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  • The Complete Guide to Retargeting Advertising

    In today’s digital landscape, where competition for consumers’ attention is fierce, retargeting advertising has emerged as a powerful tool for businesses seeking to maximize their marketing efforts. By strategically targeting individuals who have already shown interest in their products or services, businesses can effectively nurture leads and increase their chances of conversion. But what exactly is retargeting advertising, and how can you use it to reach and convert your audience like a pro?

    In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of retargeting advertising, exploring its benefits, best practices, and strategies for success. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer looking to optimize your retargeting campaigns or a newcomer eager to tap into the potential of this advertising technique, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to unlock the full potential of retargeting advertising. Get ready to take your marketing game to new heights and turn your audience into loyal customers.

    What is Retargeting Advertising?

    Retargeting advertising, also known as remarketing, is a marketing technique that allows businesses to display targeted ads to users who have previously visited their website or interacted with their brand in some way. It works by placing a small piece of code, called a pixel, on the website, which then tracks the user’s behavior and enables the delivery of personalized ads across various platforms.

    Retargeting advertising allows businesses to stay top-of-mind with potential customers and re-engage them, even after they have left your website. It is based on the principle that people are more likely to convert when they have already expressed interest in a product or service.

    Benefits of Retargeting Advertising

    Retargeting advertising offers numerous benefits for businesses looking to enhance their marketing efforts. Here are some key advantages:

    1. Increased conversion rates: By targeting users who have already shown interest in your brand, retargeting advertising significantly increases the likelihood of conversion. It keeps your brand top-of-mind and encourages potential customers to complete their purchase or take the desired action.

    2. Cost-effective: Compared to other marketing techniques, retargeting advertising can be a cost-effective solution. Since you are targeting users who are already familiar with your brand, you can allocate your budget more efficiently and focus on those who are more likely to convert.

    3. Enhanced brand awareness: Retargeting ads help reinforce brand awareness and build trust with potential customers. By consistently displaying your ads across different platforms, you can establish a strong presence and increase brand recall.

    4. Increased customer lifetime value: Retargeting advertising can also contribute to increasing the lifetime value of your customers. By re-engaging existing customers with relevant offers and incentives, you can encourage repeat purchases and foster long-term loyalty.

    5. Customizable targeting options: Retargeting platforms offer a wide range of targeting options, allowing you to tailor your ads based on specific user behaviors, demographics, and interests. This level of customization ensures that your ads are highly relevant and engaging.

    How Retargeting Advertising Works

    Retargeting advertising works by utilizing cookies and pixels to track user behavior and deliver personalized ads. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

    1. A user visits your website: When a user visits your website, a retargeting pixel is activated, placing a cookie in their browser.

    2. The user leaves your website: If the user leaves your website without completing a desired action, such as making a purchase, the retargeting pixel tracks their behavior and stores it in a database.

    3. Displaying retargeting ads: After the user leaves your website, they will start seeing your retargeting ads as they browse other websites or social media platforms. These ads are specifically tailored based on their previous interactions with your brand.

    4. Encouraging conversion: The goal of retargeting advertising is to re-engage users and encourage them to return to your website to complete the desired action. This can be achieved by offering incentives, personalized recommendations, or reminding them of products they have shown interest in.

    By utilizing this process, businesses can effectively reach and convert potential customers who have already shown interest in their brand, increasing the chances of conversion and maximizing their marketing efforts.

    Retargeting Advertising Statistics

    Retargeting advertising has proven to be a powerful marketing tool, with statistics showcasing its effectiveness. Here are some key retargeting advertising statistics:

    According to a study by AdRoll, retargeting ads can increase click-through rates by up to 10 times compared to regular display ads.

    The same study found that retargeting ads can result in a 147% increase in conversion rates.

    Research by Criteo revealed that retargeting can lead to a 726% increase in site visitation for users who have already shown interest in a product or service.

    Data from Google shows that retargeting ads can increase brand searches by 1,000%, indicating a significant impact on brand recall and recognition.

    These statistics highlight the potential of retargeting advertising to drive impressive results and elevate your marketing efforts.

    Setting up a Retargeting Advertising Campaign

    To effectively harness the power of retargeting advertising, it’s essential to set up a well-planned and targeted campaign. Here are the key steps to follow:

    1. Define your goals: Start by clearly defining the objectives of your retargeting campaign. Whether it’s increasing sales, boosting brand awareness, or encouraging sign-ups, having specific goals will guide your strategy.

    2. Identify your target audience: Determine who your target audience is and create specific audience segments based on their behavior, demographics, or interests. This will allow you to deliver personalized ads that resonate with each segment.

    3. Choose the right retargeting platforms: There are various retargeting platforms available, each with its strengths and targeting options. Research and select the platforms that align with your campaign goals and target audience.

    4. Implement the retargeting pixel: Install the retargeting pixel on your website to start tracking user behavior. Ensure that the pixel is properly placed and functional across all relevant pages.

    Even if you’re not ready to start retargeting ads yet, setting up your pixel sooner will mean you’ll already a sizable amount of retargeting data when you do start. This additional data can help Facebook or another retargeting platform show your ad to more relevant users quicker.

    5. Set up campaign parameters: Define the parameters of your retargeting campaign, such as ad frequency, duration, and budget. These parameters will determine how often your ads are displayed and how much you are willing to invest.

