November 19, 2015
Scrolling, for all intents and purposes, is the most desirable form of navigation for websites and user experience (UX). Pages 1, 2, 3 and so on are yesterday's design trend. Scrolling navigation is easy, it’s effective, and people are drawn to it to find the content that they want. It’s just the new norm. The challenger is the use of multi-page design or, simply, pagination for its almost-equal effectiveness, attractive draw, and ability to get profitable results. Let’s see how they both weigh in...
November 17, 2015
Forget about the cheesy stock photos, it’s time to get personal! A “high quality” image does not mean resorting to stock photos. While stock images can come in handy for a last minute project or a quick social media post, maybe it’s time to add a personal touch. Don’t think for a second that a DLSR or “professional” camera is required to take awesome photos. Making the best with what you have - such as a smart phone or that digital camera - is all you need!...
November 16, 2015
When it comes to running a successful marketing campaign, or indeed, a thriving business, planning is key. In fact, whether you’re a small business or a […]
November 12, 2015
We see it all too often: a client wants to target Millennials in the market for a new car. So they want a campaign targeting people ages 25-40, in market for a new auto, who live in a handful of zip codes. And they want to serve them 50,000 impressions over a month.
What’s wrong with this approach? Although some of the target audience can be found using demographic data, this strategy often yields...
November 10, 2015
Think you don’t have time to work on your marketing? Think again. Every business owner has a to-do list miles long, and it’s easy to let advertising slip to the bottom. While you may not have time to become a complete marketing expert overnight, you can be your own DIY-er with a few small touches whenever you get the chance. Got an hour to spare? Here are 5 quick marketing “hacks” to boost your business in just 1 hour....
November 5, 2015
Content may be king, but copied content certainly isn't. It’s not even royalty. It's plagiarism. In fact, it'sy safe to say that any content copied from another website - pictures, text, videos - is going to hurt your business in more ways than one. The moral of the story is: be original. Be you. Your customers will know and appreciate when your writing, photos, and videos truly represent you...
November 3, 2015
Are you new to digital marketing and just researching the "how to's" of online advertising? Skeptical that any of it really works? Or are you ready to jump in feet-first and do it yourself? When it comes to managing digital marketing and advertising, we all fall into one personality type or another. Let's explore some of the most common archetypes, and how to overcome their marketing weaknesses. Which of these 3 digital marketers are you?...
October 29, 2015
Stories of vampires, witches, and ghouls haunt the plots of children’s bedtime stories, and keep kids up at night. And in digital marketing, conversations are filled with myths (often just as scary and dangerous), that keep business owners up at night - too frightened to promote their businesses online. Once again, the digital marketing experts are here to explain what is actually true, and keep you from checking under the bed for spine-tingling monsters of marketing. So sit right down for four of the most ridiculous “Hocus Pocus” myths of the digital world:...
October 27, 2015
Intimidated by PPC and CPM and SERPs? Well it may be October, but digital advertising doesn’t have to be that scary! With Halloween right around the corner, there are a lot of things that can spook you. Digital marketing doesn’t have to be one of them. You may even find that online advertising works better for you and your business! So let’s see how digital advertising can be super not spooky!...
October 22, 2015
You’ve got a piece running here, and another running over there. Today maybe you’ll sign up for something else you see and then that’ll be running, too. You’ve got campaigns and pages left and right, but none of them are even connected, let alone working together. Where’s your strategy? What’s your digital game plan?...
October 20, 2015
The current marketplace is oversaturated with products similar to yours. So unless what you have is a groundbreaking product, it is very difficult to stand out […]
October 20, 2015
The pumpkin craze is fueled by Starbucks and its infamous PSL (Pumpkin Spice Latte), as people everywhere pull out their cozy sweaters and boots and buy the drink as soon as it hits stores. But how did the PSL go from a modest seasonal beverage to the dominant staple of the season? And how can you learn from this phenomenon and use it to spice up your marketing strategy? Let’s digest... the power of the pumpkin....
October 14, 2015
Every recipe has a list of required ingredients, but what truly makes the difference is quality ingredients and the patience to follow the process carefully and correctly. Your digital marketing is no different. The success of your marketing campaigns depends entirely on the quality of the messaging you deliver and your ability to follow best practices to achieve your goals. So what makes a great email?...
October 12, 2015
Like the great explorer in whose name we celebrate today’s national holiday, you can explore the foreign and wondrous lands of digital marketing. You may set out to find customers and discover an entirely new audience sector you never knew you had, or a new way of reaching and engaging with customers you’d never explored before. Set a new course in your marketing plan and discover more with digital!...
October 8, 2015
Making informed decisions is the key to success, particularly when it comes to your business. Your website’s analytics are a crucial part of helping you make those decisions, but they’re often overlooked. Why ignore the helpful, scientific details that can assist you in understanding your marketing, your customers, and in making data-driven choices for how to better reach your audience? Here are 3 myths busted by analytics:...
October 7, 2015
Moments of inspiration and motivation can seem elusive and fleeting when you’re a small business owner. Think of how it feels when you’re on a roll: […]
October 6, 2015
Taco Bell’s recent commercial poses the question of the decade: when does the sharing stop? In recent years, social media has fostered a share-society. Great lunch? Share it. Bad day? Share it. And it’s not just personal users that are guilty either! Businesses often engage in information overload as well, in an attempt to increase brand awareness. What some businesses may not know? Over-posting can pose a serious problem for your business. How do you find the right balance on each different network?...
October 2, 2015
Internet marketing’s popularity, effectiveness, and traceability have caused many small service-based business owners to drift away from traditional marketing mediums like print ads, mailers, coupons, and […]
October 1, 2015
When we all started using the Internet, there was only one way to access the Web: from a desktop computer. Today, the Internet is no longer a tool for a select few; Wi-Fi is ubiquitous and “Googling” has become a part of many people’s vocabulary. And mobile Internet usage has eclipsed desktop (or laptop) use. There have been some major changes in the way that people use the Internet - and you need to respond accordingly....
