January is always going to be a month filled with promise and motivation. So many people feel the need to move forward, not only in their personal goals, but also with careers and business. A lot of people start businesses this month, or at least a draw a line in the sand in regards to previous growth and results and look at ways to expand and move a business forward. So what areas should you be looking at if you are serious about moving your business forward? I thought it was an ideal time to share with you four of them that could prove successful for business growth this year.
Image: Startupstock
Social media channels
Social media is always going to be a powerhouse of advertising for your business, but are you really making the most of the platforms available to you? Facebook by far is one of the best ways to market a business with over 1.3 billion people using it each day. A quick focus on your Facebook marketing strategies could highlight some of the areas you may not be focusing on enough, or even try and pinpoint the type of content shared on this social media platform that works for you. Instagram may mean that you want to improve photography. Even trying out new methods of sharing such as live video, edited videos on YouTube, or even other platforms like Snapchat, could help you reach a wider audience of potential customers.
Expanding locally
It is a trend that isn’t going away anytime soon. The need to shop small or stay local can really work in your favour, if your market it correctly. This could mean seeking out opportunities of advertising with local events. Joining forces in the way of sponsorship with local charities, and making your company known while helping out the local community or charity of your choice. It can be a great way to become the expert in your field locally, and could open up a whole new customer base.
Improving your ecommerce site
Shopping online is the way forward for some, and there isn’t any hiding from the fact that so much is done by a click and a swipe of the smartphone. So you may really need to consider focusing some time and energy into your ecommerce site. Is it easy to use? Does it have easy payment methods and the fintech needed to support it? Could you extend further from this and have your own app? These are all valid things to consider.
Working on repeat business or referrals
Finally, you may already have a great advertising opportunity sat in your current customer base. How often do you explore the opportunity for repeat business? Or if your product and service is a one time thing, then what about bonuses for referring new customers and clients? Exploring your current customer base could create new opportunities for your business.
I hope that these options give you something to consider to grow your business this year.