    6. Create compelling retargeting ads: Design visually appealing and persuasive ads that resonate with your target audience. Use engaging copy, high-quality images, and clear calls-to-action to encourage users to take the desired action.

    7. Test and optimize: Regularly monitor and analyze the performance of your retargeting campaign. Test different ad variations, targeting strategies, and landing pages to optimize your results and maximize your return on investment.

    By following these steps, you can set up a robust retargeting campaign that effectively reaches and converts your target audience.

    Choosing the Right Retargeting Platforms

    When it comes to retargeting advertising, choosing the right platforms is crucial for success. Here are some popular retargeting platforms to consider:

    1. Google Ads: Google Ads offers powerful retargeting capabilities through its Display Network. It allows you to create custom audiences based on user behavior, demographics, and interests, and display your ads across a vast network of websites and apps.

    2. Facebook Ads: Facebook ads provide highly targeted retargeting options through its Custom Audiences feature. You can retarget users who have interacted with your Facebook page, visited your website, or performed specific actions on your page.

    3. AdRoll: AdRoll is a comprehensive retargeting platform that offers advanced targeting options, dynamic ad creation, and cross-device retargeting. It integrates with various ad networks, making it easy to reach your audience across multiple channels.

    4. Criteo: Criteo is a popular retargeting platform that specializes in personalized product recommendations. It utilizes artificial intelligence to deliver personalized ads based on user behavior and purchase history.

    When selecting retargeting platforms, consider factors such as audience reach, targeting capabilities, ease of use, and budget allocation. It’s also beneficial to test different platforms to identify which ones yield the best results for your specific campaign objectives.

    Creating Compelling Retargeting Ads

    To effectively engage and convert your target audience through retargeting advertising, it’s essential to create compelling ads that grab attention and drive action. Here are some key tips for creating compelling retargeting ads:

    1. Use personalized messaging: Tailor your ad copy to each specific audience segment. Address their pain points, highlight the benefits of your product or service, and use language that resonates with their needs and preferences.

    2. Utilize eye-catching visuals: Use high-quality images or videos that grab attention and evoke emotion. Visual content can significantly impact user engagement and increase the chances of conversion.

    3. Include clear calls-to-action: Clearly communicate the desired action you want users to take, such as “Shop Now,” “Sign Up,” or “Learn More.” Make your calls-to-action prominent and easily clickable.

    4. Offer incentives: Provide users with a compelling reason to take action by offering incentives, such as discounts, free shipping, or exclusive content. Incentives can create a sense of urgency and increase the likelihood of conversion.

    5. Test ad variations: Experiment with different ad variations to identify what resonates best with your target audience. Test different headlines, images, calls-to-action, and ad formats to optimize your results.

    Remember, retargeting ads should be relevant, engaging, and provide value to the user. By following these tips, you can create compelling retargeting ads that effectively drive conversions.

    Tracking and Measuring the Success of Your Retargeting Campaign

    Tracking and measuring the success of your retargeting campaign is crucial for optimization and determining its overall effectiveness. Here are some key metrics to monitor:

    1. Click-through rate (CTR): The CTR measures the percentage of users who clicked on your retargeting ads. A higher CTR indicates that your ads are engaging and capturing users’ attention.

    2. Conversion rate: The conversion rate measures the percentage of users who completed the desired action, such as making a purchase or signing up. Tracking this metric helps you assess the success of your retargeting campaign in terms of actual conversions.

    3. Cost per conversion: The cost per conversion calculates the average amount you spent to acquire each conversion. This metric helps you evaluate the efficiency of your retargeting campaign and optimize your budget allocation.

    4. Return on ad spend (ROAS): The ROAS measures the revenue generated for every dollar spent on your retargeting campaign. This metric provides insights into the overall profitability of your campaign.

    Utilize the tracking and reporting features provided by the retargeting platforms to monitor these metrics and gain a comprehensive understanding of your campaign’s performance. Regularly analyze the data and make data-driven decisions to optimize your retargeting efforts.

    Advanced Retargeting Strategies and Techniques

    Once you have mastered the basics of retargeting advertising, you can explore advanced strategies and techniques to further enhance your campaign’s effectiveness. Here are some advanced retargeting strategies to consider:

    1. Dynamic retargeting: Dynamic retargeting allows you to display personalized ads that showcase specific products or services that users have shown interest in. This highly tailored approach can significantly increase conversion rates.

    2. Cross-device retargeting: With the increasing use of multiple devices, cross-device retargeting ensures that your ads reach users across different platforms, such as desktops, smartphones, and tablets. This helps maintain a consistent brand presence and maximizes reach.

    3. Sequential retargeting: Sequential retargeting involves displaying a series of ads in a specific order to guide users through the sales funnel. By strategically sequencing your ads, you can nurture leads and increase the chances of conversion.

    4. Customer segmentation: Further segment your audience based on specific criteria, such as purchase history, engagement level, or lifetime value. This allows you to deliver highly personalized ads that cater to each segment’s unique needs and preferences.

    By implementing these advanced strategies, you can take your retargeting campaigns to the next level and achieve even greater results.

    Common Retargeting Advertising Mistakes to Avoid

    While retargeting advertising can be highly effective, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can hinder your campaign’s success. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

    1. Overexposure: Bombarding users with excessive retargeting ads can lead to ad fatigue and annoyance. Be mindful of ad frequency and ensure that your ads are displayed at an appropriate level to maintain user engagement.

