Archive for October, 2023

How to Monetize Instagram in 2023

Instagram isn’t just a platform where people share photos and videos of their daily lives or their adorable pets. 

In 2023, it’s a digital goldmine, a magnet for businesses, marketers, and influencers seeking to capitalize on its over one billion active monthly users. 

Instagram offers an array of ways to monetize and earn a living right from the comfort of your smartphone. But like any goldmine, you have to know where to dig. 

Are you ready to turn those likes and followers into dollars and cents? 

Let’s get started!

Instagram Shoppable Posts 

Instagram Shoppable Posts are a gamechanger in the world of e-commerce. They are essentially Instagram posts but with an added bonus: you get to sell online through Instagram. 

Here’s how they work: the posts include tags on the products featured in the image or the video.

When users tap these tags, they can view product details such as price, description, and more, right within the app. If interested, users can proceed to purchase the product, turning their interest into an instant purchase within a few taps.

Setting up Instagram Shoppable posts is quite simple. You first need to convert your personal Instagram account to a business account. 

Then, connect Instagram to your Facebook catalog. This can be done either through the Facebook Business Manager or Shopify/BigCommerce. 

With your catalog connected, you can then upload an image or video post, and tag the product much like you would a person. 

Once approved by Instagram, these shoppable posts will be shown to your audience, turning a casual scroll into potential profit.

Instagram Shoppable posts blend seamlessly into viewers’ feeds, providing a convenient and effective way to monetize your Instagram. 

The experience is seamless for viewers, making shopping an organic part of their Instagram browsing experience. 

Instagram’s algorithm even helps by showing your shoppable posts to users who exhibit interest in similar products. 

So, while your followers enjoy your content, they can also shop for your products without ever having to leave the platform. 

Sponsored Posts 

Instagram Sponsored Posts are essentially paid advertisements that allow businesses or individuals to reach a larger and more targeted audience

These posts can appear as photos, videos, stories, or even as a carousel of multiple images or videos. 

To use Instagram Sponsored Posts effectively: 

  • 1. Ensure your profile is set as a business account to get access to Instagram’s advertising tools. 
  • 2. Next, choose a post on your Instagram that you’d like to promote.
  • 3. Hit the “Boost” button which you will see on this post.
  • 4. Now, you will be asked to define your objective; whether it’s more profile visits, website visits, or even direct messages.
  • 5. The next step involves defining your audience. You can let Instagram suggest an audience based on the people that like your Page or have interacted with you, or you can define a custom audience by choosing specific demographics, locations, and interests.
  • 6. Finally, set your budget and duration. This will determine how long your post will be promoted and the number of people you are likely to reach.

Instagram will then review your promotion and it will be live once approved. 

Instagram Sponsored Posts are a great tool to tap into a global audience, reach your target demographics and extend your brand’s presence

In 2023, they provide one of the most lucrative ways to monetize by increasing exposure to potential customers who are likely interested in what you offer. 

With a bit of strategy and a well-crafted message, sponsored posts can significantly boost your sales and engagement.

Affiliate Marketing 

Affiliate marketing is a modern twist on the age-old practice of commission sales. 

In essence, you’re acting as a trusted intermediary for a product or service, earning a cut every time your followers purchase through your referral link. 

How does it work specifically for Instagram? The key element is your profile’s bio.

Primarily, you partner with a brand that aligns with your Instagram aesthetic and audience. Then, you showcase their product in your post or story, tagging the brand and using an affiliate link. By doing so, you direct your followers to the brand’s website. 

The catch? 

Well, the smarter you are about your brand partnership, the better the payoff. 

Always keep it relevant – if you’re an avid hiker and share your outdoor exploits, partner with an outdoor equipment brand. 

Followers are more likely to buy if it aligns with what brought them to your page in the first place. 

The golden rules? 

Keep it authentic, transparent, and make sure you’re following the FTC guidelines for affiliate marketing. 

If you stick to these, the affiliate marketing world can be a lucrative labyrinth to navigate. 

So, begin today; discover your niche, find your brand, and use that Instagram bio as a portal to profits.

Advertising Pages in Stories and Posts

Advertising pages in stories and posts offer a direct monetization approach on Instagram. Here’s how to leverage them to your advantage:

  • 1. Put effort into creating high-quality, engaging, and branded content. Be it stories or posts, the better your content, the more traffic you’ll attract.
  • 2. Understand who’s following you. Tailor your ads to this demographic to maximize engagement.
  • 3. This step is crucial as it opens Instagram’s monetization features like Branded Content Tools.
  • 4. Create ads by promoting your posts directly or use Facebook’s Ads Manager for more control over your ad campaigns.
  • 5. In your Stories ads, incorporate the ‘Swipe Up’ feature to redirect users to your chosen landing page.
  • 6. Regularly evaluate your ad performance. Instagram provides insights to help track your ads’ engagement and effectiveness.
  • 7. Based on your performance metrics, make necessary adjustments to increase your ad’s visibility and engagement. 