September 29, 2015
Looking to go global with your marketing? Your brand could easily hop across the border to Canada or Mexico, or cross oceans to Europe and beyond. You might even bring an international flair to your brand here at home, for the multicultural population in your own neighborhood! Whether you’re starting to go global or just trying to reach a new international audience at home, there are important things to consider to make sure your business doesn’t become the latest “foreign fail” story. Here are 5 hurdles to jump when going global with your marketing...
September 24, 2015
Whether you call it Fall or Autumn, there is just something special about the season that makes it stand out. Since it’s hard not to Fall in love with everything the season has to offer - we always look to the things we like most for inspiration in our digital world. Here are 3 quick tips on how you can translate a few of your favorite things into successful business practices!...
September 22, 2015
Creating a Facebook contest or giveaway is a fantastic way to generate interest and engagement in your business on Facebook. Whether you’re looking to generate business […]
September 22, 2015
Learn how to find your clientele, and target your right audience. When it comes to facilitating and understanding your online marketing campaigns, it's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all model. Different kinds of marketing efforts find success on different networks. So how do you find your customers who will bring long-term value to your business?...
September 18, 2015
LinkedIn can be a confusing place. The social media website is for businesses and employees to connect online but many small business owners are hesitant to […]
September 18, 2015
The summer might be winding down and the weather turning cooler, but the news just keeps on coming. From social giants to long-awaited updates, there’s always something exciting and different happening in the digital and marketing worlds. This Week in Tech, Facebook discussed their Dislike button, Instagram’s new photo size options, and why you don’t want to be #1 in search....
September 17, 2015
By leveraging digital marketing for your business, two key components of how you measure campaign effectiveness are conversions and attribution for campaigns like SEM, SEO, and social media ads. Understanding these metrics is key to evaluating the success and performance of your marketing techniques. But how do you measure effectiveness of Display Advertising, if it doesn't deliver clicks?...
September 15, 2015
There’s a lot to learn about your online reputation and what goes into your digital rap sheet. Your reputation comes from sources all across the Internet, on social and review sites, forums, and beyond.
Your customers are sharing their opinions - good and bad - and you need to know what they’re saying, everywhere they’re saying it. Overwhelmed? Don't be. We’ve compiled a list of our top posts (and their key takeaways) covering everything you need to know - on every platform....
September 11, 2015
Sure, bad reviews like these can be comical. But for a business owner, they can destroy a reputation or keep you from creating a healthy public image. The simple truth is that online reviews matter. And, if you run a small business, user reviews on sites like Yelp.com can dictate your success. Here's how to take the reins and nail Yelp for your business!...
September 8, 2015
What is a hashtag? Why is it important for your business? And more specifically, how do you use them? Hashtags allow you to join the conversation, tagging your posts with a keyword or phrase on Twitter, Facebook, and many other social media platforms. Keep up with the trend with hashtags for your business!...
September 3, 2015
As the unofficial summer send-off before we slip into fall weather, Labor Day weekend presents an opportunity for three days of rest, relaxation, and summer fun. Too bad you need to keep up with your digital marketing, right? Wrong! Here are a few simple digital tricks you can use to keep up with your marketing without working too hard this holiday weekend....
September 1, 2015
3…2...1… With only 10 seconds or less to share a photo with your friends, Snapchat has become one of the top social media outlets in the world. With 60 million installs and 30 million active users, not only is Snapchat used to communicate between friends, but also to spread news around the world. Here are a few steps to start using Snapchat as your marketing tool for success...
August 27, 2015
These days “word of mouth” is one of the most powerful, if not the most powerful tool in marketing. With the overwhelming rise of social media, word of mouth has evolved from a small circulation of opinions, into a virtual, interactive, visual world. In 2014, people were found to spend an average of 1.72 hours a day on social media. It's time to take advantage of their (use of) time and stand front and center while they scroll!...
August 26, 2015
Instagram has revolutionized how we experience visual content. It allows people and businesses from around the world to connect through pictures, graphics, and video. With the new updates […]
August 25, 2015
What do Brandeis, University of Phoenix, and Southern New Hampshire University all have in common? All three offer advanced degrees or even Master’s programs in Digital Marketing. Why would you need a degree to update a Facebook page? You don’t, technically. But you do need to have an understanding of how the Digital Marketing industry works to plan your company’s budget, and spend your money wisely -- not waste it on a poorly run campaign....
August 21, 2015
The digital realm is forever changing; sometimes it can be hard to keep up. Luckily, these changes often have positive implications for business owners and marketers. From shrinking snack packs on Google to rising e-commerce sales, and easy-access Facebook post stats, we’ve got you covered on what’s important This Week in Tech!...
August 20, 2015
With the rise of social media, Customer Engagement is quickly becoming synonymous with Customer Service. Now, in order to ensure your business is effectively serving your clients, you have to talk to, relate to, and engage with your customers on a conversational level. Social media has become the primary method when it comes to customer engagement, and rightly so. By becoming part of the conversation, you are better-equipped to serve your customers, able to see what they are saying about you, and most importantly, build mutual respect that extends beyond just the product....
August 18, 2015
One of the most important ways that people will find your business is by performing a search in Google. As a business owner, you have the […]
August 18, 2015
You just made a sale via phone. Congrats! How did the customers find your number? Which of your marketing campaigns lead them to pick up the phone? Was it your landing page? Your Search Engine ads? A mobile search thanks to your SEO? Without this vital information, you don’t have all the pieces of the puzzle. You’re throwing your all your marketing campaigns against the wall just to see what sticks (and sells). Call Tracking gives you a better way! ...
August 17, 2015
Link building through inbound, or backlinks, is an extremely important component of search engine optimization. Google sees backlinks to your site as a sign that others value your […]
August 13, 2015
Uh oh! Taylor Swift may have bad blood with her exes, but now you just found yourself in some bad blood, but with your customers! What happens if you do come across a negative comment or criticism? Here are some tips about how to handle this bad blood....
