By Contributing Author
As the new kid on the block, startup business owners have their work cut out for them. Most new businesses will find it difficult to compete with more established companies in their industry that enjoy both greater brand recognition and financial backing. Though, just because making a splash with a new company is difficult, it doesn’t mean the task is impossible. Indeed, even with limited funding, startups can still get off to a flying start and make a great first impression in their first few weeks of operation. Here are four ways how:
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Prioritize Prep Work
Just as a chef prepares sauces and other accoutrements before a dinner service, so too do business owners need to have their websites and social-media pages sorted before they launch a new business. Even if you’re technically “open,” you probably won’t see any movement until you start promoting your website and social-media efforts. With that in mind, make sure to have all the kinks ironed out before you take anything live.
Use Your Personal Brand
Now that we’ve covered the basics, it’s time to get creative. In fact, creativity is often what separates successful startups from the rest of the pack. Since you don’t have the resources to go head-to-head with larger competitors, instead focus on what makes you and your company special. Provide visitors to your site with information about who you are and what you do. It’s especially important for new companies to build trust with potential clients –– so don’t be afraid to list your previous work or industry experience prominently on your site. Though your company’s brand may not be fully developed yet, your personal brand can help you win customers right out of the gate.
Do Something Different
To continue on our previous point, it’s essential that your digital marketing content offers something different from that of your competitors. Since SEO efforts will take plenty of time to materialize and advertisements can prove cost-prohibitive, your content needs to stand out. Whether your business specializes in manufacturing lab equipment like drawing needles, or you provide logistics solutions, your website copy has to be dynamic and engaging all the same. Let your readers know how your company can address their problems better, faster, cheaper, (etc.) than anyone else.
Energize Your Customer Base
Contrary to popular belief, you can draw supporters to your brand by making smart, progressive decisions. Partnering with a local charity, for instance, can offer your business the chance to win some positive PR within your local community. What’s more, you should encourage customer feedback early on to establish your business through reviews on third-party sites. Plus, you can interview satisfied patrons and include their testimony in case studies and blog posts down the line. Remember, anything you can do to spark conversation about your business in a positive light is worth doing –– particularly if you want to experience a great start!
