These are unprecedented times. I do not know how to respond to the struggles we as business owners are facing or to the current changes in buying habits of consumers. I am no expert in dealing with crisis, much less in dealing with a crisis of this magnitude. Below I’ve attempted to give you some facts that you may want to be aware of and also included is a number of links that will provide you with additional insight and encouragement.
If you’ve been following me for any amount of time, you know I am incredibly passionate about small businesses and my heart is breaking at the number of businesses forced to close their doors unable to transition to meet new buying trends and drastic changes in the market.
First, here are some facts that validates why having a website and social media presence that allows you to convert is a NECESSITY during this time.
Online order are up 366% in the last ten days from the normal going rate
Chat is up over 80%
Daily time spent in apps on Android and iOS devices increased 20% year-over-year in Q1 2020
Consumer spending in both iOS and Android apps was also up 15% and 5% respectively, setting a new record for in-app spending for a single quarter at $23.4 billion worldwide
eMarketer predicts the pandemic is also likely to boost digital media consumption across the board
Pew Research Center found that over half (55 percent) of US adults got news from social media often or sometimes in 2019, up from 47 percent in 2018. As anxiety over the coronavirus pandemic grows, many will turn to social media not only to consume news updates, but also to connect with friends and family.
As we navigate the implications of this ongoing pandemic, here are some important digital marketing tips to keep in mind:
Maintain clear and confident communication. Assure your customers / clients that their safety and the safety of your employees is at the forefront of your decision making. Assure them that you are maintaining strict cleaning and disinfecting procedures.
Create an open space for feedback and conversation. Ask your customers / clients about what concerns them the most. Provide hope and honesty through this time of confusion and chaos.
Share your struggles honestly. Share how your customers and clients can help your small business. We have gotten countless responses on our IG stories from our followers asking how they can help.
I am praying for you and here for you. Please do not hesitate to reach out with concerns or way I might could help.
If you’re looking to maintain relevancy online during this crisis, or to create/develop an online brand, reach out to us for a custom digital marketing strategy!
