It's 2023 which means everyone has a phone or tablet or at least a computer of some sort, right?

Maybe. We do know more people in America have internet access than do not.

That means potential customers will be searching for you online. In fact, 97% of people search for a business online prior to going into that business!

So why do you need a website in 2023? There are a couple reasons...

1. Visibility and credibility: A website is the foundation of an online presence and it gives your business visibility and credibility. It provides potential customers with a way to find out more about your business, products and services, and it establishes your business as a legitimate and professional entity. If you are relying on a social media page as your website, that gives the appearance of a 'fly by night' business that doesn't invest in itself, so why would they be the best place for them to shop!?

2. Reach: A website allows you to reach a global audience, regardless of geographic location. It can be accessed by anyone with an internet connection, giving your business the potential to reach more customers than traditional forms of advertising. Your sign out front is a vitally important part of basic marketing for your business. But a website doesn't require someone to drive by. If your location is off the beaten path, a website (plus SEM to drive traffic) allows customers to find you easily, on the go, and on demand.

3. E-commerce: A website can allow for e-commerce, which is the buying and selling of goods and services through the internet. Having an e-commerce platform can help businesses sell their products and services online, which can be especially valuable in a time of pandemics or other situations that make it difficult to operate a physical storefront. More small business retailers report that customers spend more online than they do in store.

4. Cost-effective: A website can be a cost-effective way to reach a large audience. It can be less expensive than traditional forms of advertising such as television, radio, or print ads, and it allows businesses to target specific audiences based on geographic location, interests, and behaviors via programmatic advertising, social media advertising, and Search Engine Marketing.

5. Accessibility: A website can be accessed by anyone, at any time, from anywhere, making it a great option for businesses that operate outside of traditional business hours.

6. Analytical data: A website can provide valuable data and analytics that can help businesses understand their audience and improve their online presence. This data can be used to improve website design, content, and marketing efforts.

Overall, having a website in 2023 is essential for any business looking to establish an online presence, reach an audience on both a local and global scale, and gain visibility and credibility in an increasingly digital world. It's the foundation of a digital strategy that allows businesses to connect with customers, generate leads and sales, and build a brand.

For more on website design and how to promote, contact JT Scarpelli at scarp@bigrapidsmedia.com or visit Big Rapids Digital | Digital Marketing Solutions

It's a new year, so maybe it's a new you? Or at least your business?

Here are 10 ways to refresh your marketing strategies and reach new customers with the new year:

1. Set clear marketing goals: Before you can effectively market your business, you need to know what you want to achieve. Take some time to set clear, measurable goals for your marketing efforts. This will help you stay focused and track your progress. For more on setting goals: Setting Marketing Goals for your Business (bigrapidsdailynews.com)

2. Identify your target audience: Knowing who you want to reach is essential for creating targeted marketing campaigns. Take some time to research your ideal customer and understand their needs, pain points, and interests. For more on fidning your target audience: Your Target Audience (bigrapidsdailynews.com)

3. Create a content marketing strategy: Content marketing is a powerful way to attract and engage customers. Develop a plan for creating and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent content that speaks to your target audience. For example, florists make arrangements every day. Take pictures of finished products and time lapse video of the process. It's engaging content for your target audience!

4. Get a website/Optimize your website for SEO: Your website is your true store front and signage! More people will visit your website than walk/drive past your store. Make sure your website exists and is easy for search engines to find and understand is crucial for attracting organic traffic. Take some time to optimize your site for SEO, including by doing keyword research and creating high-quality content. For more, contact JT: scarp@bigrapidsmedia.com

5. Review your advertising strategy: are you on the right radio station? Is broadcast TV really reaching your target audience? Are your newspaper ads? Billboards? Make sure you are tracking the results from any and all advertising by comparing your traffic and sales to when your commercials aired, when the paper is printed, etc.

6. Utilize social media: Social media is a powerful tool for reaching and engaging with customers. Choose the platforms that make the most sense for your business and create a plan for posting regular updates and interacting with your followers.

7. Build email lists and send newsletters: Email marketing can be a highly effective way to reach and engage with customers. Build your email list by offering valuable content in exchange for subscribers, and use newsletters to keep your audience up-to-date on your products and services.

8. Advertise online: Online advertising can be a cost-effective way to reach a large audience. Consider using platforms like Google AdWords or Facebook Ads to target specific groups of people with your ads. Geo-target competitors, retarget web traffic, pre-roll Youtube videos, etc. Check BR Digital for more: Big Rapids Digital | Digital Marketing Solutions

9. Host events: Hosting events is a great way to connect with your customers and build your brand. Consider hosting webinars, workshops, or in-person events to showcase your products and services.

10. Partner with other businesses: Partnering with complementary businesses can be a great way to reach new audiences and build relationships. Look for opportunities to collaborate on promotions, events, or content.

11. Invest in video marketing: Video is a highly effective way to engage with customers and showcase your products or services. Consider creating video content for your website, social media, or online ads to reach a wider audience. Again, BR Digital can execute video ad campaigns. They can also plan and create video commercials and content.

Some of these take a lot of thought and even more time. But they're worth it!

Big Rapids Media can always help plan and execute any of these strategies.

If you don;t think you have the time for all of these, contact JT Scarpelli at Big Rapids Media: scarp@bigrapidsmedia.com