6/20/2014
Technology and the Internet are constantly changing how we communicate and conduct business. For better or worse, it seems like we are always surrounded by technology. By the time you snap your fingers, you can probably find a desktop, laptop or smart phone to surf the web.
Our cultural dependency on technology is also rapidly changing how companies market their products. Our target customers have the ability to block our sales calls or skip over our advertisements. Think about it – when’s the last time you took a cold call? Our target audience can research solutions, products and parts…not to mention our competitors… all on the Internet.
Michigan manufacturers – it’s time to increase your online presence. When your prospective customers go on the Internet, you’re the one they should find.
Social media is a great way for businesses to build their online brand. If you’re envisioning high school students who are using their personal blog to complain about their problems or college kids posting their party pictures on Facebook, that’s NOT what we’re talking about when we say social media. Social media for business is an entirely different animal. With the right social media strategy and implementation, it can help you:
- Increase website traffic
- Enhance brand awareness
- Connect with new prospects
- Nurture leads
- Drive sales
According to SocialMedia Examiner’s 2014 Social Media Marketing Industry Report, 92% of marketers indicate that “social media is important for their business,” up 86% from 2013. The State of Inbound Marketing from Hubspot reports that social media has a 100% higher lead-to-close rate than outbound marketing (techniques such as cold calling and telemarketing).
There are various ways manufacturers can use social media platforms to their benefit, but here are just some examples:
- Facebook – manufacturers can showcase their products and parts. Companies can also provide industry news and updates to provide engaging content for followers.
- Blogging – businesses can provide “how-to” tips and information to their target audience and present themselves as credible subject matter experts.
- Twitter – organizations can tweet news to reporters for possible media placements or connect with local, state and federal legislators to tour their facilities.
- LinkedIn – manufacturers can use LinkedIn’s group function to connect with new contacts online and start discussions.
If you haven’t joined social media yet, now is a good time to explore the possibility. It’s a powerful business development tool in your arsenal to grow sales!
MMTC provides business development services to all Michigan businesses. For more information, clickhere or contact us at inquiry@mmtc.org.
Since 1991, MMTC has assisted Michigan’s small and medium-sized businesses compete and grow. Through personalized services fitted to meet the needs of clients, we develop more effective business leaders, drive product and process innovation, promote company-wide operational excellence and foster creative strategies for business growth and greater profitability. Find us at www.mmtc.org.
Categories: Sales & Marketing