Mobile devices are overtaking PC’s as the most searched. That is why it is very important for you to recognize that you might be missing out on a big opportunity if you are not advertising on mobile devices.
There’s no denying that smartphones and other handheld devices play an important role in our lives. At work or at home, we use mobile devices to stay in touch and to get things done. That’s why it’s important to have a well-designed mobile strategy for your business.
The Basics
To create a mobile strategy, one must first consider the basics: who, what, why, and how.
Who are you clients and how will they want to engage with your content? What are you client’s needs? What devices will your audience use to access your mobile content, and how will they use it?
How will your mobile content engage your audience? Your strategy will need to involve multiple ways that your audience will connect to your content, such as Text or SMS/MMS, Bluetooth messaging, marketing campaigns, mobile coupons and geo-location.
Mobile Web Sites
One strategy you may want to consider is to set up a subdomain specifically for mobile phones. When a user types in your main URL, your site detects that that they are visiting the site from a mobile device and redirects them to your subdomain. That way the user experience from the phone is different than the user experience at a computer. Your mobile site should load quickly quickly and provide a simple, streamlined experience. In fact, many small business owners now use website solutions that provide semi-automatic cookie-cutter mobile sites.
Mobile Apps
Another component of your mobile strategy is the creation of a mobile app. There are now mobile apps available that provide information, education, and entertainment. In order for your business to have a successful mobile app, you must have a thorough understanding of your audience, and build an application that is useful and valuable. Most app users interact with a mobile app for a single specific purpose. You may even want to consider offering a free version of your app and then let users decide whether or not they are willing invest in a premium version with more features and content.
Mobile Coupons
Next, you should consider delivering coupons and specials via mobile devices in an effort to appeal to your customers. Users should have the option of printing a coupon using their computer or sharing and saving a coupon to their mobile phones to be presented for redemption.
Mobile Campaigns and Ads
Finally, use mobile marketing solutions such as campaigns and ads to drive participation at exhibitions or to drive traffic to your retail locations. If you have two seats left for an event, send a message offering a discount. Be sure to make offers that are in tuned with the buying habits of your customers, synchronizing your messaging with your customers’ purchase history or favorites.
