As you already know by now, your customers are using social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn in record numbers. So if you are not up and running with a well-managed social marketing program by now, you may want to hurry up, because the "next big thing" – Mobile – is already here and being adopted at a staggering rate.
In fact. "half of all Americans [are] predicted to have a smartphone by the end of the year," according to Google AdWords Account Manager, Martina Agarpakis.
What are customers using their mobile devices for? The web, of course! They are surfing websites, posting to social networks, following Twitter, watching what their friends "Like," purchasing daily deal coupons, texting, and sharing information with other users all over the web – right from their mobile phones, iPads, and tablet devices .
So ask yourself, how is your mobile web experience for your customers? If you do not provide a mobile option for customers, you may already be driving away customers who could otherwise be requesting more info, making purchases, or engaging with you via mobile technology.
A Mobile Presence is Becoming Essential
When is the last time you saw someone without a mobile phone? Most people today carry a mobile phone with them wherever they go, even using it when they are at home. Mobile is a direct connection to your customers, and a highly personal medium that can help build and maintain strong relationships with customers.
Research predictions that by 2013, mobile devices will be the "first-screen" that consumers will use to access the web, so make sure your business is ready for this shift in how customers will find, interact, and do business with you.
How to Get Started with Mobile
There are three important points to keep in mind when planning a mobile strategy for your business:
From social to mobile to email, 78% of consumers today use multiple channels and devices to browse, research, and make purchases online. Make sure that your main business website, e-newsletters, e-campaigns, etc. can all be accessed via mobile devices, as well as from a PC.
Integrate your mobile "assets" (like a mobile-enabled website) into your other marketing materials. For instance, use QR codes on printed brochures to lead customers to your mobile site or to a cool video showcasing your business.
Use mobile technology to improve or enhance the user's experience with your business. If you offer coupons, would your customers appreciate receiving them on their smartphones? How about mobile appointment scheduling? Mobile technologies have opened up an entirely new set of tools and conveniences for customers on the go, so be creative with your thinking.
Consumers today expect instant, anywhere, anytime communication, and they expect businesses to keep up. Providing a mobile web experience gives customers a direct connection to your business, and demonstrates your commitment to meeting their needs and making it easy to do business with you – regardless of the channel, device, or technology they use.