5 digital marketing mistakes and how to fix them

5 digital marketing mistakes and how to fix them

With a significant percentage of consumers being online, digital marketing is the way to go for your business to be successful. If you want your brand to stay relevant while building a stable reputation, a holistic digital marketing campaign is what you need. This will help you not only reach out to potential target consumers but also stay connected with your pre-existing consumer base. However, for successful campaigns, steer clear of these digital marketing mistakes.

  • Your brand doesn’t have a blog
    You probably already have a website for your business. While it’s a good way to market your brand online, you are not utilizing its full potential without a blog section. Having blog content that provides consumers with valuable information will help establish your brand as a trusted industry leader and communicate your brand’s personality and voice to existing and potential consumers. What you can do : If you already have a website, expand it to include a blog section, or create a microsite that has all your blog content. Make sure that blogs are related to your industry and add guest posts and interviews from experts in your domain. Moreover, optimize the blog content for search engines to ensure your blogs show up more on search results, helping you to grab more attention from prospects.
  • You have not set any goals for digital marketing initiatives
    You have set aside a budget for your digital marketing campaign and all the deliverables are ready; however, if you have not set any targets, your campaign may fail to get you any substantial results. Creating a marketing campaign with no focus is one of the most common digital marketing mistakes to avoid. When you don’t set any goals, you will not know if your campaign is driving any success. Thus, you may not be able to determine if you need to work harder in certain areas of marketing. What you can do : Before you begin your campaign, set goals that are relevant to what you want to achieve. Your goals can include any or all of these – Do you want to achieve a certain number of leads or clicks on your campaign? What numbers are you looking to track? Have you set a limit on the budget and resources for the campaign from the profitability perspective? Have you decided a timeline that will help you understand the viability of your campaign? Finally, set up key performance indicators (KPIs) to meet these goals.
  • You have not set up your business for local search
    Local search is a handy tool used by consumers to find addresses, reviews, and ratings of a business. A majority of the consumers these days use local search to discover new businesses. So, if your business or brand is not showing up on their search results page, you are missing out on potential consumers to competitors in your area. Not showing up where your consumers are located is a major digital marketing mistake to avoid. What you can do : Leverage local search by optimizing your website with local search phrases and keywords and incorporate location-based keywords into your website copies. Furthermore, if your business is located in different regions or cities, make sure you have location-specific landing pages. You can also use a free listing tool to communicate important information such as your location, contact details, and working hours.
  • You have not optimized your online content and channels for mobile users
    Globally, mobile browsing comprises more than half of web traffic. This means, more than half of your target consumer base uses mobile devices to access online content and channels. So, if you have not optimized these for mobile screens, the load times for your websites, online ads, and videos will be too long. As a result, your consumers will quit, leading to higher bounce rate for your campaign deliverables. This will set back your marketing campaign. What can you do : Optimize your website for mobile users. The design of all your channels, online ads, landing pages, and other deliverables should be adjusted to be easily viewed on mobile screens without any glitches.
  • You don’t have any remarketing strategy
    Remarketing means marketing your business again to the leads who showed interest in your business in your initial marketing campaigns. You may just want to focus on acquiring new customers and remarketing can help you to achieve this goal by giving a gentle nudge to the leads towards conversion. What you can do : Devise an email marketing campaign to remind your leads about the products of your business that they had viewed earlier. You can send them promos and discounts to encourage a purchase. You can also re-engage them with ads through cookies and tracking pixels.
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Business phone systems – Types and top features

