Meaningful interactions will always be more valuable than shallow surface-level marketing strategies. We know this. And yet I still see people blasting their online audience with the picture equivalent of someone shouting at you through a megaphone.
This is a sponsored post. I am sharing this information with you so you can set goals for the year to grow your audience.
I recently read an article focusing on Behrman Communications, a PR agency who is doing things differently.
Whether you write blog posts, create jewelry, offer consultations, sell essential oils, or anything in between, growing your audience is one of the
Here are 4 things to try this year to focus your efforts so that you connect with the right people for your product or service.
Focus on your Target Audience
This may sound counterintuitive, but sometimes, it’s better to focus your energies on delivering the most value you can to your target audience, rather than trying to appeal to everyone. I used to teach social media workshops to small business owners/solo-preneurs. When I talked about target audiences and niches, most of the women I spoke to gave me a broad range or said they targeted everyone.
Meet in Person
Traditionally, networking events involve listening to a short lecture and then handing out business cards to people who may or may not be interested in your specific product or service. Instead, try going to a Meetup group related to something you’re interested in. When you connect with others outside of a business environment, you can get to know and trust each other.
Learn more about your Niche
I’m going to a travel blogging conference this year. I’ll be able to connect with brands and PR representatives as well as fellow bloggers at the conference. But, I’ll also be able to learn more about the travel niche. Specific information will help me connect with my audience more than just offering them general ideas that they’ve heard before.
If you’re a food writer, try taking a cooking class or a nutrition course.
Make Videos
Does this one make you feel a bit scared? That’s how I feel when anyone mentions making videos. The fact is that people consume content on video so much more often these days. I’m going to create videos for my posts as often as possible.
This year, focus your efforts on the strategies that will work for you, instead of trying out every single idea you come across.
Looking for more ideas? Nancy Behrman shares her thoughts on branding and entrepreneurship on her site.
Sarah Mir says
Great tips Tazim – I agree that epecially now niche marketing is the way to go. Videos totally intimidate me but once I get my SEO stuff updated on posts that’s next on my list. any tips?
Tazim Damji says
Hi Sarah,
One thing you could try for easy videos is Lumen5. It’s a free service that lets you make videos out of your blog posts! Check it out. I want to make more use of the site and add the videos to my blog posts and Facebook.