#Marketing in 2015 is not the same as marketing today. The role of marketing has and will always be a pivotal part of a company’s success. So, why aren’t businesses treating marketing strategy as the big deal it is?
There isn’t a perfect answer to this question. Most small businesses think marketing is just a waste of money, time and resources. Some think marketing is posting ads on social media, hoping to gain some clicks. While posting ads on social media is a function of marketing, it shouldn’t be the only marketing channel. And with marketing automation making things so much easier, small businesses are completely ignoring the strategies behind it.
A lot of these marketing automation software have helped businesses of all sizes grow exponentially. However, what they are not doing is providing the strategies needed to gain maximum Return on Investment (ROI). A handful of these software inform businesses of their benefits and where they fit in the overall marketing plan. Others simply share the functionality and its easy to use features. These software are created to execute the marketing plan, not be the marketing strategy.
Despite having great product and service, customers expect great experience. A strong marketing strategy is needed to provide that differentiating experience. In today's competitive market, experience is often times the deciding factor when choosing a product or service. This is where your marketing strategy provides when, where and how to engage your clients. Your marketing strategy should highlight where the customer experience is at its peak and allows the business to stay relevant.
It is without doubt that digital media is not going anywhere. It is driving and derailing business growth, while helping businesses maintain relevance. Due to this fact, most businesses are allocating a significant amount of marketing dollars into their digital and social media strategy. This is good, if your marketing strategy is the right one. Proper marketing dollars allocation, ensure that you are wasting your marketing dollars.
Lastly, technology changes, so does human interaction and habits. A strong marketing strategy helps identify where these changes are happening and how you can stay engaged and relevant with your customers.