Inbound Marketing 101

Say you’re in the market for a new car. Where’s the first place you turn when you’re trying to decide which make and model are best for you? Google.

You enter a simple search - “Safest cars for my family.”

The first result is a well-researched blog article about the top-rated safe cars. Bingo! You found exactly what you were looking for. A couple of other “suggested articles” on the same site catch your attention, and you easily spend a good chunk of time learning about the latest vehicle models on the market.

Then you realize that you’ve been reading insightful information from a car insurance company’s site. Do you think you’ll be more likely to investigate what they have to offer now that they’ve helped you? Absolutely.

What we just described is one of many different approaches that can be taken when utilizing Inbound Marketing tactics.

Although it may seem like an intimidating term, Inbound Marketing’s definition can easily be broken down. It’s about creating branded and relevant content that will bring your audience toward your product or service.

Here are five simple aspects of Inbound Marketing that we’ve found to be the most successful.

Blogging

As expressed in our example, one of the easiest and most effective ways to bring both new and existing consumers to your site is a well-kept blog. Creating fresh and relevant content that your user will find helpful is sure to be the beginning of a long-lasting relationship, no matter the distance.

Social Media

What about after you’ve sparked a great connection? We know of a few ways that can keep the flame alive. With 74% of online adult Americans active on social media, we consider this an optimal medium. Make sure to integrate all of your social media platforms. If you publish a blog, share it on LinkedIn and Facebook. Always engage with your audience through direct calls to action (CTA) and by providing them with information that they’ll want to share with their friends.

Email Marketing

Want to really seal the deal? Then follow-up on any previous encounter with a personally-tailored email. A visitor signs up for your newsletter? Email. A visitor downloads an info sheet? Email. A visitor puts items in a shopping cart but doesn’t purchase? Email. Using email marketing will ensure the same effect as that of sending a fresh bouquet of flowers to a new crush.

Search Engine Optimization

But how will users learn about all of your great qualities if they’ve never heard of you? Since the majority of consumers begin their buying process with an online search, it’s important that your site appears in the list of results. Make sure each page within your site is up to recent SEO standards, and we guarantee you’ll make heads turn.

Search Engine Marketing

What if you’re still not seeing the results you desire? Search Engine Marketing (SEM) is a way to boost your search engine ranking with the use of paid advertising. This includes sponsored content and pay-per-click (PPC) ads. With PPC ads, you have the ability to advertise your business to anyone in your target audience who performs relevant searches. We encourage you to put in a little bit of cash because you’re worth it!

Need help planning and implementing an Inbound Marketing strategy? Contact us.