Remember, creativity is your greatest tool when utilizing advertising pages in stories and posts. So be bold, be innovative, and be consistent to build a strong brand image that resonates with your audience.

Wrapping Up

There you have it, Instagram is more than just sharing photos and catching up with friends. With the correct strategies or Instagram tools, it can also become a significant income source. 

As you navigate this often overlooked pathway to monetize Instagram in 2023, remember to keep your personal brand at the forefront of each approach. 

Authenticity speaks louder than promotion, after all.

Featured Image by Claudio Schwarz on Unsplash

The post How to Monetize Instagram in 2023 appeared first on noupe.


A Guide to Q4 Ecommerce Marketing Plan

Q4, the most crucial quarter of the year, is here for e-commerce businesses. The upcoming holiday season in Q4 presents boundless ideal opportunities for e-commerce sellers to boost their transactional momentum. Companies of all sizes can capitalize on the holiday season, achieve extraordinary sales targets, and generate a significant portion of revenue. Black Friday is aptly named so because on Friday after Thanksgiving, businesses saw their profits skyrocket (back) after months-long losses (red). According to Google, 50% of the shopping happens during the holiday season. Insights from Forbes Advisor suggest that e-commerce sales in 2023 are expected to grow at a rate of 10.4%, and the global e-commerce market is expected to reach $6.3 trillion by 2023. So, a Q4 e-commerce marketing plan will make or break the fiscal year for businesses!

Here is an effective e-commerce marketing plan for businesses to nail Q4 and end the year on a profitable note!

Have a solid marketing calendar

As the competition is tough in the e-commerce sector, a marketing calendar in place will let businesses strategically target holidays and grab customers. With a well-organized e-commerce marketing calendar, companies can avoid any last-minute struggle and roll out campaign offers at an apt time on various channels. Keeping key dates in mind, e-commerce businesses can get their assets and inventory ready. Q4 has many special days for e-commerce businesses to plan numerous offers and incentives. They include:

  • Halloween (October 31)
  • Black Friday (November 25)
  • Cyber Monday (November 28)
  • Christmas (December 31)
  • Hanukkah (Dec 18-26)
  • Kwanzaa (December 24-31)
  • Free Shipping Day (December 14)

Evaluate your previous Q4 e-commerce marketing plan

Look back to moving forward! Before formulating the present Q4 e-commerce marketing plan, businesses should assess their previous strategies and zero in on methodologies that worked well for them. They can leverage Google Analytics data from last year to infer which products gave them the highest returns, offers, or deals that brought traffic to their website. Based on the insights, businesses can plan their inventory, restock the bestsellers, and decide the product pricing for best results.

Spend wisely on your marketing budget

Businesses should divide their marketing budget across platforms to get their money’s worth. Before opting for any media for their brand, companies should get accurate data and evaluate the best social channel and display platforms that fit best for their product. Based on the budget allocation, e-commerce businesses can decide the duration and type of campaign they can afford. It is recommended that companies follow the 80-20 rule and spend 80% of their marketing budget on prospecting with cold leads and the remaining 20% on re-targeting. As re-targeting efforts are considered cost-effective, marketing to an audience who visited their website in the last 365 days, social media followers, or consumers who purchased products in the previous six months will be profitable for e-commerce businesses.

Run a quick competitor analysis

Observing competitors will help businesses anticipate new trends and comprehend the shifts in the market. Companies can take up competitor analysis by searching online for names of firms offering similar products to understand the type of audience they are targeting and the offers or incentives they are using to lure customers. By assessing competitors’ strong and weak points, e-commerce businesses can devise the right strategy to benefit them. Companies can attract competitor customers by offering them better deals than their competitors are running and bolstering their sales.

Explore multichannel promotional endeavors

E-commerce businesses should never limit their marketing to single channel as customers never stay loyal to a single channel. Insights from Shopify suggest that companies that take the multichannel marketing route witness 190% higher sales than enterprises that stick to the single–channel approach. Many customers visit various channels to check and compare offers or deals businesses offer. Hence, in the best interest, e-commerce businesses should vigorously promote their products on all possible channels to attract maximum customers and boost their sales productivity. It would be beneficial if companies targeted various age groups of customers like baby boomers, Gen X, millennial, and Gen Z across channels, including billboards, flyers, social media, TV ads, telemarketing, direct mail marketing, and more.

Create compelling product videos

Compelling product videos helps e-commerce businesses gain a competitive edge in the marketplace. It allows them to show the consumers what their product is about, which drives traffic to their website and sales. A video that highlights the product’s benefits and features works wonders attracting potential customers and allows businesses to turn cold leads into hot leads.
E-commerce businesses can also utilize Infomercials to showcase their product’s best features entertainingly and draw consumers’ attention.

