Email Campaign Marketing – 3 Tips to Bring You Up-to-Date

Posted on May 24, 2013 by admin

14765881_sBrands are increasingly realizing that to deliver effective email campaign marketing, they have to reach out to would-be buyers through a diverse platform that covers all the communication bases. There are many relevant channels that cross paths, and learning how to thread these various channels into a cohesive marketing strategy is key to maximizing return on investment.

An article covered at Direct Marketing News provides some guidelines for creating email campaign marketing that is up-to-speed and current for 2013:

1. Utilize Text Opt-Ins for Building Your Email List. Growth of your email campaign marketing efforts can piggyback off your mobile strategy. Consumers don’t really differentiate email, text, and social media – they mainly expect consistency regardless of what method they use to communicate. The type of content will dictate which channel most appropriately serves their needs, but one way of building an email acquisition program is really as simple as asking SMS users to opt-in and provide their email address.

2. Optimize Mobile Templates for Easy Use. Per Neilsen data, about 50 percent of our nation has a smartphone, and that number is growing. It is estimated that email is accessible in a range of nearly 100 screen sizes. To ensure a consistent user experience, marketers must take advantage of responsive design templates that make it easy for consumers to access information on-the-go. Mobile optimization of email and landing pages brings important information to the forefront and can ensure a better email campaign marketing outcome.

3. Concentrate on the Big Picture. It’s more important to focus on the ultimate customer experience than it is to construct a campaign that focuses on a particular individual message. Creating a unified communication experience will give consumers a better grasp of what your brand stands for and what they can expect from you. Communications should focus on cultivating loyal relationships through such means as incentives and special offers.

If you’re looking for a partner to help you expand your email campaign marketing, give us a call. As marketing continues to go digital, choosing the right technology and partner to help you implement it is half the battle.

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Search Engine Optimization Guidelines to Live By

Posted on May 23, 2013 by admin

12208015_sBecause search engines are continually changing, it’s hard to stay abreast on all search engine optimization guidelines. However, to keep your website up and running and away from those pesky penalties, you must follow the guidelines established for individual and unique aspects of your business. When it comes to search engine optimization, there are three key aspects to avoid penalties: partner links, sponsored content, and eCommerce partnerships.

It’s best to start by really understanding the difference between partner links and sponsored content. Partner links and sponsored content work in a similar way yet one is paid for and the other isn’t. Google won’t be impressed that you didn’t earn these partner links but there are things you can do to avoid penalties.

Not every company link on your page is one or the other. Consistency is the common denominator. You are linking that particular company on a regular basis and visa versa. Your company should be linked on their website, too.

Partner links are commonly used to search for new customers and gaining an audience.

In order to avoid Google coming down with the hammer, you may want to enable a “no follow”. Google tends to be a little more lax with these links however these links aren’t earned either. None the less, the increasing use of these links is gaining ground so be prepared to tag them with “no follow” and communicate that with your designated partners.

Your determination to boost your online presence has no doubt turned to sponsored content. This is more than advertising since companies are paying for audience targeted content. To increase search engine optimization without raising a red flad, add “no follow” to any and all links for sponsored content. Once again, Google wants you to earn those links and adding that no follow to your content can ensure that.

Another way to avoid penalties is to keep your Google News site map free and clear of sponsored content. It’s only to include articles that mention you have a sponsor but not content written for a particular sponsor. There is a big difference.

Susan J. Campbell Copywriting Solutions can help you avoid these penalties. eCommerce content is very similar to sponsored content for search engine optimization. Both utilize affiliate links within specific content and both are frowned upon by Google. Like sponsored content, we suggest using a no follow. Go over your website and really sort out which links are which and by putting them into one of these three categories you can move forward with search optimization.

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Four Ways to Experience the Power of Pinterest

Posted on May 22, 2013 by admin

14625458_sIf you’re looking to spice up your content marketing strategy, the answer may lie in the neatly organized, visually stimulating world of Pinterest. No longer just a woman’s playground, Pinterest is gaining some serious clout when it comes to viewership. Businesses are starting to realize the potential of the social network, and we’re not just talking award-winning pumpkin pie.

