Tag: small business

Why Local Marketing Matters

And How You Can Use Local Marketing To Boost Your Business

Local marketing, or hyper-local marketing, targets customers within a specific area. This approach allows businesses to stand out and be more accessible to potential customers nearby. For example, when people in your area search for services, having strong local visibility ensures your business is one of the first they see. 

There are several reasons to consider a local marketing strategy: 

  1. Cost-Effective: Local marketing efforts can be more budget-friendly than broad campaigns, allowing you to focus on the most relevant audience for your business. 
  2. Higher Engagement: Customers often feel a stronger connection to local businesses, making them more likely to engage, leave reviews, and spread the word.
  3. Better ROI: With targeted campaigns, you’re reaching people more likely to need your service, resulting in better conversions and a higher return on investment. 

 

How can you Advertise Locally? 

 

Leverage Local SEO for More Visibility 

Local SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is essential for helping your business show up in online searches within your area. By optimising your website and online presence for local search, you’ll reach customers who are actively searching for services you provide. 

  • Google My Business: Setting up or optimizing your Google My Business profile is a crucial step. Ensure your information is complete and accurate, including your business hours, contact info, and location. 
  • Local Keywords: Include location-specific keywords on your website and blog to improve search engine visibility. For example, a dog groomer in Bristol might use keywords like “Bristol dog grooming” or “dog groomer near me.” 
  • Customer Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews. Positive reviews boost credibility and improve your ranking on Google’s local search results. 

 

Use Print Marketing to Reach Local Audiences 

Print marketing remains an impactful way to reach local customers directly. Flyers, business cards, and local directories are all effective ways to advertise your business within the community. 

  • Direct Mail Campaigns: Target neighborhoods in your area with promotional offers, service updates, or seasonal deals. 
  • Flyers & Posters: Partner with other local businesses, like cafes or community centers, to display your materials in places where your target audience frequents. 
  • Local Directories: Listing your business in a local directory like Local Pages can significantly boost your visibility and reach in nearby areas, making it easier for customers to find you. 

 

Get Involved with the Community 

Engaging with your community not only builds a strong local reputation but also establishes trust with potential customers. Here are some ways to connect: 

  • Sponsor Local Events: Support local sports teams, schools, or community events. Sponsorships show that you’re invested in the community, increasing goodwill and brand awareness. 
  • Partner with Local Businesses: Collaborate with other local businesses on joint promotions or events. For example, a dog groomer could team up with a pet store for a co-hosted pet care day. 
  • Volunteer: Get involved in community service projects or volunteer for local initiatives. This not only helps your community but also builds relationships with residents and other local businesses. 

 

Run Geo-Targeted Digital Ads 

Geo-targeted digital ads allow you to focus your advertising budget on a specific geographic area, ensuring your message reaches local customers. Platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads make it easy to set up location-based targeting. 

  • Google Ads with Location Targeting: Run pay-per-click (PPC) ads that focus on users within a specific radius of your business. You can also optimise ad copy to mention your city or region. 
  • Social Media Ads: Platforms like Facebook and Instagram allow for highly specific location targeting. You can run ads that only show up for users within certain zip codes or even miles from your location. 
  • Localised Offers: Promote special deals or discounts to those in the immediate area. Localised offers make your ads even more relevant, increasing the likelihood of engagement and conversions. 

 

Optimise for Mobile Users 

Many local searches are performed on mobile devices, so it’s essential that your website and ads are optimised for mobile users. Mobile-friendly content makes it easy for customers to find you on the go. 

  • Responsive Website Design: Ensure your website looks and functions well on mobile devices. A mobile-optimised site loads quickly and has a clean, easy-to-navigate layout. 
  • Clickable Contact Info: Make it easy for mobile users to contact you by adding clickable phone numbers and map links to your website. 
  • Mobile Ads: Consider running mobile-optimised ads, especially on social media, to capture users who are searching for services in the area. 

 

How Local Pages Can Help 

At Local Pages, we specialize in helping small businesses strengthen their local presence through a mix of print, digital, and design services. We understand the needs of businesses and work closely with you to tailor strategies that suit your unique goals. From listing your business in our directory to creating targeted ads, we’re here to help you connect with your community and grow your brand. 

Ready to attract more local customers and expand your business? Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s work together to give your business the local advantage! 

 

Visit The Little Blue Blog for more insights and tips on growing your business through local marketing. Let’s make your brand the go-to in your community! 

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Does Your Business Need a Makeover?