    2. Lack of ad variety: Displaying the same retargeting ad repeatedly can become monotonous and reduce its impact. Create a variety of ad variations to keep your campaign fresh and engaging.

    3. Neglecting mobile optimization: With the increasing use of mobile devices, it’s crucial to optimize your retargeting ads for mobile platforms. Ensure that your ads are mobile-friendly and provide a seamless user experience.

    4. Failing to segment your audience: A one-size-fits-all approach to retargeting advertising may not yield optimal results. Take advantage of audience segmentation to deliver personalized ads that resonate with each specific segment.

    5. Neglecting post-conversion retargeting: Retargeting shouldn’t stop after a user converts. Implement post-conversion retargeting to re-engage customers and encourage repeat purchases or other desired actions.

    By avoiding these common mistakes, you can maximize the effectiveness of your retargeting campaigns and achieve better results.

    Retargeting Advertising Tools and Resources

    To help you excel in retargeting advertising, here are some valuable tools and resources to explore:

    1. Google Analytics: Google Analytics provides valuable insights into user behavior, conversion tracking, and audience segmentation. It offers powerful tools to optimize your retargeting campaigns.

    2. Facebook Business Manager: Facebook Business Manager provides a comprehensive suite of tools for managing your retargeting campaigns on Facebook and Instagram. It offers advanced targeting options and robust reporting capabilities.

    3. AdRoll: AdRoll is a leading retargeting platform that offers a range of tools and resources to optimize your retargeting campaigns. It provides advanced targeting options, dynamic ad creation, and detailed reporting.

    4. Criteo: Criteo offers personalized retargeting solutions and valuable resources to optimize your campaigns. They provide insights, best practices, and case studies to help you achieve better results.

    Additionally, industry blogs, webinars, and forums focused on digital marketing and retargeting advertising can provide valuable insights and strategies to enhance your campaigns.

    Conclusion

    Retargeting advertising is a powerful tool that allows businesses to reach and convert their target audience effectively. By strategically targeting individuals who have already shown interest in their products or services, businesses can nurture leads and increase their chances of conversion.

    Through this comprehensive guide, you have learned what retargeting advertising is, its benefits, best practices, and strategies for success. Armed with this knowledge and the tools and resources available, you can unlock the full potential of retargeting advertising and take your marketing game to new heights. Get ready to reach and convert your audience like a pro and turn them into loyal customers.

    Overwhelmed by the thought of retargeting advertising? No worries. That’s one of our specialties. Give us a call at (318) 519-6230 or send us a message to get the conversation started about your next project.

  • From Book Launch to Bestseller: A Comprehensive Marketing Plan for Authors

    For many aspiring authors, the journey from manuscript to bestseller can seem like an insurmountable task. Writing a book is only half the battle; the other half is marketing it effectively to reach a wider audience.

    That’s where a comprehensive marketing plan for authors comes in. A well-crafted plan can help authors successfully launch and promote their book, generate buzz, and ultimately achieve bestseller status.

    In this article, we’ll explore the key components of a successful marketing plan for authors, including social media, email marketing, book reviews, and more. So whether you’re a first-time author or a seasoned pro, buckle up and get ready to learn how to take your book from launch to bestseller status.

    Understanding the Book Market

    Before diving into the various marketing strategies, it’s important to have a solid understanding of the book market. Knowing your target audience, popular genres, and current trends can help you tailor your marketing efforts and increase your chances of success.

    One of the most important things you can do is research your target audience. Who are they? What ages, genders, and interests do they have? Understanding your audience can help you create targeted marketing campaigns that resonate with them. Additionally, it’s important to research popular genres and current trends. This can help you determine where your book fits in the market and how to position it for success.

    Another key component of market research is analyzing your competition. Who are the top authors in your genre? What marketing strategies have they used to achieve success? Analyzing your competition can help you identify gaps in the market and differentiate yourself from others.

    One of the best methods for researching competitors is the Facebook Ads transparency feature. Start by following your favorite, high profile publishers, including Amazon Publishing, on Facebook. Pay special attention to their ads and when you see a book advertised that is the same genre and target audience as yours, tap the three dots and choose “why am I seeing this ad.”

    This simple method can give you a plethora of information and drastically reduce the time it takes to get started.

    Pre-Book Launch Marketing Plan for Authors

    One mistake many authors make is waiting until their book is published to start marketing. In reality, the pre-launch period is just as important as post-launch. This is when you can start building buzz, generating excitement, and growing your audience.

    One effective pre-launch strategy is to create a launch team. This is a group of dedicated readers who are willing to read and review your book before it’s released. Launch team members can help spread the word on social media, leave reviews, and provide valuable feedback to improve your book.

    Another pre-launch strategy is to offer exclusive content to your email subscribers. This can include sneak peeks of your book, behind-the-scenes content, and special promotions. By offering exclusive content, you can incentivize readers to sign up for your email list and build a dedicated audience.

    Email marketing platforms like Mailerlite offer a simple, easy-to-use interface that can create automated, beautiful emails for potential customers as well as your launch team. Communicating effectively with those who support you most from the beginning can pay dividends, particularly in the beginning.

    Finally, consider creating a book trailer or teaser to generate excitement for your book. This can be shared on social media, your website, and other online platforms to build buzz and get readers excited for your launch.

