Four Steps to Writing Your Marketing Plan - Part 3
Welcome to Part Three!
As there are so many details that can be included in a well thought out marketing plan, I thought it was best to break this up into multiple posts. And this week’s blog focuses on just ONE action of the marketing plan because it is the most detailed of any of the sections and can be much longer than the other ones. Take your time and think through the different questions or items below. And I think it helps to know that you don’t have to write it all at once. Instead give yourself smaller chunks to do at a time in order to keep the task at hand from feeling daunting. So happy writing!How will You Promote Your Business - Print, Digital, & More!
This may be the longest section of your marketing plan because it details what your plans are. Ask yourself these questions and detail out how you will use the ones you choose to market your business to potential clients:
Where do I want to advertise
TV
Radio
Online
Social Media
Website
Will I use Email
How often
What will the content be
How will you gain subscribers
Do I want to use paid ads?
Social Media
Do I want to use boosted posts on social media?
Do I want to use Influencers to help promote my products/services?
Do I want to use printed materials
Newspapers
Magazines
Blogs
Are flyers needed?
Can I post them in other businesses
Are there business card boards you can use?
Events
Do you have marketing fairs/craft fairs/ other events you can purchase a spot in?
Partnerships
Are there other businesses in your niche that can cross promote you? For example, will a wedding cake vendor promote your photography business? You don’t want the same type of business, but one that makes sense for what you are doing. These partnerships can make or break a company, so do your homework when choosing a partnership and make sure it is beneficial for all involved.
SEO
Yes, Search Engine Optimization always SOUNDS expensive, but there are many things that, if you feel comfortable doing yourself, are free. But there are many companies out there that can help you with this process if you think that is better for you.
Includes a Keyword strategy
Social Proof/Reviews/Word of Mouth
How will you ask for reviews of purchases/experiences from your converted clients? How will you use these in your marketing to show other people what they can expect from you? Will you gather photos?
Referrals
Do you have a method for thanking referrals? Special promotions? And not just what will you give, how will you ask for referrals. You always want to be direct, and make sure you are telling your clients/friends/family who your ideal client is that you are looking for. Also, how will you track who refers you?
Conclusion
Stay tuned for next week when we continue on with the marketing plan project. Don’t stress yourself in writing this out. Instead, take small chunks, work on it multiple stages if need be. This is YOUR business for YOU. Happy writing!
