Meet Customers Where They Are (and They’re on TikTok): Marketing Experts Urge Startups to Invest in Brand Building
Introduction
In the ever-evolving realm of digital marketing, businesses must adapt to the ever-changing preferences and behaviors of their target audience. This is particularly true for startups, which often have limited resources and need to make strategic decisions about where and how to allocate their marketing efforts.
At a recent seminar hosted by Startland News, marketing experts Mikita Burton, Jack Jaskowitz, and Mark Josey emphasized the importance of understanding your target audience and tailoring your marketing strategies accordingly. They stressed the need for startups to invest in brand building and to be intentional and responsive in their marketing efforts.
Key Takeaways
1. Know Your Target Audience
The foundation of any successful marketing strategy is a deep understanding of your target audience. This entails understanding their demographics, psychographics, and online behaviors. Once you know who your target audience is, you can tailor your marketing messages and channels to reach them most effectively.
2. Be Intentional and Listen
When creating marketing content, it’s crucial to be intentional about your message and to heed your audience’s feedback. Avoid merely posting the same content across all channels; instead, adapt your message to suit the specific platform and audience. Be prepared to adjust your strategies based on what your audience tells you.
3. Use the Right Tools and Resources
There are a plethora of tools and resources available to help startups manage their social media marketing efforts. These tools can assist you in scheduling posts, tracking engagement, and analyzing your results. Additionally, consider partnering with agencies or hiring social media managers to aid you in creating and implementing your marketing strategies.
4. Experiment and Be Responsive
The digital marketing landscape is constantly evolving, so it’s essential to be willing to experiment and try new things. Be responsive to changes in your target audience’s behavior and be prepared to adjust your strategies accordingly.
Case Studies
1. Stanley Cup Incident
In 2021, a video went viral depicting a car engulfed in flames with a Stanley insulated cup inside. Remarkably, the cup survived the fire, and the video generated substantial buzz on social media. Stanley’s social media manager swiftly capitalized on the opportunity, utilizing the incident to promote the company’s products.
2. QR Code on Received Envelopes
Jack Jaskowitz shared an example of how a company effectively targeted customers by placing a QR code on received envelopes. By incorporating the QR code on the envelope, the company was able to reach customers who were already interested in their products or services.
Conclusion
By adhering to these expert tips, startups can develop effective marketing strategies that resonate with their target audience and contribute to achieving their business objectives. The key lies in being intentional, responsive, and open to experimentation.
Additional Resources
1. Startland News: Kansas City Startups to Watch in 2024 Seminar and Reception
2. Mikita Burton: Social Media Strategist
3. Jack Jaskowitz: Vice President of Revenue and Business Operations, PayIt
4. Mark Josey: Co-founder, Social Apex Media and Kansas City Pioneers
5. Sprout: Social Media Management Platform
6. Buffer: Social Media Management Platform