Communication is a crucial aspect of running a successful business. Even though emails and instant messaging applications have taken over, telephone communication remains prominent. That is why, when picking a new phone system for your enterprise, it is imperative to create a list of features that are important to you and could help your endeavor reach new heights. Some common features available in phone systems that may help you grow your business are listed below. Top features to watch out for in phone systems for businesses Multiple phone lines- Having multiple phone lines lets your employees switch between calls and better manage high call volume. The number of lines your business requires depends on the size of your enterprise. Auto-attendant- Companies will benefit from automated greeting systems that route the caller to the required department, depending on their query. Visual voicemail- Voicemail systems for businesses are more advanced than just recording messages. They can be used to transcribe the message and send it to the concerned employee via text or mail. Conference calls- This allows multiple employees to tune into one call and is necessary for companies operating a hybrid workforce. Call forwarding- This feature allows a user to forward a call to another phone number or email address. On-hold messages- This lets businesses record a waiting message or play background music while a caller is on hold. Handset support-  Modern-day business phone systems should be compatible with wired and wireless headsets for easy access. Types of business phone systems When considering business phone systems, there are three major types to choose from. Key system units Key System Units (KSUs) are the most basic phone system. For companies with a workforce of up to 40 people, these systems are adept at handling all essential functions of a small business. Still, they do not offer the flexibility and portability that others may require. This system uses a central switching device to determine the phone connection manually. For those looking for a more portable and flexible version of this in a smaller setting, the KSU-less may be interesting. It offers the same functionality as a KSU system without using the central switching unit, making it completely wireless. However, this system may be severely limited to small businesses looking to grow, as it cannot handle more than ten operators. Private Branch Exchange A Private Branch Exchange (PBX) phone system is a more advanced option for businesses with over 40 employees. It uses programmable switching devices, making it possible to automate the routing of incoming calls. It also features an uninterruptible power supply, meaning businesses can continue operating as usual, even without electricity, for a short time. Businesses can also opt for the hosted PBX, where the programmable switching device is hosted by a telephone provider and not installed on the premises. It helps bring down installation and maintenance costs. Voice over Internet Protocol Businesses looking for the most advanced systems must check out the Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), which utilizes Cloud technology to allow users to communicate even in different countries. Perhaps the most expensive system to set up, VoIP requires internet and a computer. The functions of this system are accessible via the company’s internet network to all the employees, and the final cost depends on the number of employees in the company. For businesses looking to save installation and maintenance costs, it is also possible to have a hosted VoIP setup similar to hosted PBX. Cost of business phone systems A business phone system costs around $15 to $50 monthly per user. These prices may vary depending on the service opted for, available bundles, and any additional features that businesses like automated answering machines or support services may choose. Currently, 8x8 offers some of the best deals in business phone systems. Using PBX technology, they offer award-winning voice quality for in-office and remote calls, along with seamless integration into business applications such as Microsoft Teams and other CRM systems. In addition, 8x8 offers an all-inclusive voice, video, and chat plan for larger teams at just $24 per user. This plan can accommodate unlimited users and unlimited voice calling to 14 countries and comes with features such as a multi-level auto-attendant, call handling, call queues, voicemail transcription, presence detection, team messaging, document sharing, video conferencing with screen sharing, integrations with CRM and other business apps, and more.

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6 mistakes small business startups must avoid