How Print, Digital, and Design Services Can Transform Your Brand

In a competitive marketplace, your business needs to stand out more than ever. Whether you’re a tradesman, dog groomer, or small business owner, staying fresh and relevant is key to attracting new customers and keeping existing ones engaged. But how do you know if your business is in need of a makeover? More importantly, what changes can you make to give it the boost it needs? 

In this blog post, we’ll explore how giving your business a makeover with print, digital marketing, and design services can enhance your brand, improve customer experience, and drive growth. 

Signs Your Business Might Need a Makeover 

Before diving into solutions, let’s first identify some common signs that your business might need a refresh: 

  • Outdated branding: If your logo, business cards, or website design look outdated, it could be time for a fresh new look. 
  • Inconsistent customer experience: If your print materials don’t align with your digital presence, customers might feel confused or disengaged. 
  • Lack of online visibility: Struggling to get noticed online or rank well in search results? You may need a digital marketing boost. 
  • Declining engagement: If fewer people are interacting with your business, whether on social media or in person, a new marketing strategy might help re-energise your brand. 

If any of these signs sound familiar, a makeover could be exactly what your business needs. 

The Power of Print: A Tangible Connection with Customers 

Even in our digital age, print marketing remains a powerful tool for small businesses. Printed materials like business cards, flyers, brochures, and direct mail provide a physical connection between your brand and your customers. They can leave a lasting impression, especially when they’re well-designed and professionally produced. 

Here’s how a print makeover can help your business: 

  • Professional designs: Well-designed print materials immediately elevate your brand, making it appear more polished and trustworthy. 
  • Consistency: Updating your print designs to match your digital branding creates a seamless customer experience across all touchpoints. 
  • Targeted marketing: Use flyers or direct mail campaigns to target specific local areas and reach potential customers who might not be online. 

With fresh, cohesive print materials, your business will look modern and professional, which can inspire more trust from potential clients. 

Digital Marketing: Expanding Your Reach Online 

If your business isn’t taking full advantage of digital marketing, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity to reach new customers. A digital marketing makeover could include everything from a revamped website to a new social media strategy and even paid advertising campaigns. 

Here’s how we can help you modernise your digital presence: 

  • Website redesign: Your website is your digital storefront, and it needs to reflect the quality of your services. We offer custom website designs that are user-friendly, mobile-optimised, and tailored to your brand. 
  • Search engine optimization (SEO): Improving your website’s SEO will help you rank higher in search engine results, making it easier for potential customers to find you. 
  • Paid digital advertising: Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and other paid advertising platforms allow you to target your ideal audience with precision, driving more qualified traffic to your business. 
  • Social media management: A consistent, engaging social media presence is essential for connecting with today’s customers. We can help you craft posts that not only promote your services but also foster engagement with your audience. 

With the right digital strategies in place, you can reach more customers, grow your brand, and increase inquiries. 

Design Services: Make a Lasting Impression 

A strong brand identity starts with great design. From your logo to your website layout and marketing materials, design plays a huge role in how your business is perceived. If your brand looks inconsistent, unprofessional, or outdated, it may be time for a design refresh. 

Here’s how we can help transform your brand’s design: 

  • Logo redesign: If your logo looks old-fashioned or doesn’t represent your business anymore, a logo redesign can breathe new life into your brand. 
  • Brand identity overhaul: We create cohesive branding packages, ensuring that your colors, fonts, and overall style are consistent across all platforms—online and offline. 
  • Website design: A visually appealing, easy-to-navigate website is essential for making a great first impression. We’ll work with you to design a site that reflects your unique business and attracts customers. 

Whether it’s a fresh new logo or a complete rebrand, investing in high-quality design services can significantly improve how customers view and interact with your business. 

How We Can Help You Transform Your Business 

At Local Pages, we specialise in offering print, digital marketing, and design services that give your business the makeover it needs to thrive. We know that every business is unique, so we work closely with you to understand your goals and create a plan tailored specifically to your needs. Whether you’re looking for a small refresh or a complete rebrand, we’re here to help. 

Ready for Your Business Makeover? 

If you think it’s time to give your business a fresh new look and attract more customers, we’re here to help. With our print, digital, and design services, we’ll work with you to create a brand identity that’s modern, cohesive, and effective. 