Leverage a strong content marketing strategy

An efficient content strategy goes a long way in effectively engaging the customers. Cue content marketing helps businesses tell their audience why their product is best and how it will resolve the pain points affecting them. Today’s consumers are inundated with product promotional communication. If e-commerce businesses need to be heard, their content should be hard-hitting; it should cut through the fluff and convey the product’s nitty–gritty benefits and uses. Unique marketing materials that can be shared on various social platforms, like how-to videos and product guides, can increase product awareness and drive organic website traffic, giving the required push for sales.

Opt for email marketing

Email marketing cannot be ignored in the Q4 quarter. Email marketing provides the perfect platform for e-commerce businesses to easily reach their audience and get a head-start to achieve their sales targets during the holiday season in Q4. Insights from mailcharts suggest that companies across industries have a 13% higher send rate than other quarters of the year. E-commerce businesses can use teaser emails to build anticipation, coupon emails to entice consumers who made purchases in Q4 to buy more next year and retain them, and launch stacked promotions to increase sales via emails. With an effective email marketing funnel, businesses can have more lead conversion, highly benefiting e-commerce enterprise’s sales margins.

Consider upselling

Upselling is vital for e-commerce businesses in Q4 as it improves their revenue by 30%. Enterprises should include upselling in their marketing plan, as selling to existing customers is always easier than selling to new customers. E-commerce businesses can display additional add-ons to the product the customer is viewing and persuade them to purchase more. They can also offer lucrative deals to customers, enticing them to buy more. For instance, a customer might not say no to a deal in which they get one blue light block eyewear for 30 $ but two of the same product when bought together, cost 40$. The extra dollar the customers spend here becomes additional revenue for the e-commerce business. Besides fetching good income, upselling also increases inventory turnover for businesses.

Incorporate messenger bots

E-commerce businesses can enhance customer experience through messenger bots and effectively manage the holiday sale rush during Q4. It allows them to simultaneously reach new customers, generate leads, and create an avenue to interact with the consumer. Also, by integrating messenger bots into social media platforms like Facebook, businesses can share ads and showcase products. It enables them to filter out interested buyers and automate certain aspects of the sales cycle, thus streamlining operations.
Businesses can also include technical SEO overhaul, e-commerce PPC advertising, and other methods to drive website traffic and optimize sales capabilities.

Wrapping up

A well-prepared Q4 e-commerce marketing plan is a big step in the right direction for businesses. It will arm them with the much-needed goals and guidance to make the most of this lucrative quarter with confidence. With an effective plan, e-commerce businesses can avoid mistakes that will cost them dear, get the most out of their buck, and be in a better position for success.

Featured image by Sevenatoms

The post A Guide to Q4 Ecommerce Marketing Plan appeared first on noupe.


Unique Corporate Gift Ideas That Will Impress Your Clients and Partners

Corporate gifting is a powerful tool that has gained significant importance in the business world. It involves the practice of giving thoughtful and carefully chosen gifts to employees, clients, partners, or other stakeholders in a professional setting to improve, strengthen, boost, or create a positive business relationship.

Corporate gifting is important for: 

1. Relationship Building: Corporate gifting is an effective means of fostering and strengthening relationships. Whether it’s with clients, employees, suppliers, or business partners, giving thoughtful gifts can create a sense of goodwill and appreciation. This, in turn, can lead to improved cooperation, trust, and loyalty.

2. Expressing Gratitude: Corporate gifting allows organizations to express gratitude and appreciation for the contributions of their stakeholders. It sends a message that their efforts are recognized and valued, which can boost morale and motivation among employees and encourage repeat business from clients.

3. Enhancing Brand Image: Thoughtful corporate gifts can help enhance a company’s brand image. When recipients associate positive experiences and sentiments with a brand, it can lead to increased brand loyalty and positive word-of-mouth marketing.

4. Celebrating Milestones: Corporate gifting can be a way to celebrate important milestones, such as anniversaries, achievements, or successful partnerships. Recognizing these occasions with a meaningful gift can leave a lasting impression and reinforce the significance of these milestones.

Benefits of Corporate Gifting include:

1. Strengthening Business Relationships: Corporate gifting helps build and maintain strong relationships with clients, partners, and employees. This can lead to increased collaboration, trust, and a better working environment.

2. Boosting Employee Morale: Recognizing and rewarding employees through gifts can boost morale, increase job satisfaction, and improve employee retention rates. It shows that the organization values its workforce.

3. Marketing and Branding Opportunities: Corporate gifts often carry the company’s logo or branding, serving as a subtle but effective marketing tool. When recipients use or display these items, they inadvertently promote the company to a wider audience.

4. Differentiation and Competitive Edge: Thoughtful corporate gifting can set a company apart from its competitors. It can be a way to stand out in a crowded marketplace and create a positive impression.

Understanding Your Clients and Partners:

Understanding your clients and partners, researching their preferences and interests, and considering their business needs and values is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it enables you to build trust and rapport by demonstrating that you genuinely care about their individuality and success. This personalized approach fosters stronger, more enduring relationships.