    Creating a Buzz on Social Media

    Social media is one of the most powerful marketing tools for authors. With billions of users worldwide, social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram offer a massive audience to promote your book to. However, it’s important to use these platforms strategically to maximize your reach.

    One effective social media strategy is to post engaging content that resonates with your audience. This can include book quotes, behind-the-scenes photos, and updates on your writing process. By posting content that your audience enjoys, you can grow your following and build a dedicated fan base.

    Another effective strategy is to run targeted ads on social media platforms. By targeting your ads to specific demographics and interests, you can reach readers who are most likely to be interested in your book. This is where that Facebook Ad transparency data can come in handy! Additionally, consider partnering with influencers in your niche to reach a wider audience and increase your book’s visibility.

    Utilizing Book Reviewers and Influencers

    Book reviews are essential for building credibility and generating buzz for your book. However, getting reviews can be a challenge, especially for first-time authors. One effective strategy is to reach out to book bloggers and reviewers in your genre. Many of these reviewers have dedicated followings and can help get your book in front of a wider audience. Check and see if your local publications have dedicated book reviewers or try reaching out to the Arts reporter at each publication to discuss sharing your story as well.

    Do not buy or swap reviews. Reviews should be authentic. This is against Amazon and many other platform’s policies. It can result in a complete ban of your account.

    Another effective strategy is to partner with influencers in your niche. This can include authors, bloggers, and social media personalities who have a large following for your respective genre. By partnering with influencers, you can tap into their audience and reach readers who are most likely to be interested in your book.

    Book Launch Strategies

    The book launch period is a critical time for authors. This is when you can generate the most buzz and make the biggest impact. It is often the most important time for the ranking algorithm on bookselling sites as well. To make the most of your book launch, consider the following strategies:

    Host a launch event: This can be a virtual or in-person event where you can read from your book, answer questions, and interact with your audience. Consider going live at the event on Facebook and similar platforms to allow those who can’t attend in person to experience the buzz and excitement. It’s also a great way to celebrate with your launch team and thank them for their commitments!

    Marketing Plan for Authors

    Offer special promotions: Consider offering discounts or special promotions to incentivize readers to purchase your book during the launch period.

    Many distributors allow you to run a discount or promotion right from their platform. While it may lower your royalties initially, a lower price point can increase sales and your rankings in the algorithm, leading to more more long-term success. Experiment with a $0.99 cent ebook sale or a discounted price during presale.

    Get media coverage: Send a press release to local media outlets and book bloggers to try to get coverage for your book. This can help generate buzz and increase visibility. Keep in mind that some thought needs to go into your pitch.

    Most often, just publishing a book isn’t newsworthy. Find an angle and story about your recently published work that is compelling. If your book is in a certain niche, research who the specific reporter is for your niche and send directly to them rather than a generic news@ email address.

    Offer presale. Many sites, such as Amazon, count pre-sold books as part of the first week’s total. Offering presale 1-2 weeks before launch is a great way to give an initial boost to your book’s rankings and set it up for future success.

    Post-Launch Marketing Plan for Authors

    After your book is launched, it’s important to continue marketing to maintain momentum and keep sales steady. Here are some effective post-launch marketing strategies:

    Offer giveaways: Consider offering giveaways or contests to keep readers engaged and interested in your book.

    Continue social media engagement: Keep posting engaging content on social media to keep your audience interested and grow your following.

    Host book tours and events: Consider hosting book tours or events to keep your book in the spotlight and generate buzz.

    Run targeted ads. Targeted ads, even with a minimal budget, help maintain interest and awareness for your book. Start with a smaller budget and run tests with different audiences to see which resonates best. It will take a little testing, but as you see what works best you can then scale your ad budget, while maintaining a similar return on the amount you spend.

    The Importance of Book Tours and Events

    Book tours and events are essential for building buzz and generating excitement for your book. This can include virtual events like webinars, podcasts, and online readings, as well as in-person events like book signings and readings.

    There are several services as well as Facebook Groups dedicated to connecting podcast hosts with potential guests. Find groups and explore podcasts in your niche. Create a list to reach out to. It’s important to do the research and find podcasts where your story is relevant. If your story doesn’t align with the host’s niche, you’re wasting your time and theirs. The audience simply won’t engage, which isn’t helpful for either of you.

    Another effective strategy is to partner with local bookstores and libraries to host events. This can help you reach a wider audience and generate buzz in your local community. Libraries often have their own public relations staff that will share and promote your event to the local media as well. Additionally, consider partnering with other authors in your genre to host joint events and cross-promote each other’s books.

    Paid Advertising Options

    While organic marketing strategies like social media and email marketing can be effective, sometimes it’s necessary to invest in paid advertising to reach a wider audience. Here are some effective paid advertising options for authors:

    Amazon ads: Amazon offers a range of advertising options for authors, including sponsored product ads and sponsored brand ads. For beginners, it’s suggested you start with sponsored products ads.

    Facebook ads: Facebook’s targeted advertising options can help you reach readers who are most likely to be interested in your book. Utilize Facebook’s A/B testing options to determine which ads resonate with your audience and which audiences perform best for your book.

    Bookbub ads: Bookbub offers a range of advertising options for authors, including featured deals and new release alerts. Bookhub’s dedicated reading audience is a great place to share your book with potential readers.

    Google ads: Google gives you the opportunity to target potential readers in your niche as they search for a similar book. This is huge! They’re actively looking to buy when they see your ad. Plus, you only pay for Google ads when you receive clicks. Keep in mind that a click doesn’t necessarily equal a sale. However, the ability to showcase your book to a targeted group looking to buy similar products is a great paid advertising investment option.

    Strategies for Maintaining Book Sales

    Maintaining steady book sales is essential for achieving bestseller status. Here are some effective strategies for maintaining sales:

    Offer special promotions: Consider offering discounts or special promotions to incentivize readers to purchase your book.

    Keep engaging on social media: Continue posting engaging content on social media to keep your audience interested and grow your following.

    Offer exclusive content: Consider offering exclusive content to your email subscribers to keep them engaged and interested in your book.

    Conclusion

    Marketing a book can be a daunting task, but with a well-crafted plan, it’s possible to achieve bestseller status. By understanding the book market, utilizing social media and influencers, and investing in paid advertising when necessary, authors can successfully launch and promote their book, generate buzz, and achieve the success they deserve. So, if you’re an aspiring author, start crafting your marketing plan today and get ready to take the literary world by storm.

    If you’d like to utilize Savage Creative Solution’s team, we’d love to help. We can provide custom digital advertising plans, book cover design, book interior formatting, and more. Visit our contact page or give us a call at (318) 519-6230 to get the conversation started about your next project!

  • 5 tips for choosing the best Shreveport web design agency

    As a business owner, you know that having a well-designed website is essential for attracting and retaining customers in today’s digital age. But with so many web design agencies in Shreveport, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your business. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on 5 expert tips for choosing the best Shreveport web design agency for your business.

    From researching their portfolio to evaluating their communication skills, these tips will help you find a web design agency that can create a website that not only looks great but also meets your business goals. So, whether you’re looking to revamp your current website or build a new one from scratch, read on to learn how to choose the best web design agency for your Shreveport-based business.

    The Importance of Choosing the Right Web Design Agency

    Your website is often the first point of contact between your business and potential customers. It is your 24/7 online salesperson and storefront. It’s important to make a good impression and to ensure that your website accurately represents your brand.

    In addition to good design, your website should be easy to navigate, fast loading, and mobile-friendly. Ensuring your website utilizes best SEO (search engine optimization) practices from the start is crucial for future growth and setting your business up for success as well.

    Choosing the right web design agency can make all the difference between a successful website and one that fails to meet your expectations.

    Tips for Finding Potential Web Design Agencies

    The first step in choosing a web design agency is to create a shortlist of potential candidates. You can start by asking for referrals from other business owners, checking out popular online directories, or doing a Google search for “web design agency in Shreveport.”

    Once you have a list of candidates, you can start to evaluate them based on their portfolio, customer reviews, and other factors.

    Factors to Consider When Choosing a Web Design Agency

    When evaluating potential web design agencies, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost is their portfolio. Look for examples of websites that they have designed for other businesses, and make sure that their style aligns with your brand.

    You’ll also want to consider their experience, pricing, and communication skills. Choose a web design agency that is transparent about their pricing and can clearly communicate their process, timeline, and deliverables.

    At Savage Creative Solutions, we utilize project management software that keeps you up-to-date on your project’s status as well as expected deadlines. We also make it easy to share feedback with our team to ensure your website exceeds your expectations.

    Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Web Design Agency

    Before hiring a web design agency, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure that you’re making an informed decision. Some questions to consider asking include:

    • What is your process for designing and developing a website?
    • How do you ensure that the website meets my business goals?
    • What is your pricing structure, and what is included in the cost?
    • How long will it take to complete the project?
    • What happens if I’m not satisfied with the final product?

    Expert Tips for Choosing the Best Shreveport Web Design Agency

    Now that you know what to look for and what questions to ask, here are five expert tips for choosing the best Shreveport web design agency for your business:

    1. Look for a web design agency that specializes in your industry.

    Choosing a web design agency that has experience in your industry can be a major advantage. They’ll understand the unique needs of your business and be able to design a website that speaks directly to your target audience. Look for examples of websites they’ve designed for businesses similar to yours. Savage Creative Solutions has experience in a variety of industries, including healthcare, automotive, banking, amusement, education, retail, and more.

    2. Check their customer reviews.

    One of the best ways to evaluate a web design agency is to check their customer reviews. Look for reviews on their website, Google, Facebook, and other review sites. Pay attention to what customers are saying about their communication skills, responsiveness, and the quality of their work.

    3. Evaluate their portfolio.

    A web design agency’s portfolio can tell you a lot about their style, capabilities, and experience. Look for websites that are visually appealing, easy to navigate, and mobile-friendly. Make sure that their portfolio includes examples of websites that are similar to what you’re looking for. You can view Savage Creative Solution’s portfolio by clicking here.

    4. Consider their communication skills.

    Good communication is key to a successful web design project. Choose a web design agency that is responsive, transparent, and easy to work with. Make sure that they are able to clearly communicate their process, timeline, and deliverables.

    5. Look for a web design agency that offers ongoing support.

    Your website is an important part of your business, and it’s important to choose a web design agency that offers ongoing support. Look for an agency that offers maintenance, updates, and support after your website is launched. This will ensure that your website stays secure, up-to-date and continues to meet your business goals. Just like your car, your website requires ongoing maintenance in order to provide the best return on your investment. You can learn more about our ongoing maintenance plans by clicking here.

