So What Really Is Digital Marketing?

Maximize your digital marketing

To get the most out of digital marketing, focus on channels your customers use frequently. By combining different strategies like SEO, content marketing, and social media, you can effectively attract and convert more visitors into customers.

Inbound marketing versus digital marketing

Digital marketing refers broadly to any online promotional effort, while inbound marketing specifically means creating valuable content that naturally attracts people to your business. Digital marketing tools like social media or email can be used individually, but inbound marketing combines these tools strategically to guide customers smoothly through their buying journey.

Think of inbound marketing as your game plan, and digital marketing channels as your playbook.

Why is online marketing important?

Online marketing lets your business reach people wherever they are, whenever they're online. This makes your brand more accessible to potential customers all over the world. Plus, it’s affordable and measurable, allowing you to make smarter decisions about where to invest your time and money.

Types of digital marketing

Search engine optimization

SEO helps your website show up in Google and other search engines. Good SEO means customers can find you when they're looking for products or services like yours.

Content marketing

Content marketing means sharing useful blogs, videos, or guides that attract and help your customers. It builds trust and relationships, encouraging customers to choose you when they're ready to buy.

Social media marketing

Social media marketing involves engaging with customers on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter). It’s great for creating conversations and building brand awareness.

Pay-per-click marketing

With PPC, you pay for ads that appear online and only pay when someone clicks your ad. Google Ads is a popular example. PPC is great for quick results and attracting immediate traffic.

Affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing is when someone promotes your products in exchange for a commission on sales. This tactic can expand your reach through trusted voices and networks.

Native advertising

Native ads blend seamlessly into regular content. They’re designed to provide useful information or entertainment before making a sales pitch, avoiding the usual customer skepticism about ads.

Influencer marketing

Influencer marketing involves partnering with individuals who have large followings online. Influencers help build trust and introduce your products to their dedicated audience.

Marketing automation

Marketing automation uses software to automatically deliver targeted messages to your customers. This saves you time and ensures customers receive relevant content exactly when they need it.

Email marketing

Email marketing is about sending targeted emails to nurture leads or re-engage customers. Personalizing emails based on customer preferences can significantly boost conversions.

Mobile marketing

Mobile marketing reaches customers directly on their smartphones or tablets, using text messages, mobile apps, and mobile-optimized content. With most people using mobile devices daily, this strategy helps you stay connected with your customers wherever they are.

A broad geographic reach

Digital marketing lets your business easily reach a global audience. You aren’t limited by geography, allowing you to grow your customer base faster.

Cost efficiency

Compared to traditional methods like TV ads or billboards, digital marketing often costs less while reaching a larger, more targeted audience.

Quantifiable results

One major advantage of digital marketing is being able to track results in real-time. This means you always know exactly what's working and what's not, helping you optimize your efforts.

Easier personalization

Digital marketing allows for detailed personalization, giving customers tailored experiences based on their interests and online behavior.

More connection with customers

With online marketing, customers can easily engage with your business. This interaction strengthens relationships and fosters brand loyalty.

Easy and convenient conversions

Digital marketing makes it simple for customers to take immediate action. With just one click, they can buy your product, sign up for your newsletter, or learn more about your offerings.

How to create a digital marketing strategy

Set SMART goals

Define clear, achievable goals. SMART means Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely. For example, 'increase website traffic by 20% in 3 months.'

Identify your audience

Know who you're marketing to. Understand their needs, preferences, and online habits so you can reach them effectively.

Create a budget

Decide how much you're willing to spend. Budgeting helps ensure your marketing dollars are wisely spent and keeps your efforts focused.

Select your digital marketing channels

Choose the platforms your audience uses the most. Whether it's social media, email, or search engines, go where your customers are already active.

Refine your marketing efforts

Regularly review your results and make adjustments. Keep improving your strategy based on what works best for reaching your goals.

Digital marketing creates growth

Embracing digital marketing allows your business to grow faster and more efficiently. It provides powerful tools to reach customers, engage them meaningfully, and drive more sales. Start putting digital marketing to work, and watch your business thrive.