Not to state the obvious, but we can all collectively agree that 2020 did not go as planned. In our office, not a single marketing plan we created for clients went unedited. This year brought many challenges, but ultimately forced us to break out of our comfort zone and sharpen our skills.
When looking at what you want your 2021 marketing plan to include, consider using the past year to help shape your goals.
Things to consider:
Social media cannot be your bread and butter.
The year 2020 was cloudy for a multitude of reasons- global pandemic, presidential election, social unrest, and so much more. All of the chaos in the world led many people to take a break from their social media platforms; sort of like an escape from the reality we were living. The problem here is, if your audience is taking a break from social media then they aren’t going to see the content you are pushing out through Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.
Next year, considering diversifying your content to other avenues of advertisement. Try advertising in local publications, an e-newsletter to send to your fans and customers, or blog posts to inform people on different topics within your business.
Your website is your new front door.
During the many-month shutdown due to quarantine, chances are you were forced to shut your business doors to the public. What did you do during that period of time? We hope you took that time to create or perfect your business website! In the days ahead, if you have to close your doors to the public due to illness or quarantines, your website is the perfect place to continue sales.
Keep your audience in the know- be transparent with your customers.
In 2020, everyone had their own slew of struggles to keep under control. Allowing your customers to understand those struggles is so important, because you are only human! Your customers will be able to relate to you more and will be more likely to advocate for your business with those they know.
Think outside of the box. You’ll never have the chance to be successful if you don’t gamble the risk of failure.
“I haven’t failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” -Thomas Edison
In the year ahead, we have the opportunity to start with a blank slate. Everything has changed, so if you needed to make changes within your business, now is the time to take the plunge. Meet with a trusted business advisor (we know a few if you need a recommendation) and make the big moves to set yourself up for success in the years ahead.
Don’t get too far ahead.
None of us know what the year ahead will look like. We are recommending quarter-by-quarter plans instead of full-year plans. Go ahead and set goals for the year, especially as they relate to your overall focus. You can save the long-range planning, however, for a time when the world is in a more stable place.
Get ready for a resurgence.
As vaccines become more readily available and the economy continues to build, be ready for what that can mean for your business. Make sure you have access to the tools, resources, and staff you may need for an uptick in business in the summer and fall. Position your company as ready to help in the year ahead.
Enlist support for your marketing efforts.
If you would like to get a fresh perspective on your marketing plans, please send an email to info@wholeheart.biz. We would love to help you make 2021 your business’s best yet!