August 12, 2015
When a person wants to find a business or a type of service, they turn to the internet. Online directories like Yelp, Yahoo, and Google+ are […]
August 11, 2015
Digital ad spending will total $58.61 billion this year. Businesses are turning to digital advertising and they want to measure the results. Why is this such a challenge? Click-through rates measure conversions, but display advertising is about brand awareness. So, if click-through rates don’t define success, what does? Let’s look at some of the metrics that are available, and more meaningful, for evaluating a display campaign...
August 7, 2015
There’s always something new and interesting happening in the digital space. Whether it’s algorithms or feature launches or great data, we keep up with the news so you can put it to work for your business. So what's new, This Week in Tech? Google's most expensive keywords, new changes to Google+, and the social explosion during the #GOPDebate...
August 5, 2015
Facebook continues to establish new ways for advertisers to reach new customers, and maintain customer loyalty. The most newest addition to your Facebook arsenal? Advertising audience tools. Whether you're looking to reach an untapped market, or reaffirm the relationship with an existing customer, Facebook provides the tools to do so effectively through custom and lookalike audiences....
August 4, 2015
For any small business, obtaining customer contact information and email addresses can be tough to do. Email is a great way to keep in touch with former […]
August 4, 2015
With the end of the summer coming fast, recent college graduates are starting to run out of money. And those already in the workforce are beginning to re-think their current career paths. About 70% of the current workforce is actively job searching or would be willing to look into an offer if it were to come their way! That's a huge pool of talent eager to become part of your company’s professional world and future. But what will make your company stand out in the eyes of all this talent?...
August 3, 2015
Instagram can be a great resource for small business visual marketing. Since Instagram is a photo sharing platform, you should strive to produce the best visuals for […]
July 30, 2015
Do you fight for a cause you believe in? Do your customers? Corporate responsibility - whether you’re truly corporate or just a one-man shop - is important to consumers. People want to buy from companies that “do good” in the world. But what is Cause Marketing, why does it matter, and why does it work?...
July 28, 2015
Facebook is making it easier than ever to build brand awareness and drive customer traffic to your website through their ad platform, with a variety of options and features to tailor your campaign to your unique business and needs. In Part II of this 3-part series, learn about Facebook's carousel ads to provide a vivid, visual experience to customers interested in your brand on social media! Carousel ads allow you to attach multiple images to one ad for a more robust, dynamic ad experience...
July 24, 2015
Online polls and surveys are useful tools for small businesses to connect with customers and gauge insight on customer satisfaction. Google Forms is a simple and convenient […]
July 24, 2015
This week’s news is often tomorrow’s marketing struggle. Stay on top of what’s hitting the digital newsstands this week, and save your worries for another time. From social media becoming everyone's go-to news source, yet another Google Panda 4.2 algorithm update, and Twitter's launch of Event Tracking, there’s always something happening in digital. Here’s what’s happening, This Week in Tech...
July 22, 2015
Think the color of your logo doesn’t matter? It does. Don’t believe it? Just ask Spotify. The company's logo changed overnight from its original green color to a more vibrant bluish variation, causing quite the stir among Spotify users. What’s the big deal, you ask? A logo plays a major role in creating - and maintaining - brand identity. Make yours memorable! ...
July 22, 2015
We all know that blogging for your business is important. It positions you as a helpful resource to potential customers and improves your SEO. Studies have […]
July 21, 2015
Shakespeare contemplated whether or not he should write the play Hamlet. Don’t make the same mistake by asking yourself if your business should blog or not, because the answer is yes! Did you know that 65% of daily internet users read blogs? Why not get your brand or business out there by providing useful insights to online viewers? Here are some takeaway tips on business blogging...
July 16, 2015
Business owners have, slowly but surely, come to realize managing a brand on social media is where they can develop their voice, set themselves apart from top competitors, and reach current customers as well as potential ones with immediacy. Advertising on social media platforms is a logical next step in building out a social brand. In Part I of this 3-part series, learn about Facebook's Clicks-to-Website ad platform to drive qualified traffic from your social pages to your site....
July 14, 2015
Recognizing customer patronage is not only the polite and personable thing to do, but it can help lead to loyal customers and more business in the […]
July 14, 2015
What can you do with 30 seconds? Reheat last night’s dinner? Check email on your phone? How about organically build your brand, drive your revenue through the roof, and capture steadfast customer loyalty? That’s right. It’s time to launch your own video content to take customer engagement to the next level...
July 10, 2015
From digital ads to search to social, there were several tech announcements in the recent weeks. These news items could have interesting implications for marketers and local business owners alike. What's happening This Week in Tech? From Facebook offering a simpler way to connect digitally with in-store customers to Google leading the shift to mobile voice search, we are on our way to an even more connected and personalized means of engaging customers....
July 9, 2015
People love pretty pictures, and a picture is worth a thousand clicks. This is why Instagram based their business model around pictures and why your business can't afford to ignore the importance of this social network. Their posts are square images with an optional caption, not a textual post with an optional attached picture. Reach your ideal consumers through engaging content and compelling, clickable ad images people love...
July 7, 2015
Do you have all the makings of a great e-commerce site? Get ready to boost your sales with a few simple best practices that will make your e-commerce site pop, entice customers, and leave people loving your business. What are the ingredients of a good e-commerce site?...
July 2, 2015
Visual marketing is a crucial part of marketing your business. Images and photos not only catch the eye of readers, but they evoke emotions and connections toward a […]
July 2, 2015
When you’ve finally launched your latest website, whether you know it or not, the process is just beginning. Now, install Google Analytics. This free platform, Google Analytics, gives you and your team visibility and insight into 1) what is working on your website and 2) what is not. Learn what your web visitors are looking for, where they are looking for it, and how they interact with your website - then tailor your website accordingly....
June 30, 2015
Happy Social Media Day! It’s 2015 and social media is no longer just that thing the kids are doing. Assuming you’re the savvy business owner you are, you’re already on social media. But are you really taking advantage of all that these digital platforms can do for you? From Facebook to Snapchat and blogging in between, study up on your social skills and you’ll be prepared to take the digital world by storm this year....
