The coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has brought about many changes and has posed a huge challenge among businesses. For over a year, the pandemic has led some businesses to fall while some continue to struggle. As lockdowns were being implemented, many businesses were forced to shut down operations or open remotely. In doing so, most companies have seen sharp declines in sales and business inquiries. On the other hand, some businesses have developed new strategies and drastic steps in order to keep their companies afloat while gaining revenue despite the adverse circumstances in this difficult time.
The Growing Role of Digital Marketing
Most entrepreneurs in internet marketing believe that adapting to new conditions as much as possible can avoid more losses as the quarantine protocols are still in order. Now, the pandemic has accelerated the speed at which we are “going digital” and has given new power to many online industries. Even if you are not selling your products online, you must consider digital marketing a plausible scalable engine of growth for your company.
Every business has been affected by the pandemic differently, depending upon the business’ services, target audience, and other factors. Despite the economic downturn, more and more people are searching for products and services online due to social distancing protocol. People around the world had to shelter in place to avoid coming into contact with or spreading the virus. According to experts, this is the best time to embrace the numerous digital marketing channels available today. There is no denying that digital marketing has played a critical role in helping businesses innovate to endure the impacts of the crisis, and here are several reasons why.
Surge of Screen Uptime
With the pandemic’s lockdowns and travel restrictions, it’s no surprise that everything is shifting online. Audiences react very positively to marketing content that is beneficial to their lives and not just an ideology of something that doesn’t matter or has no substance. Based on research, a whopping 16:06 hours a day are now being spent with digital media by the average U.S. adult, up from an already unfathomable 12:24 hours a day pre-pandemic.
In today’s environment, unified channels and customer service are more important than ever, as non-essential businesses closed their doors to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Digital platforms have created new and more effective methods for businesses to reach their consumers. Now that your customers are now more likely to be searching for products online, it is crucial to analyze how you’re able to compete for some of that new business and drive inbound sales.
Building brand and customer retention through digital, mobile, and social strategies are key to that heightened role. Remaining active and relevant will safeguard your brand’s significance and integrity. Embracing a transformation from traditional to digital marketing will help you now and in the long run.
Online Transition of Events and Networking
Trade shows, conferences, and events are the bedrock of corporate branding, networking, and sales. COVID-19 has halted many economic activities short in their tracks. Many highly-anticipated major international events due to take place in 2020 had to be postponed until the next year. On a more positive note, service providers of physical events can now redirect their efforts towards online events. As the pandemic persists, the use of digital platforms will continue to thrive.
Virtual events need not just be a replacement for canceled events; they can become a part of a company’s long-term strategy. It is an increasingly viable option for businesses to supplement their existing conference programs. In connection with this, Facebook Lives, Zoom classes, and other online events can help participants stay informed and be updated on relevant content or news about your business. This recreates the format of a traditional live expo or conference.
For virtual events, the work afterward is a key part of monetizing the event. Companies can and should make use of data analytics and business intelligence. Industries that rely on exhibition centers to promote their products and services don’t need to lament the loss of actual space to do these activities.
The Rise of Social Media Usage Among Users
Social media and virtual meetings, domestically and across the globe, have become the “new normal” as people strive to keep normalcy in their lives amid pandemic restrictions. Needless to say, social media gained importance during and after COVID-19. Entrepreneurs have embraced the digital phenomenon of online shopping even more, leveraging social media to boost traffic, visibility, and sales in the long run.
One of the major advantages of social media is the extent of information that is circulated. As the number of users increased over time, companies, influential brands, even tech enterprises had to produce more and more content to market for the users to consume. Social media marketing does not require much effort, but it has become the perfect go-to place to advertise and promote your ideas, products, or services.
Digital Marketing Is In Demand
The increased global internet usage during this pandemic has provided a great opportunity to boost your online business presence through digital marketing. As mobile internet usage and ad engagement increase, the demand for digital marketing goes along with it. Branding works best long-term, and developing ongoing contingencies to mitigate against loss is the best solution.
Keep in mind, digital marketing is not a quick-fix solution to gain momentum. However, the consumers’ behavior online continues to change. As long as businesses leverage digital marketing in a way that the audience can access information in the easiest way possible, success is achievable. A huge amount of data emerging almost daily from various sources, helps marketers reshape and reassess their activity and budget allocation.
Marketers now have the opportunity to capture more eyeballs by advertising on these popular websites at a lower cost than the pre-corona period.
Key Takeaway
Despite all of these impacts, there are renewed methods for the events industry to continue staying afloat during the new normal. When thinking about how best to respond to COVID-19, marketers should focus on returning to the basics. Adapting to the pandemic with a modified digital strategy, pay attention to what your audience likes and the proper utilization of social media platforms are a few of the most important things you need to focus on.
In these unprecedented times, taking advantage of the shifts in consumers’ behaviors can help you and your business survive and grow at the same time.