“Advertising brings in customers, but word-of-mouth brings in the best customers.” Jonah Berger
Be honest: how well did you handle Monday’s shortage of social media? Did you freak out because your entire marketing strategy relied on social media? Or were you ok because you have been building your email list already?
No matter what your reaction was, Monday was a bit of a wake-up call for everyone. With just one decision, mistake, or hack, we could easily lose the platforms most of us hold near and dear to our daily activities.
So who would you be if there wasn’t Instagram?
What would you do if there wasn’t Facebook?
Could your business still be a business without those platforms?
If you have read my prior blogs or attended my lectures, you know I am a firm believer that your social media strategy should lead people to your website. You should be capturing their information from your website (or messages) so you can connect with your audience off of a social media platform. If all of your marketing is tied into social media, you are missing a large piece of the puzzle.
So what do you need to be connected to your audience outside of a Zuckerberg platform? Here are 5 connection points to consider.
1. Email Marketing
As mentioned above, you should have a way to capture your client’s information when they visit your website. Remember, currency is not just money; currency is time & a valid email address. Provide a piece of valuable information to your audience in exchange for a valid email address. Then, connect with your audience by sending nurturing information that surprises and delights them. How? Address their pain points and offer the answers they are searching for at 2am.
2. Direct Connections
How often do you personally reach out to leads or clients who have disappeared? Perhaps it’s time to start reaching out to establish a connection with these people. Pick up the phone to call or text someone. Send a personal email to check in on a client. Reach out.
3. Partnerships
You are not Super Target and you do not offer all the things to your audience. They need to go to other businesses to have all of their needs met. Partner with those other businesses to create partnerships that work in tandem for you and for them. Build relationships with local business owners and leaders so they are willing to help promote you in an organic way and include your business in their future events.
4. Word of Mouth
Did you know that people are 84% more likely to purchase when referred by a friend? Use that to your advantage. Encourage clients to invite their friends, family, and neighbors into your business.
This goes beyond just commenting, liking, and sharing your social media content. Allow them to bring people to your classes, events, and more.
5. Media
I am sure you have a favorite podcast, blog, or video series, right? Reach out and ask to be a contributor. Don’t forget about your local TV and radio stations too. Spread your content to other publications, experts, and media sources to help further establish you as an expert in your field.
Ready to learn more about upgrading your business? Join me for my free “The Fitness of Your Business” webinar on October 14th at 11:30am ET.
Let me help you take your next step forward and upgrade your side hustle to your sustainable career.
If you are searching for more content to help make your life easier as a fitness entrepreneur, check out these additional resources:
