Leveraging digital marketing tools and strategies to future-proof small businesses

Signaling a new dawn for two small business owners who The Drum and Facebook – with the support of two teams of industry contributors in the UK and US – set out to help digitally transform as part of the mission for ‘The Digital Makeover’, the fourth and final episode in the series brings all the key players involved in the project together to reflect on the experience.

For Jim Little of the 100-year-old Caurnie Soaperie the experience has been an enjoyable one, “it’s been enlightening, and the process has opened my eyes – it’s been great!”

Similarly, for Alice Liu of Grand Tea and Imports in Chinatown, New York, the experience has also been positive, with lots of ideas shared to support her family business, “to be able to meet people from the top of their game, we’re really so incredibly lucky to have been a part of this.”

The industry experts share their top tips about how small businesses can look to improve their digital presence and performance – providing lasting, tangible advice for anyone looking to take their business to the next level.  So what are the key takeaways from this season?

Key digital transformation takeaways for small businesses

Stay true to yourself, your company, and your brand: consumers know when a brand is being authentic

• Ensure your value proposition communicates your unique selling point

• Focus on making one improvement at a time – iterate and test!

• Stay consistent with your branding, while keeping digital-first design in mind

Be consistent with your messaging and branding, so consumers will better understand your brand, your values, and purpose

• Use consistent messaging across your products, website, and social accounts

• Create content that will resonate with your audience – this will help improve your SEO

• Treat your products as story-telling elements for your business

• High-quality product photography can boost your e-commerce success

Leverage social media platforms and channels - so consumers know where to engage and interact with your brand

• Implement a connected customer experience to improve brand engagement

• Use social media platforms to build an engaged customer community

• Make the most out of digital advertising tools (e.g. Instagram ads) and e-commerce tools (e.g. Facebook Shops)

• Even small amounts of PR can get you in front of new customers

And finally, make use of resources like Blueprint, a Meta skills and training program that lets people and businesses reach their goals with Facebook, Instagram and Messenger. Such courses offer invaluable e-commerce and digital tools that can help futureproof your small business. To find out more, visit Blueprint for training, certification, and free courses here.