Although most people don’t realize it, small and medium-sized businesses are some of the most important components of your economy. In fact, some experts believe that they are the catalysts for economic development.
In countries like Jamaica, data shows that close to 300,000 small and medium businesses are operating in Jamaica. However, they aren’t faring so well because they continue to face obstacles that make it difficult for them to prosper.
One of the leading reasons why many small businesses fail is because they can’t target the right audience. As a result, they cannot sell the product, earn revenue or take care of their expenses. And considering the fact that some regions in the Caribbean such as Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago are boasting huge numbers of internet users—a study found that 77% of the people in Trinidad and Tobago used the internet, while 55.1% of the people in Jamaica used the internet. In other regions too, the usage of the internet is on the rise, thanks partly to COVID-19, which pushed more people to use the internet due to the lockdown.
In any case, it’s crucial to use digital marketing to get ahead and expand your business. Here are some techniques you should use:
USE SEO and GMBs
Traditional marketing is a thing of the past and something you probably shouldn’t dabble in. It’s not going to get you a new audience. Instead, using local SEO to target the right audience is one of the best ways to get more customers. Not only would it help you increase your customer base, but it would also increase your revenue.
You can also use Google my Business Posts as that’s an easier and user-friendly tool to navigate. It’s also popular among the residents of the Caribbean because it allows them to check out your business and read some of the reviews.
You can add your location, contact number, and store hours so people can have an idea of how to get to you.
Start a Blog
Blogs are one of the most powerful ways to attract customers. According to WordPress.com, more than 409 million people read close to 23.7 billion blog posts. However, since there is so much content on their website, you have to make your content unique.
Add a couple of pictures and use catchphrases. Moreover, be sure not to overstuff your keywords because that will just backfire. Not only would it compromise the quality of your blog, but it would also not make it visible to the readers.
It’s also a good idea to include your contact information at the end of your blog so people know where to contact you.
Make Your Online Presence Known
It’s crucial to make your online presence known. People need to know that the business they want to deal with has a strong online presence. In fact, if your consumers have heard about you or want to know you, one of the first things that they will do is to look you up online. And that’s no surprise. Think about how you track down potential buyers. Do you show up on their doorstep or do you take out the time to Google, them, take a look at their social media platforms, and check their reviews? It’s probably the latter.
So be sure to optimize your website and make it attractive. Moreover, be sure to update your contact information. Your consumers will want to know that you are online and will reply to them promptly if they have any questions.
Create or Join a Facebook Group
Again, it’s one of those ideas that won’t cost you a lot of money—or any at all. So many Facebook users exist in Jamaica. In fact, close to 54.3 percent of people use Facebook and the number is expected to grow exponentially.
It’s crucial to take advantage of this opportunity to create a Facebook group and allow like-minded people to discuss ideas. You can take inspiration from these ideas and market your product around them. On the other hand, you can also join groups where you can advertise your product. Some moderators allow it. However, be careful not to spam the groups because moderators could mute you, delete your post, or ban you from the group.
Hire an Influencer
Jamaica has a host of influencers that you can collaborate with and ensure that your product reaches the right audience. That’s because influencers typically have access to the audience of your liking and by working with them, you can ensure that a lot of people will view your product. If you don’t have too much money, consider hiring a nano-influencer.
Small and medium-sized businesses have the power to grow and take over the market if they have the relevant guidelines. So be sure to follow the guidelines and you’re there! Read my other article on influencer marketing and how brands are capitalizing.