Starting a business of any size requires a whole lot of patience, effort, skill, and, of course, resources. Further, to make the investment of human and physical resources pay off, it is important to adopt the right practices and tread carefully in the initial stages of a startup. The process can involve a lot of trial and error, but here are a few major mistakes one can avoid while setting up a small business: 1. Skipping market research A clear understanding of the market and the target audience is a crucial aspect of starting and running a successful business. Before setting up a startup, one must have a proper knowledge of the segment that they are entering. They must know their target audience as well as competitors. One must also study their target audience in detail to understand their preferences and complaints regarding available products. Following thorough market research, they can develop new products or services and improve upon existing ideas to stand out. Further, entrepreneurs must understand their competitors’ approach to learn more about the market. Without such research, a startup may find it difficult to grow.  2. Not making a clear plan A clear plan for a startup is like laying a foundation for a building. To allow the structure to grow and become indestructible, the foundation has to be strong. So, when starting a business from scratch, one must begin by drafting a basic plan. This outline does not have to be complicated and extremely rigid. It only needs to be clear so that everyone involved knows the business objectives and strategy to meet these goals. The plan must make the following elements very clear: - The short-term and long-term goals of the business - The desired impact of products or services being offered - Growth and expansion strategy for the future Over time, as the startup grows, the plan can grow, too, gradually incorporating elements like cash flow planning, strategy for hiring and managing employees, inventory management plans, strategy for acquiring and retaining clients/customers, and so on. 3. Misallocation of funds For small startups and businesses, it is extremely important to spend money carefully. Entrepreneurs must identify the key aspects of their business that need more investment. Similarly, they must also identify unnecessary expenses that can be avoided in the initial stages. For instance, if a startup can function with its employees working remotely, the entrepreneur need not spend money to rent an office space. Instead, they can direct their funds toward things that would actually benefit their business, like providing better salaries to employees. 4. Undervaluing the product A big mistake that new startups must avoid when they are launching their product is undervaluing it. Entrepreneurs may be inclined to set low prices to seem better than their competitors. However, in the long run, this could impact the business negatively. For instance, a low-priced product may be perceived to be inferior in quality by the target audience. Additionally, if a startup prices its products or services too low, it may struggle to make profits or even meet its operational expenses. 5. Rushing the hiring process Building a workforce is a crucial step for startups. It helps one manage the operations and the clients better, which would eventually lead to the growth of the business. However, in the initial stages, it is better for a startup to delay hiring full-time employees as long as possible and instead opt for freelancers or part-timers. Also, when it is time for a startup to begin hiring full-time workers, it is important to be patient during the process. This is because each applicant’s skill level, experience, and other similar factors have to be carefully considered to determine if they are the right fit. This can influence the initial growth of the business. 6. Ignoring intellectual property rights For any business, the products or services are the most important assets. If the offering is something unique or self-created, one must protect it. One can do so by applying for relevant patents and copyrights. Besides its products, a small business startup must also protect its other intellectual properties (IP), like the name of its business, its tagline, trade secrets, and other creative inventions that contribute toward building the identity and USP of the business. Failing to protect intellectual property can expose business creations to theft and unauthorized use.

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6 of the most recognized running shoe brands

6 of the most recognized running shoe brands

If you want to invest in a pair of good-quality running shoes, choose one from a brand that specializes in making them for professional and casual runners. Look for a manufacturer that offers good arch and pronation support that matches the shape and size of your feet. Generally, a pair of running shoes cost between $110 and $150, while some iconic and popular shoes may cost higher. To help you choose from the top brands, here are the leading running shoe brands that are popular among runners: Brooks Brooks is originally from Canada and operates in the U.S. The brand has been making shoes since 1914 and started making running shoes after the Olympics in 1972. The collaboration of Jerry Turner from Brooks, David Schwaber of a rubber company, and Marty Liquori, a long-distance runner, created a cushiony midsole material from ethylene vinyl acetate. Using this, they introduced the Brooks Villanova in 1975. Their pioneering innovation then became the norm for other brands making sneakers. Some of its other innovations of Brooks include a removable sock line, silicone fluid, GORE-TEX, diagonal rollbar, use of pods on the outsole, and use of flexible material under the ball of the foot. Some of the most well-known running shoes from Brooks include the MOGO series, Green Silence, PureProject, Transcend, and the DNA series.
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4 timeless jewelry pieces every woman must own

Every woman, irrespective of age, uniquely expresses her fashion style. And accessories play an important role in the manner of expression. If you think that classic metal or gemstone jewelry is expensive or unsuitable for everyday use, it’s time to change your opinion. Some must-own timeless jewelry pieces can never go out of style. They instantly amp up your look no matter the outfit and garner eyeballs wherever you go. Make these exquisite jewelry options yours now.  Stud earrings Stud earrings are dainty yet elegant pieces of jewelry. They fit quite well on the top of your ear, emitting the right amount of sheen. It has a singular point with a post that passes through the pierced ear, connected through a backing or a clutch behind the ear. The stud, the main part of the earning, can be made of bare metal like gold, silver, or platinum and/or hold a gemstone like a diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, coral, or pearl. The size of the stud and the type of stone could determine the price of the pair of earrings. While stud earrings made with precious stones can be expensive, you can opt for those affordable options with semiprecious stones like turquoise, rose quartz, or garnets.
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5 leading SUVs and useful buying tips