June 25, 2015
You have probably seen hashtags used on various platforms like Google+, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or Pinterest. But what are hashtags and why do businesses use them? Hashtags are […]
June 25, 2015
Remember “Mobilegeddon”? Back in April of this year, Google rolled out an algorithm update that shook website owners to the core. This update was expected to have significant impacts on any websites that didn’t meet Google’s newest standards. It struck fear in the hearts of the SEO community. But what really happened after the April 21st roll-out? Did it really have that great of an impact?...
June 23, 2015
When people think about summer, they often think of vacation. That’s not the case for the world of digital marketing. The industry is always active and changing, which keeps us on our toes. Every year, every season, there are new trends and hot strategies to keep up with, staying up to date with the digital current. We want to help you to know all about what’s hot for summer 2015 to help keep your business shining as bright as the sun....
June 19, 2015
There were a few social media announcements this week that could mean big things for small and medium-sized businesses. The latest stories come from social media giant Facebook, which had two interesting announcements, and from Snapchat, a relative newcomer to the social game which is becoming a real player in the market. From more effective ad targeting to content inspiration, your social media marketing efforts could see a bit of a boost as a result of this week’s news....
June 18, 2015
You’ve got a responsive website, designed to nimbly scale and adapt to any device your users throw at it. You’re ready for desktops, tablets, smartphones, smartwatches... you name it. Chances are, you think you’re sitting pretty. Think again. Creating a website experience for mobile users takes more than just a site that fits a smaller screen. Small-screen viewers require a totally different content experience....
June 16, 2015
Every serious presidential candidate this year will have a team focused on building an active, engaging social media presence. They’ll document life on the campaign trail, push out important messages, raise money, recruit volunteers, and generally supplement their on-the-ground GOTV activities. Sounds like a luxury only a big campaign can enjoy, right? Wrong! The key to unlocking Facebook’s potential is a simple, yet tricky, strategy: post good content. Here are some tips on how to make social media work for your campaign, based on real-life examples!...
June 11, 2015
What is Gamification? In a nutshell, gamification is the term for using game elements to motivate, engage, and reward players (or customers). Businesses large and small use gamification to boost their sales and customer base. We play games because they're fun to play, and can take the form of something as simple as a loyalty program where customers get a free ice cream after so many purchases, or even simply the chance to have your photo re-shared by a brand for bragging rights as a photo contest winner. So... are you game?...
June 9, 2015
Some questions are asked repeatedly throughout the digital world. After a while, you would think the answers would become common knowledge. They're not. But that’s ok! People are funny - some just don’t ask. Some are always asking questions. Whatever bucket you fall into, according to industry experts, we've got some burning questions that might satisfy your digital thirst and answer a few common queries:...
June 4, 2015
This week, the tech world saw a few big stories hit the newsstands. In particular, there were a few major social media announcements you don’t want to miss! So what do we have This Week in Tech? Instagram is rolling out their ads program to all businesses, Pinterest is launching "Buyable Pins" to allow customers to purchase directly in the social network, and Facebook is testing out "Saved Replies" before a rollout to all business pages in the coming weeks!...
June 4, 2015
What are Buyer Personas? How do you use them? And are they really worth all that effort? With buyer personas, you can read your customer’s mind. Or, rather, your customer will THINK you can read their mind. Either way, you win. When it comes to buyer personas, even if it’s strictly business, it’s important to get personal...
June 2, 2015
With the daily grind and endless to-do list of running a business, the thought of adding new-fangled digital marketing to the mix can send you over the edge. But we’re living in a digital age! You know your customers are online, and you want to reach them there. Be your own digital genie! Use online tools to boost your business, no magic required....
May 28, 2015
With Memorial Day behind us, and summer on the horizon, most vacationers will start to do their web searches on the go (if they aren't already). That means that now is the PERFECT time for your business to have a responsive website! Don’t let a non-responsive website be the Jaws in your ocean this summer. Unlike Brody, Quint, and Hooper who needed a bigger boat, all you need is to get yourself a site that adjusts to any device....
May 26, 2015
We have all heard the expression before - “quality over quantity” - when it comes to many things in life. Sending emails to your customers is no different. Each and every one of us is a consumer, so why not treat your clients how you would like to be treated? Consider this Golden Rule not just in your shop, but in your marketing as well....
May 21, 2015
Did you know that only 2% of web visitors buy on their first visit to your site? You’re losing out on web traffic if you're not reaching out to the remaining 98% of qualified and engaged web traffic from users who are interested and familiar with your company. Stop missing out on these web sessions and start utilizing retarget advertisements!...
May 20, 2015
Memorial Day is right around the corner! Promote your business for the long holiday weekend with these fresh marketing ideas. Support the Troops Support the troops […]
May 19, 2015
Don’t have a website for your business? Well, surprisingly, you're not alone. And, as Peter Brady so awkwardly sang, it’s time to change. A huge advantage of having a website is that it is still working even when you're not. By making information about your business available 24/7, you’re providing extra visibility for your business, as well as convenience for your customers by allowing them to do research at their leisure....
May 14, 2015
Social Media Today calls Twitter the best customer service platform, as consumers can find immediate answers or resources right at their fingertips through online social activity. Consumers are swamped with brands competing for their attention on social media and reluctance to keep up with the innovations can result in a loss. In a recent survey, 12% of Tweeters said they unfollowed a brand in the last few days! What exactly causes Tweeters to lose interest and how can you prevent this from happening to you?...
May 12, 2015
Your logo is a great way to brand your business and make it easily recognizable in your community and beyond. Starting with a basic logo is great! However, when you are ready to grow your business, having consistent branding throughout your marketing materials is key. But how do you even begin to design or decide on what makes a great logo?...