Visit The Little Blue Blog for more insights or contact us today for a free consultation at 0117 923 1122 or info@localpages.co.uk. Let’s give your business the makeover it deserves! screenshot-2024-10-22-115307

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Digital Marketing Must-Haves for Local Businesses going into 2025

Elevate your digital presence in 2025

As a local business owner – whether you’re a tradesman, hairstylist, dog groomer, or restaurant owner – having a strong online presence is crucial. It’s not enough to have a website and a Facebook page; in the growing and developing online world it’s important to do as much as you can to get your business found online. Here are four essential digital marketing elements to help your local business thrive in 2024: 

 

1.Google Business Profile Optimization

Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is a free tool that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google, including Search and Maps – it’s the little box that appears on the tight when Googling a business. It’s crucial for local SEO (see below) and helps customers find and connect with your business. Google Business Profile is often the first point of contact for potential customers. It’s important you keep on top of your page by: 

  • Go to google.com/business and claim your listing if you haven’t already! A good way to check is opening a tab in incognito mode and searching up your business 
  • Keep your information up-to-date (hours, services, contact details) 
  • Regularly post updates, offers, and photos 
  • Encourage and respond to customer reviews 

 

2. Omnichannel Marketing 

Omnichannel Marketing is all about creating a seamless experience for your customers across all touchpoints – both online and offline, whether they’re browsing your website, receiving emails or checking your social media. For local businesses, this means connecting your physical location, website, social media and customer service efforts: 

  • Ensure consistent messaging across social media, email, and your website, including consistent branding and voice. For more tips on how to build and maintain your brand, you can read our help guide here 
  • Implement cross-channel retargeting strategies for customers that leave your website or social media without taking action 
  • Use customer data to provide personalized experiences regardless of the platform 

 

3. Local SEO Strategy 

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is probably the most important thing to consider when trying to attract more website visitors. Essentially, you want your website to appear at the very top of all search results when a key word or phrase is searched on Google. There’s a couple things you can do to appear more often in those organic search results locally: 

  • Use location-based keywords (e.g., “hairstylist in [Your City]”) 
  • Create location-specific pages on your website 
  • Build citations on local business directories 

4. Online Booking and Payment Systems 

Convenience is the number one seller – the easier it is to reach you and buy your product/service – the better. Make it easy for customers to do business with you: 

  • Implement an online booking system for appointments 
  • Offer contactless payment options (cash is not widely used anymore!) 
  • Consider a loyalty program to encourage repeat business 
  • A fully operational e-commerce website for goods and products 

 

By incorporating these digital marketing must-haves, you’ll be well-equipped to attract and retain local customers in the increasingly digital marketplace of 2024, going into 2025. The upcoming New Year is a good time to consider evaluating and expanding your digital marketing strategy.  

Local Pages offers free consultations about your marketing needs. We pride ourselves on our bespoke approach, so don’t wait and level up your digital presence in 2025! Book a consultation here. 

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What Is PPC and Is It Right For You?

As a business owner, you may have heard the term PPC floating around in digital marketing conversations, but what exactly is PPC, and how can it benefit your business? At Local Pages, alongside our print directories and digital products, we offer a comprehensive Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising service to help your business get found by potential customers online. In this article, we’ll explain what PPC is and help you decide if it’s the right strategy for you.

What is PPC?

PPC stands for Pay-Per-Click; a type of online advertising where you pay a fee each time someone clicks on your ad. Instead of trying to “earn” traffic organically, PPC allows you to buy visits to your website, ensuring your business gets immediate visibility in search results, social media, or other digital platforms. The most popular form of PPC is Google Ads, where advertisers bid on specific keywords to have their ads appear at the top of Google’s search results.

In simple terms – you’re paying to get in front of people searching for your products or services, and you only pay when someone takes action by clicking on your ad.

How Does PPC Work?

PPC advertising is based on a bidding system. Advertisers bid on keywords that are relevant to their business, and when a user searches for that keyword, an auction is triggered. Ads are displayed based on factors like:

  • Bid Amount: How much you’re willing to pay per click.
  • Ad Quality: Google and other platforms take into account the relevance of your ad, landing page quality, and how likely users are to click on it.

If your ad wins the auction, it will appear in the search results or other online platforms. When users click on your ad, they are directed to your website, and you’re charged for that click.

What Are the Benefits of PPC?