Secondly, by aligning your products, services, and communications with their preferences and values, you increase the likelihood of meeting their specific needs and expectations. This leads to higher customer and partner satisfaction, potentially resulting in increased loyalty and repeat business.

Furthermore, understanding their business needs and values helps you identify opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth. It allows you to tailor your offerings to provide tangible solutions, making you a more valuable and strategic partner.

In today’s competitive landscape, where customer and partner choices abound, this understanding sets you apart and positions you as a trusted ally. Ultimately, it enhances the likelihood of successful, long-term partnerships and contributes to the overall success of your business.

Creative and Personalized Gift Ideas:

Certainly, personalized and creative gifts can leave a lasting impression on clients, partners, and employees. Here are more ideas to consider:

1. Customized Gift Baskets: Create themed gift baskets tailored to individual preferences. For instance, a “Coffee Lover’s Basket” could include gourmet coffee, a personalized mug, and artisanal snacks.

2. Name Engraved Tech Accessories: Items like phone cases, laptop sleeves, or wireless chargers engraved with the recipient’s name or initials add a personal touch and are practical for everyday use.

3. Personalized Books: Consider gifting a book that aligns with the recipient’s interests or career aspirations. Include a handwritten note inside to make it even more special.

4. Customized Apparel: Design custom clothing items such as t-shirts, hoodies, or jackets with the recipient’s name or a witty slogan that reflects their personality.

5. Subscription Services: Gift subscriptions to services like streaming platforms, book clubs, or gourmet food deliveries, based on the recipient’s preferences.

6. Artisanal Food and Beverage: Personalize a selection of gourmet chocolates, wines, or craft beers with custom labels or packaging.

If you don’t know where to find these or any other gifts listed below, we recommend looking at SnackNation’s guide. SnackNation listed 15 companies that offer the best in corporate gifting, and they would know a thing or two about this topic. After all, their own snack box is beloved by major companies like Visa, Apple, and Hulu.

NOTE: the key to successful personalized gifts is genuine thought and consideration. Tailor each gift to the recipient’s unique tastes and preferences, and you’ll create a memorable and cherished gesture of appreciation.

High-Quality and Practical Gifts:

1. Premium Office Accessories or Tech Gadgets:

   – Leather-bound notebooks or portfolios.

   – High-end noise-canceling headphones.

   – Top-tier ergonomic office chairs or standing desks.

   – A smartwatch or fitness tracker for health and productivity.

   – Quality desk lamps with adjustable lighting.

2. Executive-Style Stationery or Desk Organizers:

   – Monogrammed leather desk sets.

   – Luxury fountain pens or designer writing instruments.

   – Handcrafted wooden desk organizers.

   – High-quality, personalized business cards.

   – Customized leather mouse pads.

3. Useful Items for Professional Networking or Travel:

   – A premium leather travel wallet or passport holder.

   – Business card holders made from fine materials.

   – High-quality leather or vegan leather laptop bags.

   – A portable power bank with fast charging capabilities.

   – Noise-canceling travel headphones for long flights.

Gourmet and Luxury Gifts:

1. Artisanal Food and Beverage Selections:

   – A gourmet cheese and charcuterie board.

   – A subscription to a high-end coffee or tea service.

   – Truffle-infused olive oil or other specialty oils.

   – Handcrafted chocolates or truffles.

   – A collection of exotic spices and seasonings.

2. Fine Wines, Spirits, or Gourmet Gift Baskets:

   – A bottle of rare vintage wine or champagne.

   – A whiskey or scotch tasting set with premium selections.

   – A curated gourmet gift basket with a selection of fine cheeses, crackers, and preserves.

   – A personalized wine or whiskey decanter set.

   – A premium cocktail mixing kit with artisanal ingredients.

3. High-End Personalized Gift Sets:

   – Custom-made luxury leather goods like wallets or belts.

   – Monogrammed or engraved crystal glassware.

   – Personalized jewelry made from precious metals.

   – A bespoke suit or tailored clothing.

   – Custom fragrances created by a perfumer to suit their preferences.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Gifts:

1. Environmentally Conscious Products and Packaging:

   – Reusable stainless steel or glass water bottles.

   – Eco-friendly reusable shopping bags made from recycled materials.

   – Solar-powered gadgets or chargers.

   – Sustainable clothing or accessories made from organic or recycled fabrics.

   – Beeswax wraps as an alternative to plastic wrap.

2. Eco-Friendly Office Supplies or Reusable Items:

   – Recycled paper notebooks and stationery.

   – Bamboo or recycled plastic desk organizers.

   – Reusable bamboo or stainless steel straws.

   – Energy-efficient LED desk lamps.

   – Eco-friendly lunch containers and utensil sets.

3. Donations to Charitable Organizations on Behalf of Recipients:

   – Make a donation to a charity or environmental organization that aligns with the recipient’s values and interests.

   – Provide a certificate or acknowledgment of the donation as a gift.

