Digital marketing is a broad industry, with numerous tactics and platforms utilized to drive traffic to a particular website, sell products and raise awareness. Many businesses implement a strategy that combines web content, social media, SEO and Google Ads, but is it enough?
In this article, we will discuss another strategy being used by brands operating online to remain at the forefront of their industry. That strategy is being listed in locations online, whether that’s by search engines, industry experts or review websites.
Google My Business
It’s more important than ever to ensure your business details are added to Google’s business listings. Distinct from search results, Google’s business details appear in the right-hand column in desktop search results.
The information displayed typically includes your opening hours, contact details and a link to your website. There is also functionality to receive reviews from customers, with your average star rating displayed for all to see. If customers’ perceptions of you are positive, then this can be a great marketing tool.
Spending a little time optimizing your Google My Business details can deliver lasting benefits. If you’re unsure where to start, WordStream.com ran a guide on how to ensure you get the full benefits of the tool.
U.S. Retailers, now you can help customers quickly order from your store by adding a “Place an order” link to your Business Profile. Learn more here → https://t.co/m2gPNiQ77a pic.twitter.com/dc0zSIJBTU
— Google My Business (@GoogleMyBiz) October 15, 2020
Industry aggregation
Many industries feature websites that aggregate some of the leading platforms, often ordering the services available by ranking and providing short reviews of each one. Being on these lists can help ensure that your brand is showcased to the right audience at the right time.
These lists are generally updated regularly, with the websites included working hard to boost their rankings. Platforms like these are particularly important for new operators, as it provides a great opportunity to showcase your offering to a relevant audience.
This format of marketing is particularly common in the world of online gambling, with websites listing the leading platforms and their key features. ‘At a glance’ guides like CasinoWings.com provide players with a natural starting point when choosing where to open their account, with information on the bonuses offered and the deposit and withdrawal methods available.
Review websites
The power of the review seems to be increasing all the time, with the opinions of customers counting for more than ever before. Reviews are a feature in Google’s business listings, but specialized review websites place the power of opinion completely at the forefront. For operators in the hospitality and dining industries, websites like TripAdvisor.com can make or break your business.
If you are able to attract positive reviews, then you will likely reap the rewards, as a high percentage of people check reviews before making a booking. However, negative reviews could damage your business, so it’s a fairly cagey environment, with many business owners investing time in responding to comments that are less favorable.
“It’s a peach.” We couldn’t agree more. Luke R.’s peachy A-frame cabin rental is just a few miles from the entrance to Mount Rainier National Park, making it a perfect place to relax and disconnect as you listen to the Nisqually river running nearby. https://t.co/x87GcepIM6 pic.twitter.com/MTWnbZHyHe
— Tripadvisor (@TripAdvisor) November 7, 2020
As you can see, being listed as part of your digital marketing strategy can help create a new route for your customers to find you. And although finding the perfect formula may take some time, it’s certainly a worthwhile exercise.