PPC offers a range of benefits that can give your business a competitive edge:

  1. Instant Visibility: Unlike SEO (Search Engine Optimization), which can take months to see results, PPC provides almost immediate exposure in search engines like Google or on social media platforms.
  2. Highly Targeted: PPC allows you to target specific audiences by choosing keywords, demographics, geographic locations, device types, and even the time of day when your ads are displayed.
  3. Cost Control: With PPC, you have complete control over your budget. You set a daily or monthly cap on how much you’re willing to spend, and once you hit that limit, your ads will stop showing, ensuring you never overspend.
  4. Measurable Results: PPC campaigns provide detailed insights into performance metrics, such as clicks, conversions, and the cost per click. This makes it easy to track your return on investment (ROI) and fine-tune your campaigns for better results.
  5. Increased Traffic & Sales: Since PPC ads are often shown at the top of search results, you can drive targeted traffic to your website quickly, increasing the chances of converting visitors into paying customers.

Is PPC Right for You?

Now that you know how PPC works and its benefits, the next question is whether it’s the right fit for your business. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Your Business Goals

If your goal is to quickly drive traffic to your website or generate leads, PPC is an excellent choice. It’s particularly effective for e-commerce businesses, service-based companies, or any business looking for immediate results.

2. Your Budget

PPC allows flexibility in terms of budget, but it’s important to have a strategy in place. If you have the budget to compete in a competitive market and you’re comfortable with paying for each click, PPC could be a strong addition to your marketing efforts. However, it’s vital to remember that while PPC can drive immediate traffic, it can be expensive if not managed well.

3. Your Industry

PPC can work well in various industries, but some sectors can be more competitive (and costly) than others. For example, legal and financial services often face high costs per click due to the competitive nature of their industries.

4. Your Marketing Mix

PPC should be seen as part of a broader marketing strategy. If you’re already doing SEO, paid social media advertising, or using a printed directory like the Little Blue Books to reach your audience, PPC can complement these efforts and help you dominate search results.

PPC with Local Pages

At Local Pages, we provide a complete range of digital marketing solutions to complement your print directory advertising. Our PPC service is designed to help your business stand out in an increasingly crowded online marketplace. We take care of everything, from keyword research and ad creation to ongoing campaign management and optimization, ensuring you get the best results for your budget.

If you’re unsure whether PPC is the right fit for your business, don’t worry. We offer free consultations and audits to help you evaluate your options and create a marketing strategy tailored to your needs.

Conclusion

PPC can be an incredibly powerful tool for businesses looking to increase visibility and drive traffic online. However, like any marketing strategy, it requires careful planning and management to ensure it delivers a return on investment. If you’re looking to explore how PPC can work for your business, get in touch with our team at Local Pages today. We’re here to help you navigate the digital marketing landscape and find the right solution for your business.

Schedule a free consultation here.

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Reaching Success

Birch Hall Pennant Quarry and Cotswold Quarry's Digital Transformation with LP Digital

In today’s digital landscape, having a strong online presence is crucial for business success and visibility. Birch Hall Pennant Quarry and Cotswold Quarry, two sister businesses with a rich history, recognized this need early on. Their journey with LP Digital began with the creation of the Little Blue Books, marking the beginning of their shift from traditional print advertising to a dynamic digital approach.

The Challenge

As Birch Hall Pennant Quarry and Cotswold Quarry sought to modernize their advertising strategy, they faced several key challenges:

  1. Building a Dual-Function Website: They needed a sister website that could effectively split into two distinct but interconnected platforms, each fully operational and optimized for search engine visibility.
  2. Transitioning to Digital Advertising: Moving away from print to embrace digital advertising required a strategic overhaul.
  3. Ensuring Optimal SEO Performance: Comprehensive and transparent SEO services were essential to boost their Google rankings and attract more traffic.

The Solution

LP Digital stepped in with a tailored solution to address these challenges:

  1. Development of a Comprehensive E-Commerce Website: We built a fully operational e-commerce website for both quarries, designed to handle their unique needs while facilitating a seamless user experience.
  2. Ongoing Monitoring and Optimization: To ensure the website’s effectiveness, we implemented continuous tracking of footfall and held monthly meetings with the clients. This proactive approach allowed us to make timely adjustments and keep everything running at peak efficiency.
  3. Immediate Positive Impact: Within just two weeks of launching the new digital strategy, both quarries began seeing a surge in enquiries and positive results.

Insights

Throughout this journey, several key insights emerged:

  • Exclusive Digital Presence: Birch Hall Pennant Quarry and Cotswold Quarry have chosen to focus solely on digital advertising, forgoing other advertising channels.
  • Hands-On Support: Our team’s commitment to ensuring the highest standard of work was a significant factor in their satisfaction with our services.
  • Proactive Partnership: The relationship between LP Digital and the quarries has been described as exceptionally positive and proactive, highlighting the effectiveness of our collaborative approach.