Budget-Friendly Gift Ideas:

1. Thoughtful Gifts That Don’t Break the Bank:

   – Personalized photo albums or framed pictures.

   – A potted plant or succulent.

   – A book by the recipient’s favorite author.

   – Handwritten letters or a heartfelt poem.

   – A mixtape or playlist of favorite songs.

2. DIY or Handmade Items with a Personal Touch:

   – Hand-knit scarves, hats, or mittens.

   – Homemade candles or bath salts.

   – Create custom artwork or crafts.

   – Bake cookies, brownies, or other treats.

   – Compile a scrapbook of memories together.

3. Creative and Cost-Effective Alternatives:

   – Host a movie night or game night at home.

   – Offer to help with chores or tasks for a day.

   – Create a coupon book with special favors or experiences.

   – Plan a picnic or outdoor adventure.

   – Share a digital photo album or slideshow.

Packaging and Presentation:

1. Attention to Detail in Gift Wrapping and Packaging:

   – Use recycled or reusable gift-wrapping materials.

   – Incorporate natural elements like twine, leaves, or pinecones.

   – Wrap gifts in fabric or scarves that can be reused.

   – Choose eco-friendly wrapping paper with plant-based inks.

2. Including Personalized Messages or Notes:

   – Write a heartfelt message or letter to accompany the gift.

   – Share a meaningful quote or inside joke.

   – Express your gratitude and appreciation in words.

3. Enhancing the Overall Presentation for a Wow Factor:

   – Add a small bouquet of fresh flowers.

   – Include a small, thoughtful accessory or token.

   – Arrange the gifts aesthetically in a gift basket or box.

   – Tie a decorative ribbon or bow around the package.

These sustainable, budget-friendly, and creatively presented gifts can be just as meaningful and memorable as more expensive options, showcasing your thoughtfulness and care for the recipient.

Importance of Timing and Delivery:

1. Considerations for Appropriate Timing of Gift-Giving:

   – Timing can greatly impact the effectiveness and thoughtfulness of a gift. Consider giving gifts on special occasions such as birthdays, holidays, or work anniversaries.

   – Timing can also be crucial in personal relationships. For example, giving a sympathy gift promptly after a loss shows care and support.

2. Choosing Reliable Delivery Methods:

   – Select a reputable and dependable delivery service to ensure your gift arrives on time and in good condition.

   – Tracking and providing the recipient with delivery updates can be helpful in managing expectations.

3. Ensuring Gifts Arrive in Excellent Condition:

   – Properly package delicate or fragile items to prevent damage during transit.

   – Include clear instructions for handling and unpacking if necessary.

Etiquette and Professionalism:

1. Understanding Cultural Norms and Customs:

   – Different cultures have unique customs and etiquette related to gift-giving. Research and respect the cultural norms of the recipient to avoid unintended offense.

   – Be aware of taboos or inappropriate gifts in the recipient’s culture.

2. Proper Gift-Giving Etiquette in Business Settings:

   – In business contexts, gifts should be thoughtful but not overly personal or extravagant.

   – Check a company’s policy on gift acceptance, as some organizations have strict rules regarding gifts to employees.

   – Avoid giving gifts that may create conflicts of interest or appear as bribery.

3. Building and Maintaining Professional Relationships:

   – Thoughtful gift-giving can strengthen professional relationships and foster goodwill.

   – Be mindful of the recipient’s preferences and interests to choose an appropriate gift.

   – Handwritten thank-you notes or follow-up messages after gift-giving can further enhance your professional image.

4. Avoiding Gift Expectations:

   – In some situations, it’s best to avoid gifts to prevent any perception of favoritism or obligation.

   – If you receive a gift, reciprocate appropriately and consider the nature of your relationship with the giver.

5. Giving and Receiving Gracefully:

   – When receiving a gift, express genuine gratitude and appreciation, regardless of the gift’s value.

   – When giving a gift, do so with sincerity and without expecting something in return.

In both personal and professional settings, timing, delivery, and etiquette play essential roles in successful gift-giving. Thoughtful consideration of these factors can lead to meaningful exchanges and the building of positive relationships.

Conclusion:

Unique corporate gifts that truly impress clients and partners are those that reflect genuine consideration and appreciation. Whether it’s the sustainability of your gift, the personal touch of a handwritten note, or the perfect timing of your gesture, these elements collectively convey your commitment to fostering meaningful relationships.

Selecting gifts that align with your recipient’s interests, preferences, and cultural norms is key to leaving a lasting impression. The art of gift-giving in the corporate world goes beyond monetary value; it’s about the sentiment, the message, and the goodwill you convey.

Remember, it’s not about the price tag but the thought and effort you invest in selecting, packaging, and delivering your gifts. A well-timed, well-chosen gift can help solidify partnerships, express gratitude, and create a positive image for your company.