    Red Flags to Watch Out for When Choosing a Web Design Agency

    While there are many great web design agencies in Shreveport, there are also some red flags to watch out for. Here are a few warning signs that a web design agency may not be the right fit for your business:

    • They don’t have a portfolio or customer reviews.
    • They don’t clearly communicate their process, timeline, or pricing structure.
    • They don’t offer ongoing support or maintenance.
    • They prioritize design over functionality and meeting your business goals.

    The Benefits of Working with a Local Web Design Agency

    Working with a local web design agency can have several benefits. Local agencies are familiar with the Shreveport market and can design a website that speaks directly to your target audience.

    They are more accessible and able to provide in-person consultations and support. You also don’t have to worry about your agency contact being in a different time zone and the scheduling conflicts that can occur as a result. At Savage Creative Solutions, you’re not just another client. You’re part of the Savage Creative Solutions family and receive individualized attention from start to finish.

    How to Work Effectively with Your Chosen Web Design Agency

    Once you’ve chosen a web design agency, it’s important to work effectively with them to ensure that your website meets your business goals. Here are a few tips for working effectively with your chosen web design agency:

    • Clearly communicate your business goals and expectations.
    • Provide feedback on designs and functionality.
    • Be open to suggestions and ideas from the agency.
    • Be responsive and timely in your communication.
    • Stay involved throughout the entire design process.

    Clearly communicating your goals and expectations up front and timeliness in your communication can drastically reduce the number of drafts and revisions of your web site, getting your business online faster. While our main objective is to assist you in achieving your goals online, as experts in our field, we also believe it is our responsibility to inform you of potential issues and provide suggestions on best practices for your industry.

    Conclusion

    Choosing the right web design agency is essential for creating a website that looks great, functions well, and meets your business goals. By following these five expert tips and evaluating potential agencies based on their portfolio, customer reviews, and communication skills, you can find a web design agency that is the perfect fit for your Shreveport-based business.

    We’d love for you to consider Savage Creative Solutions for your next web design project. As a business headquartered in Shreveport, LA, we understand the market, can help you outshine your competition, and exceed your goals online. Contact us today by calling (318) 519-6230 to get the conversation started. We’d love to learn more about your goals, share our process, and explore ways our agency can assist you.

  • Savage Creative Solutions and accessiBe announce a strategic partnership

    Savage Creative Solutions, a leading provider of marketing, advertising, and public relations services in Shreveport-Bossier, has announced a partnership with accessiBe, the market leader in web accessibility.

    Savage Creative Solutions has joined the accessiBe Partner Program, which is designed to provide web and digital agencies, freelance developers and marketers, website and e-commerce builders, hosting services, and others with the tools needed to make their clients’ websites accessible for people with various disabilities. As a result of the partnership, Savage Creative Solutions and its clients will have access to accessiBe’s AI-powered solution, accessWidget, which seamlessly makes websites usable and ADA and WCAG 2.1 compliant.

    Savage Creative Solutions will have access to an easy-to-use solution to help ensure our clients’ websites are accessible in a business-friendly way. Making your website accessible will boost your brand’s reputation, open your consumer base to the disability community totaling more than one billion people globally, and minimize the risk of being exposed to legal action. 

    “Joining the accessiBe Partner Program was an obvious next step in the services we provide,” said Paul Savage, Jr, President/CEO of Savage Creative Solutions. “We are thrilled to be able to offer our clients the ability to make their websites available to everyone, while also achieving compliance and mitigating any legal risk.” 

    “We are committed to partnering with professionals, from web agencies to freelance developers and marketers, to equip them with the tools they need to open their websites to the disability community,” said Shir Ekerling, co-founder and CEO of accessiBe. “We are thrilled to partner with Savage Creative Solutions to help ensure that their clients can achieve and maintain web accessibility.” 

    Savage Creative Solutions will also receive 24-hour automatic maintenance scans of any new and updated content, along with monthly compliance audits for clients who opt into the new service. 

    For additional information on the program or to schedule a free demo, please give us a call at (318) 519-6230 or fill out our quick contact form by clicking here.

  • Niema’s Cookery Corner joins our family

    Savage Creative Solutions is proud to have partnered with local business owner and 2019 Louisiana Food Prize finalist, Niematulai DiGrazia, to handle social media marketing and public relations for her new restaurant. We designed the restaurant’s branding and logo, as well as provide printing and promotional printing services.

    Shreveport-Bossier’s only west African and Caribbean restaurant, Niema’s Cookery Corner, is located at 5751 Youree Drive, inside Sunshine Health Market.

    “Owning a restaurant has been a dream since I moved to the United States from Sierra Leone,” shared DiGrazia. “That dream has now become a reality and I couldn’t be more thrilled to share west African and Caribbean cuisine with the Shreveport-Bossier community.”

    DiGrazia will move her food truck to the Sunshine Health Market parking lot starting Wednesday, April 19th in anticipation of the opening. The new restaurant will also be providing unique lunch and dinner specials for 318 Restaurant Week, May 7th through the 13th. 

    You can learn more about Niema’s Cookery Corner by visiting them on Facebook.

  • Intensive Specialty Hospital expands with two new locations

    Savage Creative Solutions proudly welcomes Intensive Specialty Hospital to our family of clients. Our integrated, creative agency handles marketing, advertising, and public relations for their Shreveport-Bossier locations, including two new locations.

    Intensive Specialty Hospital is pleased to announce that it has expanded its operations to add two additional locations to serve its patients in the Shreveport-Bossier City communities.