May 5, 2015
The digital marketing world is full of offers for businesses to increase their Facebook page “Likes”. Many of these advertisements guarantee a certain amount of new followers based on a specific monetary spend. How many of these new likes are actually real, future customers though? The truth is, not that many. What, then, is the solution to boosting your Facebook business page? A "Like" campaign....
May 4, 2015
It’s National Small Business Week! Each year, the Small Business Administration (SBA) and communities across the country come together to celebrate and support small businesses. From local grocers to medical groups, small businesses come in all shapes and sizes. In fact, did you know that a “small business” can have anywhere from 1 to 500 employees? It’s easy to see how in the U.S. alone there, are close to 30 million small businesses which drive the majority of our job growth. 52% of the American workforce is employed by a small business!....
April 30, 2015
Let's be realistic. It used to be enough to stuff a web page full of industry-centric keywords and “Black Hat” tactics to improve your site’s rankings in search results. But now, to no one’s surprise, Google has wisened up and tightened the reins once more. So what does that mean for your Search Engine Optimization (SEO) campaign? It means that now, more than ever, it is imperative that your SEO campaign focuses on overall site health....
April 28, 2015
Marketing is not a one-size fits all process – small town business marketing ideas differ from marketing ideas that work in a city. In order to be […]
April 28, 2015
An Age Old Proverb: Video Killed the Radio Star. Though it’s not 1980, the Buggles were in fact right that video would sweep the nation and take over the platforms which once existed for artists and companies to reach their audience. Video is one of the most effective tools your business can have in your repertoire, whether it's focused on a sales-like, commercial approach, a brand-distinguishing overview, or even a spot to talk about a promotion or deal....
April 23, 2015
Do you know what to expect from your next online campaign? Digital marketing can be tricky. Organic or paid? Display advertising? Email marketing? Social? There are a lot of marketing routes to take and you may not always know what to do once that campaign has gone live. Not all campaigns are going to result in a clear-cut lead or sale, but that doesn't mean that your business isn't going to grow from those digital marketing efforts....
April 21, 2015
Mobilegeddon is here! Since the algorithm announcement, business owners and marketers have had mobile on their mind, some for the first time. The April 21st roll out has been deemed "mobilegeddon" and "mobilepocalypse" due to the significant impact the update is expected to have on mobile search results and rankings across the globe. Here's how it'll impact your business, and how you can take on mobilegeddon!...
April 16, 2015
You know your business inside and out, but when it comes to writing about it, you’re tongue-tied. Figuring out how to explain what you do to the people who need you isn't always easy. At a loss for words? Here’s how to write your website content....
April 14, 2015
Ever get the feeling that no one is seeing your Facebook posts? Due to changes on Facebook, the organic reach of business posts are down. This […]
April 14, 2015
As a business owner, having direct communication with your consumers is essential. Providing an immediate response can create great user experiences. Using tools like Live Chat not only facilitates those immediate responses, but also engages consumers and gains their trust in your company. So now that you've got Live Chat, what can you expect from it?...
April 10, 2015
Local businesses can improve their Search Engine Optimization (SEO) through some basic steps. To help small business owners get found online, we provided simple tips in […]
April 9, 2015
How long should your website’s content be? It could be long and full of keywords, short and sweet for mobile, or somewhere in the middle. When balancing the needs of customers and search engines, is it too long? Too short? Or just right? How long should your content be to provide the right information without overwhelming people?...
April 7, 2015
Social Media is a balancing act: you need to maintain a proper mix of fun, informative, and your own personality to squeeze the most marketing value out of those Facebook and Twitter posts. When done properly, social media allows your customers to gain insight into the people behind the business and the “personality” of your brand. This can be an invaluable marketing tool, but only if you’re doing it the right way. Here are 6 ways you might be doing social media wrong...
April 6, 2015
Heard about the new algorithm? Google is again updating their organic search algorithm. This time, they're looking to reward mobile-friendly websites - and taking aim at websites that are not. All website owners need to understand how best to protect their organic mobile rankings! This new mobile-friendly algorithm update will likely be more impactful than either of the past two updates...
April 2, 2015
So your email marketing campaign went out. You saw an increase in website traffic, in Facebook views, and additional calls started rolling in. How do you keep the conversation going? Learn from your data, repurpose your creative, and take the next steps to make the most of your campaign!...
April 1, 2015
April Fools’ Day gives all of us a great chance to learn, to laugh (especially at ourselves), and interact with each other in a creative and entertaining way. As a business trying to market your brand, the first day in April represents a unique opportunity to break from the mold of traditional content, reach millions (potentially) of people, and get them talking about you!...
March 30, 2015
Do you want to provide the best possible customer service? Of course you do! Tools like live chat help you reach out to customers browsing your website. Provide attention, care, and answer their questions on the spot, boosting your customers' experience on your site, and with your business. Not using Live Chat on your website yet? You should be!...
March 26, 2015
“YOU WIN!” What makes this tiny phrase so hugely important? Winning creates a fun spectacle everyone can enjoy from start to finish? It can also mean huge success for your business. Running contests through social media channels like Facebook and Instagram drives engagement, makes your customers feel involved, and builds your business through leads and loyal fans.
March 24, 2015
Landing pages, if done correctly, will almost always increase your leads. When tied to a campaign, landing pages provide a consistent experience and drive conversions. Landing pages not only generate additional revenue, but also help you gain valuable insights into your ideal customer demographics and adapt your strategies accordingly...
March 19, 2015
When it comes to email marketing, the importance of the subject line cannot be overstated. In 50 characters or less, you’re tasked with conveying a message that’s, at the very least, difficult to ignore. But between balancing brevity, avoiding spammy words, and creating intrigue, there's a lot to juggle. Embrace the simplicity of the task at hand and hint at what’s to be found inside to build interest and leads!...
March 16, 2015
Feeling lucky with your marketing? It doesn't matter! Great digital marketing requires time, effort, and know-how - not luck. Create your own luck! Do the right work behind the scenes, and you’ll get magical results....