So, as you embark on the journey of corporate gift-giving, consider the unique tastes and needs of your clients and partners, adhere to proper etiquette, and embrace the opportunity to strengthen and nurture professional relationships. These thoughtful gestures will undoubtedly make a lasting impression that extends far beyond the immediate exchange. Happy Gifting!!!

The post Unique Corporate Gift Ideas That Will Impress Your Clients and Partners appeared first on noupe.


Mastering Responsive Web Design: Techniques and Best Practices for Cross-Device Compatibility

Need to create a website, landing page, or blog that can deliver a pristine customer experience across a range of devices? 

Look no further than responsive web design, a strategy that focuses on creating a fluid layout to create congruent interfaces for desktop and mobile users.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what responsive design really means, three ways to create it, and two examples of optimal websites with flexible designs. We’ve also included a bonus checklist for you to help you refine your layout before going live.

Ready to learn more?

Let’s get started.

What is responsive website design? 

Coined by Ethan Marcotte, otherwise known as “The Godfather of RWD”, responsive web or website design means creating a website that looks clean, intuitive, and functions well, regardless of the device type it’s viewed on.

According to Ethan, having a “device-agnostic layout” is key. This can be accomplished using flexible images, media queries, and fluid gridsthe three pillars of a responsive design.

In his original article on the subject, Ethan referenced the following quote which perfectly depicts the power of responsive web design (RWD).

“The control which designers know in the print medium, and often desire in the web medium, is simply a function of the limitation of the printed page. We should embrace the fact that the web doesn’t have the same constraints and design for this flexibility. But first, we must accept the ebb and flow of things.” — John Allsopp, A Dao of Web Design

2 examples of optimal websites with cross-device compatibility 

In today’s digital era, a website’s cross-device compatibility has become paramount for delivering a seamless and engaging user experience. 

Ensuring that blog posts, landing pages, and other content have comprehensive navigation and are visually appealing across a variety of devices is crucial for capturing and retaining user attention.

Two notable examples of well-optimized websites include the Hers blog and Clean Origin’s diamond stud-earring collection page. 

Let’s explore how these exemplify the significance of cross-device compatibility.

The Hers blog 

For Hers, a well-optimized blog means that users can easily access insightful information about topics like the effects of Adderall on mental health and other wellness resources from any device. 

Whether on a computer, tablet, or mobile phone, Hers’ content retains a responsive layout without sacrificing design quality. Here’s the desktop version: 

Desktop version of a website for hers.

(Image Source)

And here’s the mobile version:

Mobile version of a website for hers.

(Image Source)

This cross-device compatibility empowers users to educate themselves and make informed decisions regardless of their location or preferred viewing device. What’s more, the smooth user experience provided by the responsive design can help enhance user satisfaction and foster trust in the brand’s expertise and credibility.

Clean Origin’s diamond stud-earring collection page

Clean Origin’s well-optimized landing page for its diamond stud-earring collection offers stunning visuals that are equally captivating on both desktop and mobile screens.

Here’s a peek at how it looks on a desktop:

Desktop version of a website for Clean Origin.

(Image Source)

And this is how it looks on a mobile device:

Clean Origin mobile version of a website.

(Image Source)

This cross-device compatibility ensures that users can enjoy browsing through the exquisite earring designs and easily select their favorite from any location or device. The seamless transition from one device to another facilitates a seamless shopping experience, maximizing customer engagement and increasing the likelihood of conversions.

But the advantages of cross-device compatibility extend beyond user satisfaction. 

Cross-device compatibility can also positively impact search engine rankings, as major search engines prioritize mobile-friendly websites, considering them more relevant and user-oriented.

Websites that cater to various devices can receive higher visibility and reach broader audiences, ultimately leading to increased organic traffic and inspiring business growth.

3 ways to create cross-device compatibility 

Now that you’re clear on the basics, let’s take a look at three ultra-simple ways you can master responsive web design when working on your next design project.

1. Use a grid system

If you’re a coding enthusiast who loves having control over every stage of development, responsive grid systems, like Flexbox Grid, Zimit Framework, or Bootstrap, might just be your thing. 

Grid system example.

(Image Source)

Grid systems provide all of the necessary building blocks you’ll need to create responsive web design, including containers, columns, rows, and classes for organizing and nesting elements. 

With media queries and popular breakpoints, these systems smoothly adapt to different screen sizes.

When it comes to responsive grid systems, there’s a wide variety to choose from. Some are simple and straightforward, while others are more comprehensive and feature-rich. Jot down your top priorities before shopping for grid system software.

2. Use a responsive website builder

If you’re looking for an easy and flexible way to create a responsive website, website builders have got you covered! 

Whether you’re a tech guru or a beginner, these user-friendly platforms provide features you can use to build your website without needing to touch a single line of code. Features may include browser-based drag-and-drop editors, advanced customization options, and hundreds of stylish blocks.

Grid system example.

(Image Source)

Some responsive website builders focus on responsive behavior, while others prioritize mobile-friendliness, offering tools to optimize your site for different devices.

