For many businesses, digital marketing is now an essential part of their overall marketing strategy. It starts with an effective website.

Some of the tactics you could use can be found below. Not all are suitable for every business, you need to work out the mix that’s right for you.

Search Engine Optimisation

There are a number of ways you can make sure your pages rank highly in search engine rankings so that more people find your website.

This doesn’t usually generate large amounts of website traffic immediately but increases steadily over time, often with lasting results.

Pay Per Click Marketing

You can create ads that appear when a user searches for a specific phrase. With the correct setup, this can have immediate results.

Facebook

You can setup a business Facebook page and add content to this that will engage and interact with users.

This could be about showing a ‘human face’ to your business, highlighting things like fundraising events your team have done.

Or you might, for example, run exclusive competitions for people who ‘like’ your page. Facebook advertising can be used to target people based on demographics such as where they live, their age and their interests.

Twitter

You can use Twitter to send short messages out to people who have an interest in your business. Done effectively, this can build your brand and reputation and help you to promote offers, products and services.

Email marketing

One of the most effective ways to reach potential and existing customers is through email marketing. Whether you have a database of contacts, or need to purchase data, regular email marketing will allow you to sell more and build your brand in the process.