gearing up for 2021

Thankfully, 2020’s almost a wrap. Has there ever been a stranger year?

This year brought an odd blend of catastrophe and opportunity. Because of the pandemic, many smaller businesses are still in survival mode. We’ve helped a number of them strategically redirect during these recent change-filled months. Fortunate businesses have really found their wings through this time.

Now, finally, 2021 is within reach. Where is your business headed? What have you learned throughout the year? It’s time to make a plan.

Whether you’ve got a consumer business or B2B firm, now’s the time to take a step back and get organized. Our new, improved 2021 Marketing Checklist can help.

1 2020 review: With all the twists and turns this year, how did you need to adapt your business marketing strategy? What worked and what didn’t? Did you reach your targets? How has the market shifted in the past year relative to your business? What new opportunities are available?

2 2021 marketing plan: What are your specific marketing plans for 2021? Will you just make some minor adjustments or do you need a full-on marketing makeover? Consider all the marketing tools a small business needs: A strategy for success, eye-catching promotional materials with strong and relevant messaging, the right communication channels and media outlets, and effective ways to develop relationships that lead to sales in the Covid era.

3 website design: How’s the design of your website holding up? Is it outdated? Is the messaging current? Is it easy for users to navigate and find what they need? We recommend a web design and content refresh every two years for most businesses.

4 website maintenance: Backend maintenance is essential to keep your website secure and functioning smoothly. Updates are released continuously, which means maintenance is needed at least every three months.

5 branding/rebranding: How does your brand meet changing customer needs in this volatile marketplace? Are your target customers actively engaging with you and your business? Does your messaging effectively communicate your value proposition? Don’t underestimate the importance of keeping your brand relevant and fresh.

6 digital advertising: Is your web presence optimized for search engines? How much attention is Google paying to your business? How effective is your social media strategy? Whether you sell online or just promote your business there, your success depends on keeping up with the latest algorithms, trends and technology.

More marketing ideas here.

get started today

Plan your fresh start now and thrive in the new year. Learn about our level-up package designed to help small businesses make the most of 2021 and beyond.

Over the past several months we’ve been working with exceptional entrepreneurs committed to blazing a new trail in this fast-changing landscape. If you or someone you know needs professional marketing, web design or branding help, contact me today to explore options.

To get started now, schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your needs.