Hiring React JS developers with expertise in building responsive web applications can also be a great option to ensure your website meets your specific requirements.

If you’re interested in using a responsive website builder, check out options like SpringBuilder, Designmodo Startup, and Visual Composer.

3. Use a CMS

Another simple way to create cross-device compatibility is by using a Content Management System (CMS) like WordPress or Shopify. Hint: If you need an easy way to create a responsive blog or ecommerce store, this option may be your best bet! 

These user-friendly platforms are designed to cater to both tech-savvy individuals and those new to web development

Although CMS platforms may not initially provide responsive behavior, the good news is that many theme developers have recognized the importance of mobile optimization. With this in mind, they’ve created a plethora of responsive templates that seamlessly adapt to different screen sizes, guaranteeing a smooth browsing experience on mobile and desktop devices.

Example of Shopify templates.

(Image Source)

Whichever method you choose, don’t go live until testing your website on a variety of devices. Head to the checklist in the next section for additional support.

Cross-device compatibility checklist

Here’s the bonus checklist we promised you. ??

Before going live, make sure your new web page can pass the following cross-device compatibility checklist: 

Does my website, landing page, or blog:

  • uncheckedFeel and look intuitive on larger screens and smaller screens?
  • uncheckedHave plenty of white space to decrease overwhelm and promote readability? 
  • uncheckedLook beautiful and professional on mobile and desktop browsers?
  • uncheckedFunction correctly across desktop and mobile versions? 
  • uncheckedHave responsive images and correct image sizes?

Wrap up 

And there you have it. 

Today we discussed what responsive web design is, some simple techniques to help you master it, and two examples of optimal websites with cross-device compatibility. 

If you’re ready to get started on your next project, don’t forget to bookmark this article and share it with your web development team. 

And if you’re looking for even more insightful advice you can apply to your business, check out our online magazine for additional guides and resources.

Here’s to your success!

Featured image by Domenico Loia on Unsplash

The post Mastering Responsive Web Design: Techniques and Best Practices for Cross-Device Compatibility appeared first on noupe.


5 Top Benefits of Conversational Marketing for Your Business

Sending targeted marketing messages is a great way to build brand awareness, boost sales, and generate leads. However, this one-way interaction may not be enough to reach customers wanting to engage with their favorite brands.

Nearly 70% of customers prefer to use conversational marketing chatbots because of how quickly they can initiate a conversation with a business on their own time.

A conversational marketing strategy can help you provide customers with the immediacy they crave.

What Is Conversational Marketing? 

Conversational marketing is just what the name suggests. It’s a form of marketing that focuses on interacting with potential customers through two-way communications (either in real-time conversations or client-time conversations) — more on that in a bit.  

If you’ve ever shopped online, there’s a strong chance that you’ve engaged in conversational marketing before. 

You might see a chat icon with a message pop-up when you visit a website. It might say something like “Hi, welcome to….How can I help you today?” or something more specific that ties to that product or service offering.

For example, Carmax features a chatbot that caters to a wide range of car buyer needs, from setting appointments to finding more information about financing.

Carmax chatbot
Image Source

This scenario is conversational marketing in action. The goal is to engage website visitors and convert them into leads through conversation, often through automation or artificial intelligence tools. 

Customers’ actions will trigger a chatbot, like when they spend a lot of time looking at a product page. The chatbot may ask if the customer wants to learn more about the product. 

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Conversational marketing can take many other forms. Examples include lead-generation chatbots (like the example above), social media chatbots, live chat, voice assistants, and email. 

How Conversational Marketing Works

In an ideal conversational marketing strategy, conversation happens in “customer time.” In other words, conversations take place whenever the customer wants. 

It doesn’t have to be in real-time. It can be whatever time is most convenient for the customer. So, conversational marketing should focus on the needs of the customer. 

Conversational marketing meets customers where they are. So, for example, imagine that your customer base spends a lot of time on Facebook. 

It may be best to set up a chatbot within Facebook Messenger to answer questions and boost the chances of converting these customers. Why?

Because your customers already use Facebook multiple times per week, it’d be much easier for them to send a message on the app than perform a Google search for your company’s number or email address. 

For example, if a potential customer is looking for linen suits for men, and there’s an option to message the brand directly in the app about sizing and turnaround times, it creates a seamless shopping experience.

Example of StudioSuits Facebook Messanger chat.
Image Source

And if there’s an indicator that the brand responds quickly (in this case, instantly), then it’s an even better solution. A customer can get real-time answers for all of their shopping-related questions. The result? Lower bounce rates. And higher conversions. What’s not to love?

Keep in mind that your conversational marketing efforts should be easily scalable. The last thing you want is for your business to get left behind because you don’t have the staffing or budget to serve your customers. Enter chatbots. 

Bots are valuable in a marketing strategy because they already have answers prepared for the most common questions based on data that already exists. That takes the burden off your customer support team. And chatbots can work 24/7 a day (no beauty rest required).