 

‘Held our hand all the way through.’

 

Birch Hall Pennant Quarry and Cotswold Quarry’s transition to digital advertising has been a resounding success. Thanks to LP Digital’s expertise and dedicated support, both businesses now enjoy enhanced online visibility, increased customer engagement, and a robust digital presence. This success story underscores the power of embracing digital solutions in today’s business environment and the value of a proactive, supportive partnership.

 

You can view their website here.

Schedule a free consultation about your digital advertising needs here.

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How to Grow Your Customer Base

A Guide to Expanding Your Business

In today’s competitive market, businesses of all sizes are constantly seeking ways to attract new customers while retaining their existing ones. If you find yourself struggling to grow your customer base, you’re not alone. The good news is that with the right strategies in place, you can boost inquiries and increase revenue. Here’s a practical guide to help you get started.

 

Understanding Your Audience

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The first step in growing your customer base is understanding who your customers are and what they want. By gaining insights into their preferences and shopping habits, you can tailor your marketing efforts to meet their needs effectively. This involves everything from the design and format of your website and social media posts to the way you communicate with your customers.

For instance, if you run a modern clothing brand, your target audience might be younger individuals aged 16-30 who are more likely to engage through social media rather than traditional phone calls or emails. On the other hand, a company that installs safety and alarm systems would typically target older homeowners aged 30-60, who may prefer communication via phone or email. Identifying key aspects of your audience allows you to focus your efforts on the channels that will resonate most with potential customers.

 

Implementing a Referral System

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Word of mouth remains one of the most powerful marketing tools available. By turning your loyal customers into brand advocates, you can gain new customers without significant marketing costs. Implementing a referral system where existing customers receive a discount or freebie for referring new clients can be an effective way to encourage this behavior. When there’s something in it for them, your current customers are more likely to spread the word about your business.

 

Showcasing Feedback and Success Stories

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Showcasing the success of your services can be a compelling way to attract new customers. For example, if you’ve recently completed a project, like fixing a fence, share that story on your website, blog, or social media channels. Potential customers look for proof that you’re reliable and trustworthy, and real-life success stories can provide that assurance.

Additionally, gathering feedback from your customers can help you improve your services and build credibility. You can collect feedback through surveys, direct messages, or even casual conversations. Sharing positive feedback not only enhances your brand’s reputation but also provides content that demonstrates your reliability.

 

Prioritizing Customer Service

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It might seem obvious, but exceptional customer service is crucial for growing your customer base. Excellent customer service not only helps retain existing customers but also turns them into repeat customers and brand advocates. By promptly addressing customer concerns, being attentive to their needs, and going above and beyond in service delivery, you can create a loyal customer base that will refer others to your business.

 

Offering Special Promotions

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Everyone loves a good deal. Offering special promotions, discounts, or limited-time offers can create a sense of urgency that encourages potential customers to make a purchase. Promotions can also be used to reward loyal customers, which helps to strengthen their relationship with your brand. Whether it’s a seasonal sale or a first-time customer discount, special offers can be a powerful tool to attract and retain customers.

 

Growing Your Digital and Social Platforms

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In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is non-negotiable. Growing your digital and social media platforms can significantly expand your reach and connect you with a larger audience. Regularly posting engaging content, running targeted ads, and interacting with your followers are all effective ways to build your online presence. Consider investing in search engine optimization (SEO) to ensure that your website ranks well in search results, making it easier for potential customers to find you.

 

Conclusion

Growing your audience base is an ongoing process that requires a deep understanding of your audience, strategic marketing efforts, and a commitment to excellent customer service. By implementing the strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to attracting new customers and boosting your business’s revenue. Remember, growth doesn’t happen overnight, but with persistence and the right approach, you’ll see your customer base expand over time.

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Empowering Success with Local Pages; A Digital Revolution

Located in Mangotsfield, Bristol, Deja Vu Training Academy operates under a clear mission: “Be competent and confident with Deja Vu Training.” The academy is dedicated to providing top-tier training in the ever-evolving field of non-surgical aesthetics. With a strong commitment to supporting every pupil and ensuring the safety of future clients, Deja Vu Training Academy stands out for its meticulous approach and high standards.

At the helm is CEO Rita; a seasoned expert with over 45 years of experience. Her expertise has earned her the esteemed title of Key Opinion Leader at Intraline Medical Aesthetics. Alongside Jemma, the Office Manager, Rita ensures that students receive the education and support necessary to thrive in the aesthetics industry. You can learn more about Rita’s journey and the exceptional work done at Deja Vu Training [here].