March 16, 2015
Learn to leverage web traffic to help your website convert. You put in all that time and effort to build your website, but do you know how your website is really performing? How many people have visited your site? How many pages did they visit? How long did they stay? With analytics reporting, you can use this data to build a better website, see how successful your marketing efforts are, and create a better overall user experience, ultimately leading to more customers and more sales....
March 12, 2015
If you’re starting a business or are looking to improve your company’s brand identity, you might want to start by making a logo. Logos are a critical aspect of your brand helping customers identify you. So we came up with this step-by-step guide that any business owner, regardless of your artistic skills, can use to make a text logo in 9 short steps! ....
March 9, 2015
Help customers find their way! The web is vast and full of information that can be tough to wade through. How are customers ever supposed to find your business amidst all that clutter? Simple! Like Hansel and Gretl and their fabled trail of breadcrumbs, you can help customers find their way to your business with your very own digital marketing “breadcrumbs”...
March 5, 2015
Using social media for your business can be difficult if you don’t know what to do. We commonly get asked “What am I supposed to do […]
March 5, 2015
Whether you reach out to customers on social media, email, or even when they read your website, you're asking them to trust you - to choose you over your competitors. But there’s one problem: trust is something that's EARNED, not just readily handed over. So, the question is: “How can my customers get to know my company, and trust me enough to give me their business?” The answer is video advertising....
March 5, 2015
Big news! Instagram has announced the introduction of clickable ads. These multi-photo carousels allow brands to present beautiful images in sequence for a more engaging experience than one-off photos. Where links have been disallowed in posts, Instagram describes this change as a “new way for brands to tell stories” pleasing businesses and individuals alike...
March 3, 2015
Email marketing does not have to be difficult. The idea itself can sound daunting, but in reality email marketing is just sharing an actionable item with a group of users who should know about it. Constructing this message - and this actionable item - comes down to three basic questions: why, how, and who. If you can answer these three questions, you will be in great position to have an effective email marketing campaign....
February 26, 2015
Social media is a valuable tool for charities and non-profits, providing huge new opportunities for both fundraising and brand interaction. Many non-profits use social media to connect with their target audience in a way that is not as formal as with other mediums, which is a big advantage when trying to engage new audiences. Organizations can now take their cause and make it shareable, leveraging the power and viral nature of social media....
February 24, 2015
Small business owners don’t have a lot of time for marketing. There are simple tricks like improving your SEO in 5 minutes and 5 minute marketing […]
February 24, 2015
Today’s word of mouth marketing often comes through a Facebook post or a Tweet. Are you utilizing your most active, engaged followers? 84% of consumers say their friends and family are their trusted resources and can influence as much as 50% of sales! It’s time to turn your social media followers into brand advocates.
How? Here are a few ideas...
February 19, 2015
We've all heard that size doesn't matter. But does it? Can something as small as a tweet be as effective as something huge like an ebook? Not only can micro-sized content be as good as big pieces at driving engagement, but it can be even better, leading to huge results. It’s not about size - it’s how you use it. And when used properly, micro content can be tremendously powerful....
February 18, 2015
There is no shortage of companies asking small businesses to shell out hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to promote themselves. But if you’re like most […]
February 17, 2015
These days, different marketing platforms are more interconnected than ever, which means it’s time to think about your company’s online presence holistically. Take a page out of LEGO's Branding Bible and you're well on your way to developing a consistent, integrative approach to branding. Much like your physical storefront, there are 3 primary elements that will shape the way consumers perceive your brand:...
February 16, 2015
When your daily routine has become shovel, shiver, repeat, as it has in New England (with 90+ inches of snow in just 3 weeks and a -20 wind chill) digital media may seem like more of a luxury than necessity. But in fact, it has proven to be an essential tool for many in helping survive this epic winter. Digital content allows businesses and government alike to communicate with customers, continue making sales, and provide hours and updates when we're all otherwise up to our eyes in snowbanks.
February 13, 2015
What could be sweeter than 2 marketing tools, working together and perfectly complementing one another’s efforts? Especially when one technique can be paired with another to create a stronger marketing strategy, greater than the sum of it’s parts! These digital sweethearts will make each other (and your marketing strategy) complete...
February 12, 2015
Dark Social. Sounds ominous, right? Defined simply, Dark Social is social sharing done through (previously) untraceable sources like email, private messaging (think texts and GChat), and other mobile information sharing apps. But if you can track where your content goes outside the realm of traditional social media channels, you can harness the power of "word of mouth" marketing...
February 10, 2015
What is a Landing Page? Chances are you've encountered at least a few of them during your time browsing the web. A landing page is simply any page you are brought to after clicking a link from a search engine, tailored to a specific topic and designed to convert fast. Some businesses have seen a 300% conversion increase when testing landing pages as opposed to normal website pages! So how does your business find success with landing pages? These five features are imperative for quality landing pages and will ensure you are maximizing your potential leads:
February 4, 2015
It's no secret that Search Engine Marketing (SEM) can be an effective digital marketing tool. The effectiveness and the ROI of a well-managed SEM campaign is substantial! However, while you may want to bring in another company to help steer the wheel, it's important to ask the right questions to make sure you're staying on track. Here are some conversation points and questions to help ensure your campaign runs smoothly and reaches its absolute maximum potential. Our goal? To have you talking - and sounding - like a true SEM expert....
February 2, 2015
Feel like you’re doing the same thing over and over, and you’re not seeing different results? You’re not crazy - you’re probably just not using your marketing tools effectively! Lucky for you, that’s easy to fix. How? Take a step back, assess your marketing tools and campaigns, and break the Groundhog Day cycle...
January 29, 2015
What's in store for the future of Responsive Web Design? We've covered the history of responsive and present day uses of the technology. So what's next? Yes, even something considered to be the future always has ways to improve. Responsive Server Side (RESS) and responsive typography are two major reasons the future's so bright for responsive, and for your business...
