Trends are continually evolving, and unless you continually have your finger on the pulse, it’s easy to fall behind the curve. And while we’re mixing metaphors, it’s probably time to point out that we should have used the term “woke” in that sentence to be truly with the times.
The same applies to your digital marketing strategy – you might think you’re on fleek, but what if you’re rolling basic?
Here’s how to tell if it’s time to reevaluate your digital marketing strategy:
1. Your Digital Marketing Strategy Hasn’t Changed Much in the Past 5 Years
Technological advancements have disrupted every – and I mean every – industry in the past few years. How many Netflix movies got Oscar nods in 2015? Among the biggest trends in marketing the past five years include personalization, automation, and augmented/virtual reality. If you’re marketing en masse, not leveraging tools like chatbots or digital assistants, and missing out on the opportunity to create digital experiences, your digital marketing strategy could use some readjusting.
2. You’re Using Social Media Like an Ad
You might be thinking, “Wait. Isn’t social media a great way to advertise?” Yes – and no. Social media is an effective way to connect to customers, but it’s also a good way to turn them off. Don’t use your social media channel as an online billboard for blasting your messaging. A recent survey found that almost half of followers said that they will unfollow your brand if it is too promotional.
Since social media is a place to connect with friends and family, use it to build meaningful connections. For example, ask customers their opinions, create polls and contests, or share other interesting stories about your brand or customers.
3. You’re Not Using an Omnichannel Approach
Do you have separate channels for leads, prospects, and customers? How about for digital and traditional marketing?
Omnichannel marketing is the watchword for 2020, and it is an approach that provides all members of the funnel with an integrated experience from start to finish. All channels are unified to create one message that aligns perfectly with your brand.
Omnichannel marketing works together with other digital trends like automation and personalization to keep your brand relevant and consistent. For example, you can create a seamless customer experience by sending a cart abandonment message through social or email, then following up with targeted sponsored advertisements.
4. You Aren’t Making Data-Driven Decisions
Your CRM systems and website generate lots of data, which translates to lots of insight about your customers and prospects. How are you using it?
If your answer is, “we don’t use it,” then you need a serious digital marketing overhaul. With the right tools, you can leverage your data to create personalized experiences and interactions with customers at every stage of your funnel. Machine learning algorithms can improve the customer experience and help you refine your marketing strategies.
Simple changes to your existing digital marketing strategy can help bring it into the new decade and poise your organization to take full advantage of the technology available in today’s market.
If you have committed any of these marketing faux pas, it may be time to reevaluate your priorities in 2020.
The original version of this article was first published on V3Broadsuite.