There\u2019s a lot that has changed in the last year, mainly\u00a0driven by the pandemic and the way it has impacted life. So it\u2019s no surprise that marketing for many businesses\u00a0looks\u00a0different\u00a0going into the new year. Adapting your strategy is\u00a0more\u00a0important\u00a0than ever as we approach\u00a02022.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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One of the big developments is that businesses need to be more personal and show a different side of themselves. This means less of the corporate look and polished headshots and more of the real team photos and behind the scenes images. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
These images are great to use in marketing. Photos of\u00a0people\u00a0in the office help\u00a0customers\u00a0relate\u00a0to\u00a0you.\u00a0By using real images and snippets of the people working in the company,\u00a0customers\u00a0can also\u00a0connect with staff quicker\u00a0if they visit the business in person or speak to\u00a0them\u00a0on the phone.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Customers want to deal with smaller businesses and have a personal touch. Lots of people have had somewhat negative experiences with big faceless organisations during the pandemic. And the realisation that the last year or so has been particularly hard on small companies has increased the desire to work with them where possible. So highlighting your local credentials is a sensible approach. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, remember that more people than ever are working at home. Small businesses are best placed to understand this and to give customers what they need. So if you have services or facilities that people working from home\u00a0can\u00a0use, make sure you highlight them.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Local marketing has always been important but with the complications due to Brexit and other issues, making use of the local network is even more crucial. Therefore having good marketing you can share with businesses around you is very important. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Distribute\u00a0flyers or business cards\u00a0to\u00a0local businesses that don\u2019t offer competing services but whose customers might be interested in what you do and vice versa. Having\u00a0a\u00a0network of local businesses can help you grow your local audience substantially and\u00a0at very little\u00a0cost.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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It\u2019s also a good idea to showcase values, work ethics and things that the business is involved with outside of the core products and services you offer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, if you have a goal to go paperless, or stop using single-use plastic don\u2019t be afraid to talk about these in marketing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you do voluntary work or partner with a charity, then highlight this. Not only does it help humanise your business but it offers free exposure for the charity or cause you are working with. <\/p>\n\n\n\n