January 28, 2015
GoDaddy is in the dog house over a SuperBowl commercial. The epic marketing flop caused outrage among animal lovers after GoDaddy released their planned SuperBowl XLIX “Journey Home” television commercial on […]
January 27, 2015
Want to set up an e-commerce website for your business? These days, e-commerce is outpacing brick-and-mortar sales by leaps and bounds, thanks to its broad selection, ease of payment, and overall (mobile) convenience. Before you start raking in your digital dollars, however, there are a few elements that are essential to establishing an e-commerce empire. Let’s take a look at each one, and get your business ready to join the digital sales revolution!...
January 26, 2015
Small businesses are built on the passion of their owners. That passion is what creates success. But sometimes mistakes are made along the way. We’ve compiled a list […]
January 22, 2015
In this second part of our series on responsive web design, we’ll explain how to utilize responsive design to better serve your visitors and offer a better user experience on your site. Why make two sites when one could be more powerful, modern and effective? Responsive is pretty powerful design method and can significantly improve your business....
January 20, 2015
Chances are you've heard of Snapchat, though overhearing your 14-year-old son/niece/student discussing its cool factor, or the massive media coverage of the social messaging platform may be the extent of your familiarity. But 2015 may provide you with a much more formal introduction! If its massive user base, new features, and recent round of investments are any indication, 2015 holds big things for Snapchat....
January 15, 2015
From humble beginnings to the standard of high-end, future-proof web design and development, responsive design is crucial for your business website. This three-part series will give an in-depth view of the history and future of responsive, and why you can't afford to miss out on the opportunities it presents....
January 13, 2015
With voters spending an increasing amount of time online, political candidates who ignore their online presence do so at their own risk. Traditional campaign strategies remain essential fundamentals for any candidate, but whether running for dog catcher or president, a strong online presence can add credibility, amplify your voice, and expand your base. Here are some digital media components any campaign can use to boost their online profile...
January 8, 2015
In business, it's important to remember that time is money. Digital marketing and social media allow small businesses to spend their marketing dollars much more efficiently and cost effectively than other types of advertising. Accurate, relevant listings, ads, and social media sites that reach the right consumers, in the right locations are crucial....
January 6, 2015
A common question asked by businesses is: Just how long should my website be? When building a page, or an entire website, you need to make sure that you are addressing the needs of both your potential customer and also of the search engines that will provide traffic to your website. Finding a balance between these two parties can be tricky, but will yield the best results....
January 2, 2015
At the start of any new year, we make wishes and promises for what we’d like to see in our lives in the coming 12 months. This year, resolve to do all that and more for your business. Get started in 2015 with a few Digital New Year’s Resolutions...
December 30, 2014
Video marketing is one of our favorite types of marketing. Videos are a powerful way to engage potential customers and get your business message across. In 2014 we […]
December 29, 2014
2014 brought Twitter users the ability to turn the average 140 character tweet into an engaging blast of content with the option of adding videos, GIFS, emoticons and more, plus indexing to let you search for any tweet ever posted. As the year comes to an end, there have been mentions of more big changes coming to Twitter in the new year. 2015 looks like a big year for the social media giant.....
December 24, 2014
Today, on this Christmas Eve, we have a little digital ditty -- with a holiday twist -- sung to the tune of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer...
December 23, 2014
There is no shortage of companies asking small businesses to shell out hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to promote themselves. But if you’re like most […]
December 22, 2014
As the clock ticks down toward the end of 2014, you're probably busy wrapping presents and wrapping up your marketing plan. But are you ready to kick off your brand and your business in January? Here are a few things to remember as you round out this year's marketing and gear up for 2015...
December 18, 2014
Psychology of Facebook 101: Bringing it back to human fundamentals with your Facebook posts. Facebook business pages should be used to make fans feel like they’re part of an active, engaging, and interesting community. And what better way to make a fan feel included and engaged than to start thinking and feeling like a fan? Put on your psychology caps and let’s get started!...
December 16, 2014
Hanukkah is a holiday filled with fun games, delicious traditional foods, and 8 days of continuous giving. Feeling inspired by the light of the menorah, we're sharing some of our favorite tools to make your online life a little easier. Here are 8 digital marketing gifts in honor of this year's Hanukkah celebration:...
December 15, 2014
Thanks primarily to digital everything, today marketers like you have dozens of communications channels available. But which channels are best for marketing your product, service, or cause? There is no single, correct answer, but there is this one simple and effective process...
December 12, 2014
There is no shortage of companies asking small businesses to shell out hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to promote themselves. But if you’re like most small […]
December 11, 2014
Helpful Holiday Hints:
Take your awesome in-store selection to the web with a shiny new e-commerce site.
This holiday season has proven to be bigger on mobile than ever. Not only are customers browsing online stores on their smartphones and tablets, they’re buying.
How many sales are you missing out on because your shop isn’t online?
Take your store to the web! Your customers will love getting their hands on your cool products from...
December 9, 2014
Business owners know how easily things can go awry when it comes to managing social media sites. We spend a lot of time making sure we engage with our customers during the holidays. Whether it's sending out a holiday card or posting festive photos to social media, you make a conscious effort to put your best foot forward. But what happens when efforts start to unravel? Check out some examples of when things go horribly wrong on social media....
December 8, 2014
Running a small business is difficult. There never seems to be enough time or money to market your company and get the word out about your […]
December 8, 2014
Say goodbye to the .coms, .nets and .orgs -- these Top Level Domains (TLDs) could become a thing of the past. The Internet is now facing the emergence of new generic top level domains (gTLDs) like .company, .tools, and even .dental. So just how can these new gTLD extensions improve your SEO?...
December 5, 2014
Since Black Friday, and the sequential shopping holidays through Cyber Monday, one thing has become increasingly clear: People are shopping online more than ever. And they aren't just shopping online - they’re doing it on mobile. What can we learn from this year’s record-topping digital sales? There’s no better time to go mobile-friendly than right now....
December 4, 2014
Design with mobile in mind! Did you know that 57% of people will abandon a website if it’s difficult to navigate on their phone? Make your website easy to navigate for customers on the go without the tedious pinch-and-zoom....