At this point, the potential for Pinterest is pretty limitless. Maybe that’s why it’s continued to experience growth over the past year-and-a-half. A recent Social Media Today blog features some creative ways your brand can use Pinterest:

  • Share How-to Tips. Show viewers ways they can put your products to good use. People are more likely to make use of something if they know how to apply it. Maybe you sell clothing items, so you create a board that shows 15 ways to wear a scarf. Another idea is to take a basic that everyone has in his or closet like black pants and show how to pair it with different items from your collection.

  • Promote a Contest. Pin-it-to-win-it contests are nothing new, but they are a great way to get customers engaged and talking about your brand. For instance, start a contest where fans can share success stories or creative applications for your products. Then, let the best pin win! Companies like Volkswagen, Land’s End, and Macy’s have been known to interact with their fans via Pinterest contests.

  • Encourage Employee Sharing. Have trusted employees create their own boards where they can share information. Employees are brand ambassadors, and Pinterest is a creative way for them to showcase their expertise. In the clothing store example, employees could post pictures of some of their favorite finds or explain how new styles of denim fit.

  • Experiment with Various Media. Pinterest pins often feature still images, but they can also showcase video tutorials, blogs, or links to e-books. Be creative when it comes to your material; posting a variety of content sparks interest and can be wonderful source of fresh traffic.

When it comes to Pinterest, trust the experts, and don’t be afraid to try something new. The results may surprise you.

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Five Pieces of Content Marketing Advice – Go Big or Go Home

Posted on May 21, 2013 by admin

17278229_mBack in the old days when a man was to marry, he had to pay the bride price for his wife to her family. This entailed offering hefty sums of money and parting with other expensive goods and elements of wealth such as livestock. Essentially, the groom-to-be had to offer his best if he was to woo his future in-laws into parting with their daughter.

The same goes for courting with content marketing. We can’t expect mediocre content to inspire, motivate, or empower consumers into taking action. A recent blog from Socialmediatoday.com offers some tips about how to put your best foot forward when it comes to producing top-notch content marketing.

1. Meet a Need. Ask yourself if your content is helping the target audience to satisfy a need or solve a problem that they might have. This will require some research into the issues your viewers deem most important.

2. Be Special. Your content marketing should provide that special something that followers can’t just find anywhere. Otherwise, why should they bother? Dig deep and uncover what you have to offer that presents unique value or sets you apart from the crowd.

3. Offer Fresh Appeal. Don’t present content that’s old or outdated. Remember, you’re offering your best – that means that your material should be relevant and current.

4. Speak with Uplifting Tone. Let’s face it, nobody likes a complainer. Your blogs should not be confused for long-drawn-out rants about all things negative. This reflects back on you, leaving a sour impression of your brand! Sometimes it’s ok to rant, but the majority of the time your content marketing should be uplifting and positive.

5. Reveal Tips and Tricks. Y’know – stuff people can use – the stuff that has viewers sit up and take notice because it makes their lives easier or more interesting. This is the content that drives traffic, is highly shareable, and helps solidify your brand as a credible, go-to source of information.

There’s more to content marketing than just what meets the eye. If you need help engaging your viewers in a fresh, meaningful way, call us at Susan J. Campbell Copywriting Solutions.

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Monday Morning Coffee with Alisha Corbet

Posted on May 20, 2013 by admin

New Picture (4)When the phone continues to ring because companies recognize the value you bring to the market, it’s always a good problem. When this ringing phone leads to a heavier workload, a new job may need to be created. This was the case for us at Susan J. Campbell Copywriting Solutions in the last month. As our business continues to expand and we strive to meet the growing needs of a diverse customer base, we need new talent to support these efforts. Our latest addition is Alisha Corbet.

Coming on board as our part-time Strategy Coordinator, Alisha will wear a number of different hats, supporting our efforts in not only content creation, but also social media management, brand and marketing strategies, results reporting for clients and other tasks that help us continue to push our efforts in a positive direction. By shifting these important activities to this talented individual, we can deliver a better experience for all clients.

A graduate of Baker University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Alisha worked for American Family Insurance for nearly 10 years. For eight years of that time, she worked in Commercial Lines and then transferred into Commercial Lines Premium Audit Unit.

With a daughter (Adalynn) who had reached the age of one in January, Alisha felt God was leading her down a different path, one that didn’t include a full-time job. Alisha spent a few months dabbling in phone auditing and personal care assistance before we realized we needed to add another position and that Alisha possessed the exact talent and ambition we needed to round out our team.