    Their third location will be on the 8th floor of the WK Pierremont Health Center’s building while their fourth location will be on the 2nd floor of the WK Extended Care Center on Kings Highway on the Willis-Knighton Medical Center campus. Their other two locations are on Irving Place in Shreveport and Viking Drive in Bossier.

    “These expansions will allow us to continue to exceed the expectations of healthcare patients at convenient locations,” said Reuven Alter, Chief Operating Officer at Cedar Health, parent company of Intensive Specialty Hospital. “Intensive Specialty Hospital remains committed to expanding with the Shreveport-Bossier community to meet the healthcare needs of the people who live and work here.”

    The hospital’s commitment was evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when Intensive Specialty Hospitals took on the role of providing long-term care for many of our community’s sickest patients. Their high standards of excellence in care earned them praise for their commendable rates of recovery in our community.

    The new locations will allow Intensive Specialty Hospital to continue their mission of providing patients and their loved ones with professional, compassionate care in an environment conducive to healing.

    “This transition will help to make long term care services more accessible to patients in the greater Shreveport-Bossier area,” said Jaf Fielder, Willis-Knighton President and CEO.  “We are pleased to welcome Intensive Specialty Hospital to our campus because we feel they share our values and commitment to excellent patient care. This relationship is an example of our mission to continuously improve the health and well being of the people we serve.”

    Intensive Specialty Hospital provides care for patients with acute medical needs within a specialized setting. With illnesses ranging from infectious diseases, cardiovascular disorders and multi-organ failures, patients are admitted to Intensive Specialty when they require hospitalization for an extended length of time. For more information, please visit us online at www.intensivespecialty.com

  • Paul Savage, Jr. named “One to Watch in Business” by Shreveport Times

    Paul Savage, Jr., owner of Savage Creative Solutions, was recently named “One to Watch in Business in 2022” by The Shreveport Times. The recognition highlights “individuals whose projects have impacted our communities in a positive way.”  The Times continues, “we searched for people who were using their skills to make Shreveport and Bossier City better places.”

    “I’ve always been proud of the work Savage Creative Solutions has done and the clients we’ve been privileged to work with,” said Paul Savage, Jr.  “It’s extremely humbling to see others recognize the great work we do as well.”

    The Shreveport Times says, “our list of 5 people to watch in business in 2022 features some of the brightest, most driven, and compassionate business people in Shreveport and Bossier City.”

    The story appeared online Wednesday, December 22nd and will be featured in an upcoming print issue. It shared a short bio about Paul Savage, Jr., along with what he hopes to accomplish in 2022 and the highlight of his success in 2021.

    Paul Savage, Jr. hopes to be able to continue providing high-quality and affordable marketing, advertising, design, and public relation services to small businesses in the Shreveport-Bossier area as they continue to recover from the effects of the pandemic. Small businesses were one of the hardest hit sectors of the industry by COVID-19. Savage Creative Solutions wants to afford others in our community the opportunity to both pursue their passions and provide for their families.

    “I understand many of my clients are using their savings or money that could have been food on the table for their families,” said Paul Savage, Jr.. “We don’t take that responsibility lightly.”

    The highlight of his success was being brought on by the Shreveport Commission on Race & Diversity to assist with web design, audio/video projects, and other services as needed or requested by the commission.

    The Commission was appointed by Mayor Adrian Perkins in early 2020 to address race relations in the Shreveport community as it directly relates to healthcare, criminal justice, and education. Savage said Savage Creative Solutions is honored to be a small part of that mission.

    Others honored by The Times include Jessica Hemingway with the Bossier Chamber of Commerce, Asha Linnear with Stylish Asha, Brett Brown with the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program, and Laurie Boswell with Holy Angels Residential Facility.

    You can read the full article on The Shreveport Times website by clicking here.

    Featured image courtesy of The Shreveport Times.

    Paul Savage, Jr. named "One to Watch in Business in 2022" by Shreveport Times

  • Why Should You Consider Marketing Now?

    As we approach the beginning of a New Year many businesses see a decline in sales and revenue after the holidays. The ongoing pandemic also leads many advertisers to allocating a smaller marketing budget. Here’s why you may want to reconsider this strategy.

    In the late 1920s, two popular brands were competing for the dominant position in an emerging consumer trend: packaged cereal. These two brands were Kellogg and Post. With an uncertainty in consumer demand during the Depression, Post reigned in their advertising. Kellogg did the exact opposite; it doubled its advertising budget. By 1933, even as the economy hung in the balance, Kellogg’s profits had risen nearly 30%. This strategic decision solidified Kellogg into what it is today: the industry’s dominant brand in the packaged cereal market.

    Marketing is about getting your product or service in front of a particular audience to ensure they think of you first when the need arises. Sales and revenue growth are a result of great marketing.

    When competitor’s did the predictable thing and decreased their advertising budget, Kellogg pounced and ensured consumers knew about their products and brand.

    Now is the time to pounce. Many businesses either don’t have a budget or have significantly reduced theirs due to the pandemic and typical results seen after the New Year. This is an opportunity for you to showcase your business in a crowded field, with a much smaller budget.

    We have packages available for businesses of all sizes. We’ve grown with many of our clients and that’s exactly what we want to do with you. We believe that is what makes Savage Creative Solutions so unique. Every business has a story. Let us tell yours.