That’s not to say that chatbots should replace humans. But bots are useful when a customer needs a quick answer to a simple question. If the bot can’t help with a particular inquiry, it should provide quick access to a live rep.

With a detailed sales playbook in hand, your sales reps can follow all the correct steps during the sales process to overcome common sales objections and close the deal. Think of it as a foolproof guide to engaging with customers throughout the sales cycle.

AI-powered chatbots and the human touch are a dynamic duo for turning prospects into customers. Align them together and watch your sales soar.  

Industries Using Conversational Marketing

There are a few industries that are frontrunners for harnessing the power of conversational marketing. So, if you need inspiration, take a peek at these two examples.  

Healthcare

Healthcare is a major industry that requires human interaction. A healthcare brand like Henry Meds can benefit from using conversational marketing to help patients quickly get the information they need about Henry Meds’ products, services, or health-related concerns. 

But that’s not all. Through conversational marketing, Henry Meds can provide personalized treatment plans in three simple steps.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a simple online form with your health history.
  2. Schedule a telehealth consultation at your convenience.
  3. Receive your medication delivered to your doorstep.
Telehealth example of conversational marketing.
Image Source

Henry Meds adds conversation and convenience to a traditionally cumbersome process. It’s one of the many drivers behind telehealth’s impressive growth rates over the past few years. 

Local Businesses

Businesses that provide local services can also leverage conversational marketing to engage with their customers and reduce friction throughout the buying process. 

For example, Watermill Flowers, a florist in Fort Lauderdale, uses real-time order assistance to guide customers through the ordering process, help them choose the right floral arrangements, and address any concerns.

Watermill Flowers uses a chatbot on Facebook Messenger to answer customer questions and take orders.

Watermill Flowers Facebook Messenger chatbot
Image Source

This local business showcases another great example of where instant responses can boost consumer trust in a brand. Why? Customers can get their questions answered (at their beck and call) before deciding on a purchase.

And if that purchase doesn’t happen with your brand, they’ll run into the open arms of the next local business that appears on the search engine results page (SERP). 

5 Benefits of Conversational Marketing

1. Get to Know Your Customers

When you set up a chatbot, it automatically collects key information about your site visitors. 

During a conversation, your buyer’s responses can give you valuable insights into:

  • Why did they come to your site
  • Their biggest pain points
  • What product features do they care about

By the end of the conversation, you’ll qualify them and understand whether a lead fits your ideal customer profile.

2. Create a Positive Customer Experience

Because conversational marketing helps you learn more about your customers’ needs and pain points, you can create personalized experiences.

For example, you can adjust your conversations and recommend certain products or services based on customer interests and where they fall in the customer journey.

3. Build Customer Loyalty

Conversational marketing allows you to respond quickly to customer support issues. Or help customers make a purchase decision by providing key information. 

These gestures create a positive feeling, build trust, and increase customer loyalty. Customers are more likely to make a purchase with a brand they trust and keep coming back for a positive buying experience, boosting your conversation rates.

4. Create a More Human Touch 

Today’s customers want to feel connected to the brands they interact with. 

So, use customer data wisely to tailor conversations. Address users by name, remember past interactions, and offer relevant recommendations.

Make chatbots feel more human by giving them names, personalities, and avatars. Program them to understand context and emotions, and occasionally use informal language or emojis, where appropriate.

And if a chatbot can’t answer a query, ensure a smooth transition to a human representative.

5. Provide Real-time Feedback and Answers

Customers usually browse through a product catalog or list of services before they make a buying decision.

If they need further information, they may engage with someone from the sales team or a customer service rep over the phone. But this often requires waiting, which can hurt sales in the age of instant gratification. 

No one wants to spend minutes or hours waiting on hold for a customer service rep to answer their call. Or wait days for an email response. That’s the quickest way to frustrate customers and lose them to a competitor that provides faster support.

Chatbots can help you give your customers the immediacy they’re looking for when it comes to answering their questions or problems.

Plus, customers may prefer to interact with a chatbot over an actual human, especially if they just need a quick answer to a question. For instance, Albert, a personal finance and mobile banking app, uses a chatbot to answer financial questions on the spot. 

Albert Genius chatbot
Image Source

In short, a chatbot can meet your customer’s needs by giving customers answers in real-time or when they need them most. 

Move More Leads Down the Sales Funnel With Conversational Marketing

Conversational marketing is about understanding and meeting our customers in their comfort zone. It’s like having a genuine chat with a friend, offering assistance right when they need it. 

This strategic approach builds trust and guides potential customers smoothly through the sales journey.

So, as you plan your next marketing move, consider integrating conversational tactics. It’s time to truly connect with your audience. Your customers will be grateful, and your profits will show it.

Featured image by Freepik

The post 5 Top Benefits of Conversational Marketing for Your Business appeared first on noupe.


  •   
  • Copyright © 1996-2010 BlogmyQuery - BMQ. All rights reserved.
    iDream theme by Templates Next | Powered by WordPress