Digital marketing is the lifeblood of modern businesses. However, with constant algorithm updates, evolving trends, and increasing competition, it’s tempting for businesses, especially small ones, to abandon some marketing strategies when they don’t see instant results. Here’s the truth—not all digital marketing tactics yield quick wins, but that doesn’t mean they’re not worth the effort.
Let’s explore eight digital marketing tactics you should stick with according to a leading digital marketing agency in Arlington— why they’re worth your time, and how you can execute them effectively for lasting success.
1. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
SEO might not deliver results overnight, but it’s a foundational digital marketing strategy you can’t afford to neglect. Ranking higher on search engine results pages (SERPs) ensures your business stays visible to potential customers actively searching for products or services like yours.
Why It’s Worth It
- Organic Visibility: Unlike paid advertising, organic traffic doesn’t require consistent spending.
- Long-Term Value: Evergreen content that ranks well can bring steady traffic for months or even years.
How to Execute This Strategy
- Optimize On-Page SEO: Use the right keywords, meta tags, and alt texts for your images. Tools like SEMrush or Ahrefs can help identify relevant keywords.
- Create Quality Content: Regular blog posts, guides, and videos that solve your audience’s problems can drive traffic.
- Technical SEO Matters: Focus on site speed, mobile optimization, and secure HTTPS connections.
For example, a local coffee shop optimizing “best coffee shops near me” could rank on Google Maps and attract more foot traffic.
2. Content Marketing
They say “content is king,” and it still holds true. According to Brandon George of a top content marketing services agency—informative, engaging, and relevant content lays the groundwork for gaining trust and establishing authority in your niche.
Why It’s Worth It
- Drives Traffic: High-quality content attracts repeat visitors.
- Educates and Converts: Answering questions and solving problems often leads to conversions.
How to Execute This Strategy
- Be Consistent: Whether it’s weekly blog posts, monthly newsletters, or a steady flow of TikToks, keep at it.
- Repurpose Content: Turn blogs into videos or infographics to maximize reach.
- Hub Content: Create pillar pages on major topics, and write supporting blogs to link back to them, improving site structure.
For example, a digital marketer could write about “How to Use AI in Content Marketing” and create related posts like “Top AI Tools for Blog Writers.”
3. Email Marketing
Email marketing might feel old, but it remains an effective tool for nurturing customer relationships and increasing lifetime value.
Why It’s Worth It
- Direct and Personal: You’re speaking directly to customers in a highly personal space—their inbox.
- High ROI: Research shows email marketing delivers a $36 return for every $1 spent.
How to Execute This Strategy
- Segment Your Lists: Tailor messaging for different demographic or interest groups.
- Share Value: Send updates, discounts, or exclusive insights rather than just sales pitches.
- Craft Catchy Headlines: First impressions matter—make your subject lines irresistible.
For example, an online bookstore could send “5 Must-Read Novels This Summer” with a 15% discount code for subscribers.
4. Social Media Marketing
Many businesses struggle with low engagement on social platforms and eventually give up. However, the key is developing authentic connections over time.
Why It’s Worth It
- Brand Awareness: Social platforms put your business front and center for large audiences.
- Community Engagement: Connect with your audience directly and gather real feedback.
How to Execute This Strategy
- Choose the Right Platforms: If you’re targeting millennials, Instagram and TikTok are your go-to platforms. For B2B, focus on LinkedIn.
- Leverage Analytics: Use insights to refine posts that perform better.
- Go Live or Use Stories: These formats often outperform regular posts in terms of engagement.
A small bakery could share behind-the-scenes Stories of breadmaking or go live with a Q&A session.
5. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising
Yes, PPC campaigns can get costly, but when done right, they’re an effective tool for driving targeted traffic.
Why It’s Worth It
- Immediate Results: PPC drives instant traffic compared to organic efforts that take longer.
- Highly Targeted Campaigns: You choose who sees your ads based on demographics, behavior, and more.
How to Execute This Strategy
- Use Specific Keywords: Long-tail keywords (e.g., “eco-friendly laptop bags for women”) often have better ROI as they attract high-intent customers.
- A/B Test Ads: Experiment with headlines, images, and copy to determine what resonates most.
- Retargeting Ads: Show ads to people who previously visited your website but didn’t convert.
For example, a SaaS business can run retargeting ads on Facebook for users who abandoned the free trial sign-up page.
6. Video Marketing
Video is taking the digital world by storm and for good reason. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram Reels, and TikTok are critical channels for engaging audiences with digestible content.
Why It’s Worth It
- High Engagement Rates: People are more likely to share videos than text-based content.
- Teaches Better: Short explainer videos can effectively explain complex ideas.
How to Execute This Strategy
- Keep It Short and Sweet: Videos between 1-2 minutes perform best.
- Add Subtitles: Many watch videos on silent, so captions increase accessibility.
- Optimize for Search: Use descriptive titles and relevant keywords in your video descriptions.
For instance, a small vegan skincare company could create a 1-minute “how-to” video demonstrating the proper way to apply its signature face serum.
7. Local SEO
If your business serves a local area, investing in local SEO is essential to staying competitive.
Why It’s Worth It
- Attracts Nearby Customers: 46% of all Google searches are seeking local information.
- Cost-Effective Marketing: Local SEO can outrank competitors without requiring a big ad budget.
How to Execute This Strategy
- Claim Your Google My Business Listing: Fill in your contact details, operating hours, and service areas.
- Encourage Reviews: Positive reviews improve trust and click-through rates.
- Use Local Keywords: Include target city names, such as “pizza restaurant in Austin.”
For example, a home cleaning service could add keywords like “best home cleaners near me” in their blog and profile content.
8. Influencer Partnerships
Partnering with influencers can give even smaller brands a credibility boost by leveraging their trusted platforms to spread the word.
Why It’s Worth It
- Builds Trust: Consumers trust recommendations from real people over ads.
- Cost-Effective Marketing: Micro-influencers often have engaged, niche audiences.
How to Execute This Strategy
- Look for Niche Influencers: Bigger accounts don’t always mean better results—micro-influencers with high audience trust can outperform.
- Create Campaign Guidelines: Clearly outline deliverables, deadlines, and brand tone.
- Offer Value: Provide influencers with free products, commission-based contracts, or exclusive previews.
For example, a fitness apparel brand can send free gear to a local fitness coach to wear and share during their social media workouts.
Summing Up
While some digital marketing tactics, like PPC, deliver quicker wins, others, like SEO or content marketing, take time to yield significant results. The key is to remain consistent, adapt to changing trends, and focus on providing value at every touchpoint.
Whether you’re a small business owner or a digital marketer, these eight strategies should remain staples in your marketing toolbox. Stay committed, and remember—the payoff is worth the effort.