5 Must Use Digital Marketing Channels

The term "digital marketing" spans across many different online channels. Most often we may think of digital marketing as just social media marketing. This is probably because according to a study reported by Intercom as of 2018, 81% of businesses were using social media as a part of their marketing plan. While social media is a great channel for digital marketing, it is also important to explore other options that your business may not be paying as much attention to. This article will explore social media marketing as well as four other important channels that can help improve your marketing strategy.

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1. Social Media

Most often when we all here "digital marketing" we think social media and this makes sense because social media marketing is the most popular platform marketers use. Social media is a great tool for companies to have a direct line of communication with their customers. Social media interactions tend to be more personal and allow for very quick response. Having this customer engagement allows marketers to determine what customers are enjoying and want more of or what is not working and needs to be improved.

2. Websites

Your business website is also a great marketing tool in itself. A website allows you to share background information about your company and what your goals are. It can also provide a platform for people to learn about your products and services and how they can purchase them. It can also be very useful to offer the option to purchase your company's products and services online. Online shopping and searching is very popular and will continue to grow so offering your consumers the option to purchase straight from your website is a great option.

3. Email

Another great option to market to your consumers is through email. I explained in a previous blog post "What's coming to digital marketing in 2019" that emails will become even more tailored and personalized to the specific consumer in the coming years. It is more effective for marketers to understand the specific wants and needs of their consumers and target market, then use this information to craft emails that are more personal and specific to what these consumers are looking for.

4. Banner Ads

Banner ads are another form of digital marketing that we are all exposed to on a daily basis as consumers. Whether you're visiting an online news source or browsing social media, banner ads are constantly popping up on the top and sides of your browser. You may also notice that these ads are usually tailored to brands you frequently visit or similar brands that fit your interest. Purchasing ad space in the form of these banner ads can be very useful for promoting your company. Based on algorithms your ads will be place on the browsers of consumers that likely fit your target market and allow them to easily click on the ad and be directed to your website. Here they can then learn more about what your company has to offer and hopefully make a purchase on the spot.

5. Mobile Apps

Mobile apps even further the ease of online shopping. Creating a mobile app simplifies the process of purchasing products and services from your company. It also allows users to browse and make purchases from anywhere, on-the-go. Having a website that allows for online purchasing is a great start but these aren't always designed the best for shopping from a mobile phone. Creating an adjoining app that offers the same products and services as your website can increase sales by offering consumers the ability to easily make purchases directly from their mobile phones.

What digital marketing tools are you already using and what benefits have you seen from using these channels? What tools are you not yet using and what are your plans to improve in the future? Let me know below!