The COVID-19 pandemic has upended human society as we know it. Of course, it has also had a major impact on the business world. Both major and minor brands have had to quickly adapt their marketing strategy and messaging to successfully engage and convert customers in this time of unprecedented change.
How will all of this affect marketing post-quarantine? Here are some tips on how you can successfully market to your customers both now and in the (hopefully near) post-COVID future.
Adapt to changing customer behaviors.
It's no big secret that since March of this year, online content consumption has skyrocketed, as has social media usage. This trend is likely to stay for a while. Therefore, it's important to find ways that your brand can leverage these channels to reach and engage with your target consumers.
Give your marketing a human touch.
Now more than ever, people are looking for a sense of community. When you offer your consumers relatable messaging, and provide them with a sense of community and togetherness, you create an emotional connection. And emotional connections are far more tight-knit and longer lasting than a any discount or promotional offer.
Be transparent.
The crisis humbled businesses big and small, forcing them to show areas of uncertainly and offering a glimpse behind the curtain (or more accurately, a glimpse into thieir living rooms and home offices!).
This helped to humanize brands, creating empathy and building connections with consumers. A more transparent approach to operations and communications should be carried on into the post-COVID landscape.
Be innovative.
The fact is, there's no longer any such thing as "tried and true." COVID-19 knocked that concept out months ago. For that reason, don't be afraid to try new things. That could mean offering new products or services, or simply handling your operations in a different way. Even the most risk-averse business was forced to take some risks, and this shake-up could be just what your business needs to keep going and get ahead.
Seek out business partners.
Many struggling companies have found their salvation in mutually beneficial business partnerships. Look at your market to see where opportunities may exist for your brand to join forces with others to support the community, provide for customers, and, of course, sell some products and services along the way.
Be flexible.
No one knows what the future will hold. Because of that, don't get tied to one marketing method or strategy. Create a plan, but be willing to adjust it as needed.
We’ve been hearing the phrase “90 days is the new long-term” tossed around a lot in our marketing circles. For us and our clients, it’s been more like 9 days! We’re looking forward to the longer-term-yet-flexible planning as things begin to settle down into a “new normal.”
For more helpful advice and information on how to successfully market both now and post-quarantine, drop us a line or DM us on Instagram.