How many times have you scrolled through your phone and an ad pops up for something that you were JUST talking about? Or maybe you were thinking about what to make for dinner and BAM! A delicious-looking recipe for fettuccini alfredo pops up in your Facebook feed. That, my friends, is the wonderful world of digital marketing.
By definition, digital marketing is any marketing that uses an electronic device or the internet. Traditional marketing like billboards and newspaper ads still exist, but digital marketing focuses on reaching people where they spend a huge chunk of their time: online. But it’s so much more than just banner ads – here are some other examples of digital marketing that you have likely come across in your daily routine without even realizing it:
Search Engine Optimization (SEO):
Ever Googled "best sushi near me" and clicked on the top/first website listed? That's SEO in action! Businesses optimize their websites to rank higher in search results, making it easier for people to find them.
Social Media Marketing:
Those ads that you see on Facebook or Instagram from your favourite clothing brand or local florist for Valentine’s Day – that’s social media marketing. It's about engaging with audiences on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to build brand awareness and drive traffic.
Content Marketing:
That blog post you read about the best places to visit during March Break on a budget - that's content marketing. It involves creating valuable content (blog posts, articles, videos, infographics) that educates, entertains, or solves problems for your target audience.
Email Marketing:
The email you got from your favorite artist announcing her upcoming tour dates and offering a presale code for tickets? That's email marketing. It's a direct way to connect with subscribers, share updates, and promote offers.
Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising:
Those ads that pop up at the top of your Google search results? They’re PPC ads! Businesses pay for each click on their ad, making it a highly targeted way to reach potential customers.
QR Codes:
Remember scanning that square barcode with your phone at the restaurant to see the menu? That's a QR code, another form of digital marketing! They can be used to direct people to websites, special offers, or even payment pages.
Whether you're a business owner trying to grow your audience or just a consumer trying to navigate the online world, understanding digital marketing helps you make informed decisions. For businesses, it's crucial for reaching customers in today's digital landscape. For consumers, it helps you understand why you're seeing certain ads and how companies are trying to connect with you.
Digital marketing is constantly evolving, and it can be overwhelming at times, but don’t worry! Search Engine People can help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of digital marketing, so you can focus on what you do best: running your business. Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve your digital marketing goals!
About the Author: Preyah Westmaas
