI business, that simply isn’t the case. The Internet is a fluid, moving entity. To say it changes daily is an understatement. In reality, it changes moment by moment.
That’s why if you want your business to stay in the forefront of your target audience’s mind, you have to post ads frequently. You have to use Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other social network sites daily. You have to continually and consistently put your name out there.
Start a blog. Post articles at least three times a week, five is better. If you don’t have the time to write posts, hire a ghostwriter. But keep sharing yourself with the people you want to do business with. It’s absolutely essential to marketing online.
2. Do something different. Use custom graphics. Take your property photos from a slightly different angle (albeit still a flattering one). Include a fun photo of yourself instead of a staunchly professional one. Do something that will encourage a customer, tenant or property owner to call you instead of your competitor down the street. Offer a referral reward for anyone who sends a new property owner or tenant your way.
What you do doesn’t have to be expensive or extravagant. (How about a little plastic horn to thank referrers for “tooting your horn”?) But it does have to be memorable. It’s easy to get lost in the crowd when marketing your REI business online. Let people know that doing business with you is better, more fun, more exciting, more rewarding, more SOMETHING and they’ll flock to your virtual door.
3. Include a call to action. Be sure every article, blog update, reward offer, or anything else you post online includes a call to action. This can be as simple as “Call me today for your free gift” or “Help me spread the word about my REI business and I’ll send you a free…” Sure you can say “Call me at 888-111-3344” but that’s ignoring marketing move number 2 above. Instead, opt for something a bit different. It will be worth the added effort and pay off in more responses for your effort.
Marketing online is a boon for today’s business owners. Following these must-do online marketing moves will help ensure your work isn’t wasted or lost in the nether regions of cyberspace and instead brings the results you need to succeed as an REI professional.