Along with her husband Aaron, Alisha has a heart for God and family. “Our focus is to raise our daughter and any other children that we may have in a Godly home,” she says. “As a mom, I want to be there for my daughter and my family. Right now that means singing, dancing, and being silly, soaking up the little moments that are so precious and tend to fly by.”

In addition to her new position at SJC, Alisha is active in her church, leading a young adult small group, helping with the mom’s group and volunteering in the nursery. Her hobbies include scrapbooking, journaling, gardening, cooking and baking. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends.

Alisha has already completed a few weeks training within the SJC environment and we are thrilled at the talents she brings to the table. She continues to absorb information, asking questions where needed and taking on challenges with fresh energy. We’re excited that she has joined our team and can’t wait to see what we are able to accomplish with her talent helping us along the way.

Welcome aboard, Alisha!

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What’s Affecting your Search Engine Optimization?

Posted on May 16, 2013 by admin

14783269_mDo you have a business that you’d like to see gain more traffic and attention? Increasing sales is an age-old battle that all companies have faced at one time or another. Something you might find interesting is that nearly all consumers conduct online searches to identify and review local businesses. This means that your placement in the search rankings is more important than ever if you want to gain exposure, and the best way to raise your rank is through search engine optimization tactics. 

According to a recent article featured by Social Media Today, almost 70 percent of all search results are impacted by a particular geographic location, and of Google inquiries, 20 percent are for  information within the local area. So say goodbye to Yellow Page ads and embrace search engine optimization. Here are some things impacting your local rank:

  • High domain authority
    The better the domain authority, the more viable it will be against other rivaling domains. An improvement to domain authority can be achieved by employing relevant search engine optimization techniques.

  • Location info mentioned on landing page
    If your company’s city and state of operation are not mentioned on your website landing page, you are not optimizing your search ranks.

  • Number of honorable mentions
    For instance, being listed in the local phone directory helps Google confirm you’re a legitimate area business. For best search engine optimization results, submit directory information to providers online.

  • Quantity of Google+ reviews in the area
    Google+ reviews are thought to carry the most weight, so make sure that your business is showing some feedback on the Local Page for Google+.

  • Physical location in the city of inquiry
    When a consumer conducts a business search but doesn’t specify an address, results will be limited to only those companies within the local area of the person initiating the search.

  • Correct labeling
    Ensure your business comes up in the right category. If you operate a floral shop, it should show up in the Google+ florist category. When no category fits, it’s imperative to create a detailed custom category to help consumers find you.

There are many factors impacting search engine optimization. To achieve the best results, it’s wise to seek the advice of a professional.

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Content Marketing Can Offer the SEO You Desire

Posted on May 15, 2013 by admin

14311046_mThe answers are only a few short clicks away, and customers know it.

Search engines are the number one tool to research information on nearly every product and service on the market today. Accessibility to the Internet, in turn, is making the use of search engines all the more common.

Content marketing goals should include getting the attention of search engines like Google and Bing. After all, they are the two top search engines out there and their ratings matter. Improving overall rankings will lead to more customers and better business. Those that are equipped to better understand its content marketing capabilities will find success this way.

If you still aren’t convinced of its potential, the facts speak for themselves. At least 97 percent of consumers search for local businesses online? Geography and specified locations influenced about 69 percent of searches with nearly 20 percent of Google searches made looking for local information.

Here are some tips to increasing your search engine optimization rankings.

  • Be specific. Google will limit the listings displayed to your proximity. Make sure and include your physical address in the searched city.

  • When categorizing your business, be sure to place yourself accurately. Think general on the first listing and then be more specific on the second listing. If you are a floor contractor, go contractor first, flooring specialist second.

  • Remember to include your actual address so that Google can connect you to its already established city center. This will help direct searches.

  • In order to be competitive with other domains, Google+ Local Page will need you to be commanding and relevant with your website. This is the only way to stay on top of the game.

  • Make sure you get your business’ name out there. The most effective way to do this is to submit your data to online providers and directories.

  • Keep the city and state of your business in the first line of your website. If you can add it into your web address, even better.

  • Reviews are the quickest way to boost SEO. The more Google+ local reviews, the higher your ranking.

  • Keep everything consistent. There’s nothing worse than having your old phone number listed in a directory. Make sure the exact address, including spelling, and information is the same on every piece of data that gets submitted to these providers.