Sports utility vehicles, or SUVs, have come a long way from being mere large-family vehicles to one of the most versatile and in-demand passenger cars. They are safe, well-designed, spacious, and fun to drive. The large-SUV market segment’s revenue is estimated to reach $148.60 billion in 2022. With increasing interest and demand, many new or redesigned models have entered the market. Here are a few leading SUVs to look for: Hyundai Tucson Hyundai has redesigned the Tucson completely. The 2022 version has multiple trim levels, including a sporty N Line model and a rugged XRT model. It also has three different powertrain options: hybrid, gasoline, and plug-in hybrid. Further, the 2022 Tucson has upgraded infotainment systems, multiple rear USB ports, Wi-Fi hotspot, top-class safety features, and driver-assistance technologies like cruise control, blind-spot collision avoidance systems, and driver attention warning. The price of the 2022 Tucson starts at around $25,350. Jeep Grand Cherokee Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-sized SUV. The 2022 variant, redesigned to offer a smoother ride, can accommodate five passengers in its top-class interiors with comfortable and supportive seats. The car has three powertrains: the existing V-6 and V-9 and a 4xe plug-in for the hybrid variant. Rear-wheel drive is standard in all models with V-6.
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3 important factors to consider before buying new tires

3 important factors to consider before buying new tires

New all-season tires last for about six to seven years with minimal use and about three to five years if you drive about 12,000 to 15,000 miles a year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that worn-out tires cause 11,000 accidents every year. To ensure your safety and others on the road, you must change your tires as and when required. Before you buy them, keep the following points in mind: Know to read the tire codes Learn about the tire code to know the right tire for your automobile. If you look carefully, you will notice a code with letters and numbers on the sidewall of your tire. Knowing the tire codes is important to buy similar or better tires that fit your wheel. Some of the relevant codes you need to know when you buy a new tire are: Tire type – the first alphabets indicate the tire type P for passenger cars LT for light truck tires ST stands for special trailer tires T for temporary or spare tires Tread width The three-digit number represents the tread width, the distance between sidewall edges in millimeters, followed by a slash and a ratio. Aspect ratio A two-digit number follows the slash and indicates the tire height from bead to tread.
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4 hair styling tools that give a salon-like look

4 hair styling tools that give a salon-like look

If you like to style your hair frequently without having to spend money at salons, you can invest in some basic hair styling tools. These tools can create beach waves or curls or even straighten them out. There are many hair styling tools that are versatile, easy to use, and do little or no damage to your hair. If you want to invest in hair styling tools, here are a few tools to check out: Hair straightener and curler Combining a hair straightener and curler that is suitable for all hair types allows you the freedom to try out trending hairstyles. Look for a professional straightener or curler with a ceramic or copper flat iron. Choose a flat iron that allows you to control the temperature so that you don’t damage your hair. Experts claim that setting the straightener or curler to temperatures as high as 455 degrees can help straighten the most challenging and rigid curls. The copper ceramic tools also ensure that the hair doesn’t break while you are straightening, leaving your hair straight and smooth once you are done. You can also choose regular and smart Bluetooth straighteners to help you choose the best temperature and care settings every time you use the tool.
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8 effective remedies for nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are tiny tear-shaped growths in the nose and sinuses, usually brought on by asthma, infection, allergies, or other kinds of inflammation. These polyps are usually painless and non-cancerous, however, they can be big enough to cause itchiness, breathing difficulties, sneezing, and running nose. Doctors usually prescribe nasal sprays that can relieve the symptoms and get rid of the polyps. However, one can also try a few natural remedies to deal with the condition: Neti pot (or nasal irrigation) Neti pot is a popular and convenient nasal irrigation device. All one has to do is fill this container with saline solution or add 1–2 tsp salt to distilled water or boiled (and then cooled) tap water. Then, one would have to lean over a washbasin or a sink and tilt their head sideways so that the liquid does not flow back into the mouth. One would have to breathe through the mouth, insert the spout into the upper nostril and allow the fluid to drain from the lower nostril. Then the nostrils will have to be cleaned by blowing the nose to remove mucus and dirt. This process should be repeated through the other nostril. The goal is to loosen and clear the mucus and debris like dust or pollen from the nasal cavity.
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