Challenge

Rita’s partnership with Local Pages began from a referral. After losing access to her business website, Rita was faced with the daunting task of rebuilding Deja Vu’s online presence. Although the Training Academy had all the essential tools to succeed, Rita recognized the importance of expanding her reach to a broader audience.

Solution

We stepped in to create a new, user-friendly website for Deja Vu Training Academy and have since provided ongoing support to ensure its success. Our comprehensive SEO services played a crucial role in enhancing the academy’s online visibility, driving new business, and helping Deja Vu establish a strong digital presence.

Insights

In today’s highly competitive market, having a robust online presence is essential. A well-designed website is just the beginning—ranking that site through strategic keyword targeting is where the real challenge lies. At Local Pages, we take pride in our personalized approach, tailoring our services to meet the unique needs and stories of each client.

Learn more about our Digital Services and schedule a free consultation [here].

“I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the exceptional work Sion has done in designing my website. It’s user-friendly, easy to update, and Sion is always there when I need assistance. My journey with Local Pages began when someone maliciously deleted my business website. It was a devastating blow, but Sion and his team went above and beyond to restore my business’s online presence. Their continuous support and patience with my frequent calls and emails were invaluable. I wholeheartedly recommend Sion and Local Pages without hesitation. Thank you! —Rita, Deja Vu Aesthetic Training Academy”

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Brand Identity: How to Build and Maintain Your Brand

Tactics and Tips for a Stronger Online Presence

Brand Awareness is, in short, the extent to which your business is recognized. Brand identity is your logo, colours, what you offer, your message, services, among other features.

Why is it important? Your brand identity is your first touchpoint with a potential customer – the stronger the image of your brand in someone’s mind, the more likely they are to engage with you. Unknown businesses aren’t seen as trustworthy – so how do you go about raising the profile of your business and gaining more loyal customers?

  1. Brand Accessibility
  2. Building Your Brand
  3. Strengthening Your Brand
  4. Examples of Strong Brand Identity

Brand Accessibility

identity-2When developing or auditing your brand identity, be sure to read the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to ensure that your published content (text, images, sound, etc.) is accessible to everyone. This will ensure you don’t lose potential customers due to flaws in design and adaptability for mobile phones.

Building Your Brand

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So – how do you actually go about building a brand?

Audience: A good first consideration is always your audience. The content you post online, the logo and the colours should resonate with your audience as much as possible. For example, pink and purple are probably not the best colours for an accounting firm, but will resonate with women and younger teenage girls when purchasing handmade products or clothing. Considering and weighing audience behaviors might be tricky at first, but the more previous customer interactions you had the easier this should be. Analyzing age, income, occupation and location is a good first step.

Visual Identity: That is the nitty gritty of design – your logo, colours, pictures, mottos, theme songs; anything you can think of that represents your brand. Deciding on design features might be a little daunting, but originality that reflects audience behaviours will yield results. Ask yourself the following questions:

  • What is the mission of your brand?
  • What makes you different from your competitors?
  • How do you want customers to experience your brand/product/service?
  • What kind of emotions are you hoping to evoke?

Consistent Message: That is, your tone and message across all platforms. Contradicting statements, message or voice will decrease your brand awareness. Tone should reflect the uniqueness of your business/service and communicated appropriately across all platforms you use.

Strengthening Your Brand

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So, you built your logo, decided on a colour palette and the purpose is clear in your mind. How do we them strengthen it?

Multi Channel Presence: that is a secure foothold in the door with different social media apps, emails, SMS and non-digital tools is the key to growing your brand as you will reach more customers and start building a trusting relationship. Remember – your presence and content should be adapted to each medium accordingly.

Community Connection: The easiest way to build trust between potential customers and your business is community connection; that is the way your brand interacts with the world around us and the community. This could be as simple as customer testimonials that show your brand is trustworthy, or could stretch beyond that into social causes or local, community-oriented issues. This could simply be acknowledgement of community struggles, a recent event or issue or contribution to the community through donations or other aid.

Face to your brand: Adding a face to your brand will humanize your business and make you seem more approachable and trustworthy. Whether through pictures of your employees or using personal language, any form of direct interaction will bring you closer to your customers.

Examples of Strong Brand Identity

Apple

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The first thought that comes to mind when thinking Apple, or so Apple would like, is innovation and reinvention. Through every update and new product launch, at the forefront we see the portrayal of creating something new and different every time, whether the products released are actually innovative is a different story. Their entire brand is cutting-edge, inviting their customers to join them at the brink of innovation and always breaking the mold.