Just remember that details are everything. You never know what a potential customer could be typing in on their next search. Help make their choice easier by guiding them to your business.

At Susan J. Campbell Copywriting we know content marketing and have the solutions to guide you to higher rankings, give us a call today.

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There are Tools for Creating Content. Let Us Help You Find Them

Posted on May 14, 2013 by admin

18655130_mAlmost overnight many companies were on Facebook, Twitter and even had their own YouTube channels. Others began experimenting with Instagram and Vine when some businesses didn’t even know they existed. But those that were even further ahead of the game know that creating content that’s popular on their site drives the search engine. It’s a golden opportunity.

However, a large percentage of those same companies lack the follow through it takes to sustain long term in the market. While they know the power of social media, they have failed to execute their content marketing plan.

Wouldn’t it be easy if you had photo and content sharing capabilities built into your website? Shuttlerock gives users versatile options that are more dimensional than what you’ve been doing. It allows you to generate photos and stories and let your customers, staff, and fans share them through their individual social media outlets.

Several companies have found successful results with Shuttlerock. According to a recent article, Black Cat Cruises was able to double their online sales and increase their user sessions by creating 850 photos in just six months. A football team in Queensland used Shuttlerock to generate 233 images from a mere seven content boards in the first month.

Shuttlerock is a great tool that is not only easy to use but offers a real solution to fresh and relevant content for your website and blogs. It is a platform that gives interaction between customers, staff, fans, and supports increased engagement and more sales.

Creating content at this caliber is content marketing at its finest. It will give you more satisfying interaction with customers and their “friends” while maintaining control over the content and conversations as well as :

  • A continual cycle of fresh content driven through all of your companies networking channels.

  • Search engine rankings that will increase and so will the social media action that Shuttlerock influences.

  • Build that customer email list you’ve always wanted.

 

At Susan J. Campbell Copywriting Solutions we specialize in strong content and can help you find the tools you need to for a strong content marketing strategy.

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Monday Morning Coffee with Mi Amor Cake Design

Posted on May 13, 2013 by admin

miamorTis the season for …. Cake. Lots and lots of cake. Graduations, honoring Mom, baby baptisms, and weddings are just a few of the cake-friendly occasions happening nationwide right now.

Here’s an example from Mi Amor Cake Design, showcasing a few simple ways to stand out in a market that offers plenty of options for desserts, baked goods, custom cookies and designer cakes. Regardless of your industry, it’s always smart to consider how you can stand out as well.

Mi Amor is a relative new-comer to the cupcake and custom cake scene, and is in what some would consider a non-mainstream location. Yet this little St. Joseph, Mo., bakery is quickly reaching 700 Facebook fans, with active engagement and customer comments and questions. They were featured in a full-length news story for their technique and artistry, and have continued to grow in popularity. The catchy tagline seems to convey the philosophy for the business:  “Where love and art make cake.” What else are they doing to succeed?

1. A simple website that wholly promotes social media. The Mi Amor website has little text on the homepage; rather it’s chock full of photos and a large banner that urges guests to like them on Facebook for special discounts. This is not just a tiny Facebook icon; it’s a full-out invitation.

2. Nothing says a great product like tons of photos. The website and social media tools used by Mi Amor feature several eye-catching views of their products, some they’ve posted and some from their customers. If you’re not offering a visually-exciting product, think about the lifestyle your product or service conveys. Capture photos related to that. People like pictures.

3. Following popular trends and being flexible. Mi Amor offers cakes that follow current trends for TV shows, characters and what’s being seen by customers on major food channels. The premise here is to pay attention to what customers are looking for and asking for, and do your best to offer something similar. The end result is a bit of “star” quality, as people feel like they’re getting the hot national trend experience even in their own hometown.

4. Participate in local events and rally these events with your social media. Recently Mi Amor asked guests to come and see them at a civic event, with the sweet carrot of offering cheap cake pops. This shows they are involved in their community, and customers respond to that.

These tools and more can help you gain an unique brand identity, and they all start with a content creation strategy that truly speaks to your customers. Today at Susan J. Campbell Copywriting Solutions we say yes, you can have your cake — and eat it too.

Posted in Content Marketing, Copywriting, Monday Morning Coffee, Social Media, Social Media Marketing, Support Local | Leave a comment