There are many types of digital marketing that you can use to reach your audience. Using multiple digital marketing channels can help you develop a comprehensive strategy that will yield the best results.
To help you decide which digital marketing strategies work best for your business, here are the five most effective types of digital marketing:
Search Engine Optimization
Search engine optimization (SEO) is a strategy for creating content so that search engines, such as Google, rank your web pages highly on search engine results pages (SERPs).
Google uses algorithms to determine how relevant your pages are to the keywords people are searching for. These algorithms are updated frequently, and SEO strategies must be adjusted regularly to remain effective.
If done correctly, SEO efforts will put your page at the top of search results and attract more organic traffic.
Advantage
It increases brand awareness.
It is cost effective compared to PPC.
Disadvantage
SEO depends on content and technology.
Google’s ever-changing algorithm can hinder your efforts.
SEO takes time to work.
Marketing in search engines / pay per click
Search engine marketing or SEM refers to paid ads that appear at the top of search results. The cost of these ads is usually based on the number of clicks on the link, hence the “pay per click.
When you pay for these top SERP slots, an “Ads” tab will appear next to your URL. Although consumers know these are ads, many still click on these links, which can be a very effective digital marketing tactic.
Advantage
It helps you get to the top of the rankings quickly.
It’s a time efficiency.
Disadvantage
Targeting popular keywords is often expensive.
Most people are skeptical of advertising in search results, preferring to trust organic search results.
SMM
Social media marketing uses social media platforms as digital marketing channels. Advertising can be purchased to reach new audiences, or you can create a profile for your business on any social media platform and publish posts to promote new products, sales or new releases.
Which social media platform you use depends on the type of audience you want to reach. For example, according to the Pew Research Center, Instagram is best for reaching audiences between the ages of 25 and 29, and Facebook is best for users over 65.
Advantage
Has a high conversion rate.
Workload can increase quickly as people like, comment and share your content.
Facebook/Instagram ads allow you to target specific customer segments and get your message out to the right people.
Disadvantage
Social media is challenging. The algorithm changes from time to time. At the same time, new content formats are frequently introduced. You’ll have to keep updating.
Although posting on social media sounds simple, it takes strategic planning and plenty of time to do it consistently and effectively.
Email Marketing
When someone visits your website or business, invite them to join your email subscriber list. With their permission, you can send emails about sales, special events or product launches. Email marketing is often underestimated, and according to Lyfe Marketing, every dollar spent on email marketing generates about $40 in revenue.
The most important part of this digital marketing funnel is that it should benefit your audience. Offer them exclusive offers they can’t get anywhere else, and you can create a mutually beneficial relationship that builds brand loyalty.
Now that we understand the types of digital marketing, let’s take a closer look at when and how to use different types of digital marketing.
Advantage
Of the several types of digital marketing, this one doesn’t depend on ever-changing algorithms.
Regular contact with your email list can strengthen relationships, and they can remember you when planning purchases.
Disadvantage
Customers usually don’t open emails.
It’s hard to find ways to add value so customers don’t unsubscribe.
Choosing the best digital marketing strategy for your business can be difficult and can involve trial and error. One of the most important things to consider is your audience. Who do you want to reach and where are they looking for information?
If you’re trying to reach a niche audience that knows a lot about the industry, detailed, informative content will create value and attract them.
If you’re trying to reach a younger audience, social media is one of the most useful tools at your disposal. Find out what types of digital marketing platforms are most popular with your target audience and start selling on them.