Coca-Cola

coca-cola

Besides being the most established and longest-going fizzy drink company, their brand identity is so strong that just the colour red is often associated with Coke. They’ve aligned themselves with the feeling of happiness and enjoyment through their advertising and presence online, which is often kept lighthearted and casual. The motto ‘A Coke and a smile’ sums up their values very clearly, and even if you are not an avid enjoyer of the drink, ask yourself how often do you think of coke on a daily basis.

Ikea

ikea

Ikea created an image of themselves as simple and family-oriented, and they stay in that category. From simple instructions when building the furniture to the simple and lighthearted advertising, Ikea is the first stop when shopping for furniture as it is meant to appeal to everyday people. Their tagline ‘Wonderful Everyday’ reflects their one-stop-shop ideology.

Dove

dove

A very simple yet elegant brand targeted towards woman and girls is a prime example of effective branding. Their campaigns focus on empowering women and addressing issues such as self-esteem, body image and equality. They are a prime example of involvement in social issues to strengthen their community presence. Dove promotes honesty and optimism, embracing natural beauty through their products.

How Can We Help?

If you’re struggling with brand identity and developing your business identity, Local Pages is here to help! You can schedule a free consultation by clicking here.

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Slowing Down

Are you too busy?

We all live incredibly busy lives, often at 100mph without even registering what we’re doing and without being in the moment.  We have jobs, there may be children to take to school and take to activities or parties, we might go to the gym, try and have a social life and then spend quality time with our loved ones. 

There are a few simple things that you can take on board to start to slow down and maybe have time to think about self care – you might be like me and looking after number 1 goes to the bottom of the ‘to-do list’ every single day.

Switching off

If you run your own business, chances are you have your emails synced with your mobile phone meaning that you are ALWAYS connected to work.  You may have a ‘9-5 job’ where you have the same situation.  Try not to reply to work emails out of office hours (i.e. after 6pm).  We need to be able to switch off from work mode in the evenings and weekends allowing my already busy minds to unwind.

Slowing down

After a break from work or you’re normal routine, it’s obviously going to be busy catching up with emails and client work.  For some, a list is the ultimate organisation tool – ploughing through to tick everything off is extremely satisfying! However, we need to remind ourselves that not everything needs to be done right this instant.  Something’s can wait until tomorrow, next week or even next month.

Saying no

This leads on from slowing down. Some weeks our diaries are packed with work appointments, life appointments and social gatherings.  Stop and think about what you are saying yes to and start to say no to every invite or meeting.  We’re not going to miss out.  Busy people often find it difficult to just sit and relax some times, doing nothing.  Work on this, if only for 15 minutes day but it again allows you start to unwind and relax.

None of these points are new and groundbreaking, but essentially we want to keep that chilled holiday mode going for as long as possible!!

I think sometimes we also just need to take a step back and look at how BUSY we’ve become.

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Top 5 Marketing Trends for 2018

Our Top 5 Marketing Trends for 2018

With 2018 fast approaching we have been exploring New Marketing trends to look out for in 2018.

Here we discuss the 5 trends we believe will be the most influential next year. Let us know your thoughts…

 

 

Augmented Reality 

augmented-reality

Augmented Reality is a fascinating way of enhancing a version of reality, created by overlaying digital information onto an image.  It allows consumers to not simply imagine but actually see potential purchases & designs in ‘real life’, aiding quicker and slicker purchasing.

Brands are quickly jumping on board. IKEA has rolled out an App called Place, which allows customers to preview furniture in their homes before they buy, increasing conversion and customer satisfaction.

This year the new iPhone 8 and iPhone X have also launched with new augmented reality experiences, which will inevitably encourage social media channels to follow suit with new ways of integrating AR onto their platforms.

There is a wide selection of Augmented Reality tools readily available to help businesses achieve 3 main goals:

  1. Streamline and drive sales
  2. Increase engagement
  3. Connect Print & Digital mediums

With Brands finding it difficult to stand out from the crowd, Augmented Reality is being recognised as a powerful tool within the Marketing world.

Here, at Local Pages we can offer iSmart Photo Augmented reality, technology which allows videos and slideshows to appear through your printed adverts. If this is something you would be interested in finding out more about, don’t hesitate click here to get in contact with us today.

