In a world where so many brands and businesses are crowding the marketplace with their message, it can leave a business owner wondering how to stand out from the crowd. Thankfully, there is a way around that. The best way to remain competitive and stand out of the crowd is to remain innovative and creative with your marketing techniques.
Although you can use the knowledge that you were able to get through your MBA program, you still have to rely very much on creativity—which is not something that can always be taught. Creativity is a muscle that has to be strengthened. The more strategic you are with creative strategies, the more you'll eliminate the competition. Here are a few creative ways to get your company's name in the marketplace.
1. Influencer Marketing
There are lots of brand influencers in social media. Find an influencer that aligns with your product well. If you're selling a curling iron, find a beauty influencer with a lot of followers. Create a discount code for those who use the product. This will help you to also build your own following and increase sales.
2. Engaging Social Media Campaigns
Strategic social media campaigns are very important for longevity because all companies are online. Not only that, it's important to make sure the content is relevant, engaging and high-quality. Hire a graphic designer that can create consistent graphics and alter your message based on the platform. When it's time to post on the company's Instagram page, make sure pictures and videos fill up the bulk of the feed. When it's time to work with Twitter, remember that those 140 characters mean a lot, so make sure the words are necessary and deliver the point efficiently. If your company is a non-profit that focuses on helping those in indigenous populations, use Pinterest and Facebook to share engaging infographics to attract donors.
3. Speaking Engagements & Seminars
Many business owners would much rather put their head down and work on their own projects. However, part of promotion involves getting your face out there and meeting the people. Consider doing seminars and speaking engagements to help those outside of your sphere of influence. If you're not confident with the idea of public speaking yet, consider taking classes to strengthen that skill.
4. Viral Challenges
There are so many silly challenges on social media. Knowing this, there are so many positive ways to make a difference and encourage others to do the same. Many people knew nothing about ALS until the ice bucket challenge happened a few years ago. It garnered millions of dollars to help people in need. Put your creative thinking cap on and find ways to connect with major influencers in the world. It only takes a spark and things can really go viral from there.
When it comes to creative marketing and branding, companies can easily get overwhelmed with the lack of understanding on how to stand out. But, with these four tips, the sky is truly the limit.