Targeted Traffic
Building traffic is one of the most talked about subjects for online marketing. There’s a science to it, but because online marketing is such a new realm for many businesses, it’s difficult to know what that formula is. That formula can vary depending on your industry, but there are a few golden rules to building traffic and monitoring the success of your marketing efforts. It’s important to monitor your traffic in all aspects – from how many people are visiting your site to how many people are responding to click-throughs via tweets. This gives you a feel for what’s working for your consumer and what isn’t. You want to practice traffic strategies that are going to work for your company for the long haul.
Monitoring traffic can be done through a variety of online sites. Some of these include HootSuite and Google Analytics. Depending on how much you want from the service will dictate the cost. Some services are free and provide the standard amount of information such as your numbers and what geographical areas those numbers are coming from. You’ll be surprised at who is clicking through, as the Internet gives your brand instant marketing across the globe. Other more advanced traffic monitoring services can get very specific about who is coming through your virtual doors, including a person’s gender, specific city and other interests they have. For most small to mid-size businesses, a free traffic monitoring service will work. It will give you groundwork on who your target consumer is, especially if you do not have the funds to do a focus group for your brand or product.
Traffic strategies vary depending on the industry. If you’re selling something, contests are always good. Who doesn’t love free stuff? You can also reach out to bloggers in your industry. If you’re selling a kitchen contraption, you may try sending it to a few well-known kitchen or cooking bloggers. Often bloggers will receive an item for free and if they enjoy the product, they will do a vlog or blog post explaining the item and where it came from. Bloggers are required by the FTC to disclose the fact that the item was free, but do not feel shy about this marketing strategy. It is common practice for brands who are releasing new products to gift bloggers. A handwritten note will help create a personal touch along with the product. While you cannot force a blogger to review an item and link to your site, this gifting strategy can potentially introduce your brand to new consumers and increase traffic.
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