 

 

Chatbots 

chatbots

Chatbots are providing customer interface which is instant and can be accessed 24/7, and they are quickly proving to be a successful marketing tool.

The instantaneity of the Chatbots has proven to be popular in a world where customers want issues solved quickly and all answers supplied immediately. These instant messengers save both time and money.

Chatbots also enable businesses the opportunity to customise their own ‘Brand Voice’ and send personalised messages directly to their users/clients, for a truly personable approach, rather than it feeling as though you are conversing with a robot.

In addition, business profitability can also be targeted, with Chatbots providing the opportunity for swift, easy transactions. 47% of consumers have already expressed they would buy directly from a Chatbot (HubSpot, 2017), with 26-36 year olds willing to spend up to £481.15 with a business via a Chatbot interaction (ubisend, 2017).

Between 2016 and 2021 Chatbot marketing is expected to grow at a compound rate of 35.2% (Marketsandmarkets, 2017), so expect to see a lot more Chatbots popping onto your screens!

If you are interested in finding out more about Chatbot Marketing for your Website click here to get in contact with us today.

 

 

Videos 

videos

The way in which we consume video is changing. Video is quickly becoming the number one fastest growing Ad format in the world and has been doubling Year on Year. By 2020 it has been estimated video will make up 80% of all online consumer internet traffic, becoming the closest medium you get to a face to face conversation with your target audience (smartinsights.com)

As with Augmented Reality, Video Ad platforms are helping Brands stand out from the crowd, and allowing for a longer and conceivably more emotionally driven connection with their audience.

If you are looking at creating a company Video we can help you design, plan and produce one here at Local Pages.

Social Media is also a great platform, allowing businesses a quick and easy way to upload videos and reach a wider audience. We offer social media management packages to support your social media needs, and ensure you are offering up to date and relevant content to get the most out of your social media advertising.

Click here to get in contact with us today about your Video and Social Media needs.

 

 

Geofencing 

geo-fencing

Marketers have already been seeing the benefits of Geofencing technology, which allows the collection of information from consumer mobile devices. The technology allows marketers to learn a lot about their audience and in turn allows for businesses and services to target customers in ‘real time’ i.e. sending a promotional message to the customer when they are within a 1 mile radius, or have been searching their website.

This form of targeted hyper-local marketing will increasingly grow more popular and influential, especially for smaller, local businesses who want to engage with only the most relevant local shoppers who are most likely to spend.

According to plotprojects.com, the click-through rate of Geofencing notifications on Androids is 13.6%, which by far exceeds that of generic push notifications, which are only 2%. This indicates sending relevant notifications at the most opportune time encourages increased interaction.

We truly believe in the power of local marketing and have seen this first hand. As experts in the local marketing business, we have proven that our specialised local marketing generates more leads creating higher conversion rates. Click here to find out more about all our products & services.

 

 

Personalised Content 

 

personalised-content2

 

 

 

 

We are expecting to see a growth in personalised content within digital Marketing in 2018. Businesses have already begun to see the benefits of personal call to action marketing. StubHub, an online ticket exchange owned by eBay, reported a 42% improvement when users were given a personalized call to action (accountexnetwork.com).

Personalised content is also best used when different content is targeted to different types or groups of visitors based on their behaviour or other factors. Consumers have different intentions when visiting brands online, and having the ability to appeal to a wider range of people by tailoring digital content to personally appeal strengthens engagement with customers and can have a direct impact on website traffic and ongoing engagement.

As it happens, using Personalised Content doesn’t just mean customers are more likely to engage and buy your products they are also willing to pay more for them too! Consumers truly value a great personalised experience. If that means paying a little more, so be it. A survey from the content marketing institute suggests that 77% of customers will recommend, or pay more for a brand that provides a personalised experience. The better and more personal the experience, the greater the customer’s willingness to spend money on it. If the experience feels exclusive enough, customer will be willing to pay exclusive prices (digitalmarketingmagazine.co.uk).

To find out how we can help you with Personalised content for your business website click here to talk to one of our team members today.

In summary, Marketing is becoming ever more complicated, strategic, personable, engaged, technologically advanced and altogether essential to businesses both large and small.

With over 200 years of industry experience we are experts in marketing, generating millions of new leads for our customers over the past 38 years. We can offer you advice on all your Marketing needs, so do not hesitate to contact us today for a friendly consultation with one of our team.

We recommend having a peek on https://www.hubspot.com/marketing-statistics . It makes for a really interesting read, highlighting how powerful & effective Marketing tools can be!

 

 

 

 

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