Level up your business’s marketing strategy

Marketing is evolving faster than ever to stay ahead of trends as the world goes digital. Times are challenging for businesses as we all face rising costs due to inflation. Companies need to get creative and find innovative ways to engage loyal brand ambassadors. Here are a few top trends to consider for your business’s marketing strategy.

Be genuine! Consumers appreciate honesty and transparency. More and more, the consumer is asking brands to be authentic and transparent in how they operate, valuing honesty and inclusivity. Humanize your brand by being open and sharing information about anything from the day-to-day life of your employees to your efforts to be environmentally friendly. First and foremost, businesses need to understand their “why.” Once you truly understand your purpose and whom you are trying to reach, it’s easier to determine what to say and where to say it to have the greatest impact.

Social media is a key focus in any comprehensive marketing plan and the center of current marketing trends. Did you know that Millennials represent the largest group of consumers? Baby boomers may have the largest buying power, but Gen Z’s spending power is on the rise, and businesses need to meet consumers where they’re at – online! Businesses must work harder than ever to build trust and brand loyalty online. Even if you think you’re behind, it doesn’t take a lot of time to establish an online presence and gain followers. Short-form video is dominating the internet. TikTok and Reels remain kings of the social landscape and are a great way to get ahead, especially if you’re feeling a little behind. People like to consume content in bite-sized bits, and they love humorous content. Once a product goes viral on the platform, typically it sells out.

Email marketing can be an effective source of communication for any organization, helping to spread your desired message and build ongoing relationships with your customers by keeping them informed. Be sure to have an attention-grabbing subject line. Believe it or not, this can make or break the entire email. Also, keep things simple and device friendly.

Chances are if someone joined your mailing list, they know and appreciate the organization in some way. Stick to one storyline and one key message, and do it in a way that is impactful, compelling, and supports your one clear call to action. A callto-action button allows you to see who is actually opening your emails, track and analyze conversion data, and make improvements to increase your effectiveness and optimize your efforts. Be creative and genuine in your approach.

BY NICOLE GOUCHER Guest Columnist

No matter what industry you are a part of, it’s imperative to get your name out in front of people by meeting them where they are – online! Don’t let fear of the unknown scare you away from trying something that could bring more success to your brand. If you need help getting started in the digital space, check us out at conricpr.com.

Nicole Goucher is the President and CEO at CONRIC pr + marketing, a leading creative agency with offices in Fort Myers and Naples that specializes in branding, digital marketing, public relations, graphic design, and website development. Email info@conricpr.com or call (239) 690-9840 ext. 1001.

What credit score does your business need?

By Tangrid Shunia Guest Columnist

The year 2023 maybe challenging for some business owners since interest rates are up. So are the cost of goods and energy costs. When applying for a business loan or commercial real estate loan, what should the business owner do with his or her personal credit?

First, check your credit with Experian or myFico.com; these two systems are reliable without impacting your credit with a new credit inquiry. The trends for 2023 are higher personal credit scores, recognizing the financial climate this economy is entering into a recession. Consider obtaining your personal credit scores greater than 680, the minimal threshold on a conforming interest rate loan for obtaining exceptional terms on a new home mortgage.

So where should the business owner’s personal credit scores be for 2023? We recommend the following credit scores for upcoming lending restrictions:

Auto Loan: A 680 credit score will allow some incentives, but not comparable to a 700 or better credit score, where the incentives for auto financing become greater.

Business Lending: 680 will get your business application processed for SBA, asset-based lending, or healthcare financing. The more you borrow, the more you are required to acquire that very good credit rating.

Commercial Real Estate Lending: 700 is a great starting point for commercial real estate lending. Even though you are securitizing your loan with commercial real estate, it’s even more favorable to get your credit score at least 725 or above, specifically if you have that niche commercial real estate project, office building, mixed use or multifamily.

Home Lending: Especially, if you are opting into a jumbo home loan, a 700 to 725 is the minimal credit score for a reasonable jumbo loan program. Time to have that clean credit rating and stabilize your lending approval.

Tagrid Shunia, a seasoned fi nancial expert, is the owner of First Pro Capital. She has been assisting business owners with business debt, business credit, alternative business lending and personal credit in SWFL for 16 years. Contact info@fi rstprocapital.com or (239) 260-4602.