Inbound marketing strategy

Flexibility for change  

One of the most prominent things we’ve noticed with businesses during these unprecedented times that COVID-19 has impacted on us is that we’re adaptable to change.   

Local businesses evolve 

We’ve touched on video conferencing as many businesses, who are able to, have adapted to working from home. But where businesses rely on footfall to physical premises, they too have evolved. We’ve been amazed and in awe of the ingenuity of locally businesses here in Croydon. As we’re sure you are too in your local areas.  

From bars, restaurants and cafes so quickly turning to providing online delivery or  takeaway options. People want these places to survive. We all want to return to normal as soon as possible so having the ability to support and buy where we can is great all round. 

The arts, so used to collaboration face to face, they too have had events canceled and have switched to total reliance on online selling (#artistspledge has caught everyones attention – read about it on Instagram).  

These are only two sector examples. It goes without saying that this is affecting everyone.   

Flexible working  

The term flexible in business is often heard. Whether that be flexible working or a flexible software solution that your team can create dashboard views that suit their individual preferences. Whatever, flexible is a prevalent term.  

But for so many of us, this had not been tested to the degree we see today. For many office-based companies working remotely was probably seeping into the normal routine anyway, but evern so it’s still a dramatic shift for many.  

Perhaps before now we didn’t truly understand the term ‘flexible working’. It’s not just about the ability to work at home, remotely and when suitable for you. It’s so much more. It’s about adapting to change swiftly for the benefit of the business and its target audience – whatever sector you work in. It’s about how you solve the challenges your target audience is facing. What solution you can offer them within your capability.   

Seeing how all companies are changing to cater for their customers and clients, in such a short space of time, has been heartwarming. It’s not only about businesses surviving, it’s so much more – it’s about community being at the heart. 

Keeping present in a digital world 

Now, more than ever, the solutions offered by the digital world are paramount for keeping businesses in the public eye.  

Digital marketing has always needed to be flexible. These marketing solutions are not just plug and play (read our blog on it’s not just about social media to get more of our thoughts on that). Digital marketing forms part of your inbound marketing strategy and lead generation. It’s about a package of tools that you switch up or down according to metrics, campaigns and your goals.  

Ultimately , you want visitors to your website, but how do you get them there? This is where you need the flexibility to adapt to change and perhaps take the time to act on implementing marketing activity now, so that in a few months’ time, your continued online presence will reap dividends as search engines remember you. Just like the local shops, bars, pubs and art groups, just because you do not have your physical premises does not mean you should not and can’t be seen.  

Digital marketing resources for your virtual business  

Here’s our resources to help you with inbound digital marketing. We’re also able to hold a video call with you to chat through some quick online marketing wins you could implement to help your business in the long-term.  

The Digital Marketing Tools to help you engage. A mix and match approach will help maximise your opportunities. Chat to us about the what each entail and what may be the best fit for you so that you can form a digital marketing plan.   

  1. Website design & Development  
  2. Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)  
  3. Social Media Marketing  
  4. Pay Per Click (PPC)  
  5. Remarketing / Banner advertising  
  6. Email Marketing  
  7. Content Marketing  
  8. Marketing Automation    
Man remote working video conference

Is Zoom the new office?

As we wake each day to new curbs and change in our everyday routine as a result of the coronavirus, many of us will now be working from home and getting used to social distancing. Yet somehow, are you finding that you’re more social than ever?

Working from an office base, communication on email still seems to be de rigueur. With a favour towards regular face to face meetings. Now, as many people adjust to remote working from home, here’s some tips on video conferencing.

Video conferencing apps

Well, video conferencing is not new, and it has been used by many businesses well before now. It’s allowed firms to be global when perhaps they may be based in Croydon in the UK.

Smart Cow had already started holding video meetings where distance between clients was an issue and as a great way to share screens and talk through work. But for many businesses, they will be starting to use this method for the first time. Not just for their work, but also for catching up with friends and family.

Zoom seems to be coming up top of the list for video apps. From business meetings to family drinks through to bands continuing to gig, the use of Zoom seems to be ticking all these boxes. Visit https://zoom.us/ – it offers a free sign up option.

If you’re finding it a bit daunting then Techtrader has a step by step guide on how to set up your Zoom video conferencing.

Microsoft teams is also a popular choice for businesses. Part of the Office 365 suite which includes Outlook, Cloud based Sharepoint and your Office stalwarts – Word, PowerPoint and Excel. It allows work collaboration in real-time but also offers mobile audio and video.

Check out this comprehensive list from PC Magazine featuring the best video conferencing software to find out what may be right for your business.

With the change in your daily routine, now is a good time to explore options for your business. Using video conferencing with colleagues is a great way to share ideas and thoughts for the business and how you can continue to maintain presence in a digital world.  

Further resources