December 2, 2014
There is no shortage of companies asking small businesses to shell out hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to promote themselves. But if you’re like most small […]
December 1, 2014
Your domain name affects your SEO, so think before you buy! Your website’s domain name (e.g. YourBusiness.com) can have a serious impact on your ability to be found on search engine results pages. So what factors matter when choosing your domain?...
November 26, 2014
Tis the season for turkey, thyme, and being thankful. You can show your thanks to employees through the usual holiday bonuses and staff parties, but what about the very people who keep the lights on and your doors open? How can you show your customers how much you appreciate them this Thanksgiving?...
November 25, 2014
There is no shortage of companies asking small businesses to shell out hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to promote themselves. But if you’re like most small […]
November 24, 2014
Google has become a leader with innovative products and consistent quality. Well now it seems they’re monetizing those products in new ways, which can have serious repercussions for e-retailers who have been leveraging Google Shopping listings. Last month, product listing ad campaigns were automatically upgraded to "Shopping campaigns" What does this mean?....
November 21, 2014
A website is the first chance a small business has to make a good impression online. That’s a tough burden, but it doesn’t have to be! […]
November 20, 2014
When it comes to the written word on the web, there are a few time-tested philosophies that are proven to be effective and engaging both on mobile and off. By using them as a guide, you can create amazing, informative content that not only has personality - and credibility - but converts for leads and sales, providing better ROI to your business....
November 18, 2014
There is no shortage of companies asking small businesses to shell out hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to promote themselves. But if you’re like most small […]
November 18, 2014
Email marketing is a well-known and very effective way to promote products and campaigns. But when email inboxes are packed with promotions, how do you make yours stand out? Email marketing can deliver big success for a small price. Here are 6 tips to make your email marketing campaign more effective...
November 17, 2014
Google is officially dropping the horizontal carousel used to display local search results. Instead, searchers will see a 3-pack of results for searches including hotels, restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment. So what does this update mean for local businesses?...
November 13, 2014
With the holiday season quickly approaching, businesses are gearing up for the final sales push of the year. One way to stay ahead of the game is by using Search Engine Marketing (Pay-Per-Click) campaigns to easily get found by customers online. Let’s take a look at some tips and tricks marketers can follow to get a piece of the holiday spending pie online.....
November 12, 2014
Hard work, passion, and love are at the heart of your business. We know how much effort you put into making your small business succeed and we […]
November 11, 2014
The hardest part of social media marketing is deciding which network is right for you. Let's take a look at the most popular social media sites for businesses - Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+ - to try and assess which one fits you best....
November 4, 2014
With Election Day upon us, we're taking a look at how the face of American politics has changed dramatically over the past decade. What's driving that change? Social media. From ticker tape to retweets, the political landscape has been forever changed by the rise of social media...
October 31, 2014
Don’t be spooked by online marketing tools! We’re debunking myths and revealing the truth behind the monsters that go bump in the virtual night...
October 30, 2014
As part of our Conversations with Propel interview series, the SEO Team took time out to discuss the do’s, don’ts, and what if’s of Search Engine Optimization. From the important factors other than keywords to the future of content, Dave and Katie covered everything you need to know about SEO, and more!...
October 28, 2014
Can Display Advertising be measured in the same ways as a PPC campaign? People often make the mistake of thinking that paid search and display advertising are the same, and can be measured with similar metrics. The truth is that there are a few very important differences between SEM and Display and how they're measured...
October 23, 2014
Many small business owners start out solo. Over time, however, you start to wonder – could I get better marketing results if I used a marketing company? But, how do you know when it’s time to stop doing it yourself? Here are five signs that it may be time to hire a marketer...
October 21, 2014
You’ve heard that websites are the window into a small business. You know that having a presence online is important if you want to grow your […]
October 21, 2014
When it comes to digital marketing, there’s a lot to learn from other local businesses, particularly those in your industry. Who’s doing things right? Take a look at what they’re doing and how they’re making it work, and put that to work for your business. Here are 10 things you can learn from the competition about digital strategy:...
October 17, 2014
How can websites, display ads, and social media help you get out the vote this campaign season? Digital marketing can help your campaign pivot quickly, improve efficiency, amplify your voice, expand your audience, and reduce wasted ad spend – freeing up time and resources that can be used elsewhere....
October 17, 2014
There is no shortage of companies asking small businesses to shell out hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to promote themselves. But if you’re like most […]
October 10, 2014
Small businesses marketing can be confusing. Optimization, social media, bounce rate–what do these words even mean? We’ve put together a this marketing dictionary for you to […]
October 10, 2014
Did you know that 66% of global consumers stopped doing business with a provider due to poor customer service experiences? From in-person conversations to friendly banter on social media, Customer Service Representatives are invaluable to the success of your business. So to wrap up Customer Service Week, we at Propel would like to give a big shout-out to our own beloved team...
October 9, 2014
Millennials also have huge influence over purchasing trends, and represent over $1 trillion in sales. To resonate with them, you must put your faith in following new trends, and commit these 9 Commandments of Millennial Marketing to memory to reach the milk and honey...
October 7, 2014
The acronyms SEO, PPC, and CTR might not mean much to the average local business owner, but they're crucial to your online success. SMBs that embrace digital advertising can expect to be rewarded with a cost-effective way to reach their ideal customers in a more personalized, conversational, and customer-friendly way than traditional advertising ever has...
October 7, 2014
Your website is the key to getting your business found online. You’ve spent valuable time and money making your website a reflection of yourself and your […]
October 2, 2014
How are you spreading the word about your campaign? There’s a whole host of digital marketing tools that can help you get your message out in front of a wide audience. From campaign billboards to social networking, online marketing can be a powerful ally in marketing your message....
September 30, 2014
When a customer is looking for a local product or service, can they easily find your business? Maps and Search utilize the power of Google+ to help users find anything and everything they're looking for in your local area. So where do you start to get found on Google Maps? It all starts with Google+....