    As an integrated advertising agency headquartered in Shreveport, Louisiana, we can handle all of your marketing and advertising need under one roof. This means easier accounting, more consistent brand, and great impact! Web design, graphic design, marketing strategy, digital advertising, print and mailer services, and more, we’ve got you covered.

    You can view some of our previous work, send us a message, or shoot us an email to get the conversation started. It would be our pleasure to have you as part of the Savage Creative Solutions’ family.

  • 10 Ways to Win with Your Black Friday Marketing

    November brings us into what is typically the busiest time of the year for many businesses! The last couple months of the year bring Black Friday, Shop Small Saturday, and Cyber Monday. When the pandemic hit it also changed shopping habits and amplified online shopping, as many retailers remained closed.

    This trend will likely continue and your business should be ready handle the influx of customers as well as the changing trends.

    1. Have a website

    A Facebook Page isn’t enough. If you don’t have a website you’re going to be missing out on a huge number of potential customers! Customers are increasingly researching products and deals online. If you don’t have a responsive website, you won’t even be a part of those conversations and discussions.

    Make sure your website has your updated hours and any additional procedures they should be aware of due to the pandemic. You should also include all of your Black Friday, Shop Small Saturday, and Cyber Monday deals on your website. Be sure these are listed using text and not an image or linked PDF, as Google can have trouble indexing those types of media. If Google can’t read it and show it to the appropriate shopper, it’s pointless. These types of media are often difficult to navigate on mobile devices as well, which is where the majority of shoppers are searching.

    2. Consider deals and promotions

    Consumers are looking for the best deal. The internet has made it extremely easy to research who has the best ones in a larger geographic area, before they even leave their home. A special deal or promotion could make your business more competitive with others. Consider a discount, giving a special gift to the first x number of shoppers, or something similar.

    3. Make sure hours of operations are defined

    We already discussed this a bit with your website, but I think it’s important enough to mention again. Ensure your website has accurate and up-to-date information. Double check your address (if you’ve moved recently), hours of operation, and contact information. Test your contact forms and ensure they’re working as expected. If a customer can’t get a quick response, they will move on. Having inaccurate information could cost you big!

    4. Update your online directory listings

    While you’re checking your website, make sure other online listings have updated information for your business as well. This could include your Google Business Listing, Yelp Business Listing, and other similar business listings online. Google also now allows you to include posts on your business listing on the search engine. Use this to increase the reach of those searching for products or services you sell!

    5. Take advantage of digital advertising

    Social media gives us unique targeting capabilities that can’t be found anywhere else. It can often give you the most return on your investment due to these very targeted demographic and audience capabilities. Capitalize on this cheap, targeted advertising avenue.

    Google Ads are another great example of digital advertising that is highly beneficial for businesses during the holiday season! Google Ads are pay-pay-click. Therefore, you don’t pay unless someone actually clicks on your ad. While social platforms are great for building awareness around your business, product, or service, Google users actually have an intent to already buy when your ad appears. This is important. Because your ad appears based on keywords, they are actually searching for your product or service at the moment your ad appears! That’s huge! And when consumers are researching on Google, you want to appear when your specific keywords are searched for in your area.

    6. Send out a mailer

    Mail is not dead. Many people are still working from home during the pandemic, making mail an even more important part of your marketing strategy. Include contact information and details about your deals or promotions. Be sure to include any details about who is eligible and any date ranges that are specific to the sale.

    Mailers can come in many different sizes. Using a unique size, can help yours stand out in their inbox! You can also target mailing lists not only by geographic areas, but also household demographics as well. Only want to target households with pets? You can do that.

    7. Ensure you have extra staffing

    The holidays mean higher demand. Ensure you have extra staffing to handle the higher demand for online orders and to safely meet demand in store during this busier season. You can have an excellent deal and product, but if a customer can’t make the purchase or has a bad experience you can bet they’ll move on to somewhere else. Competition is too great during this time of the year for bad customer service. Keep this in mind when making those schedules!

    Many businesses are experiencing a shortage of workers right now. If that’s the case for you, perhaps spreading your deals out over a longer period of time would be more ideal. Many big box retailers have begun to do the same as well to limit the large crowds that typically appear on these days.

    8. Take advantage of stories

    Stories are one of the most underutilized features by many businesses! Customers love to see behind-the-scenes. Share short clips of your staff putting out the holiday inventory, share special products that will be on sale, and other promos. Don’t worry about these being perfect. Since they will be gone in 24 hours, customers are used to this type of media being less-polished and actually prefer it. Professionally edited videos typically stick out as ‘ads’ and don’t perform as well. This can be an easy and quick way to get the word out about your holiday plans!

    9. Use a geofilter

    Geofilters are very inexpensive and fairly easy to setup! You can find design specifications on Snapchat. Then, just log into your Snapchat account online, upload your artwork, choose the area you want it to be visible in, and complete the purchase.

    Placing a geofilter over your location or even a competitor’s location can help spread the word about your promotions and attract additional in-person customers. It’s also a great way for customers to share loyalty to your brand!

    10. Ensure consistency across all marketing channels

    Make it easy for customers to remember and distinguish your business when they see it. All of your ads, across all mediums, should have the same look and feel. Customers typically have to see your ad multiple times before deciding to make a purchase. This metric is called frequency. You’ll likely see it in your ad insights.

    Whether they’re seeing a billboard or a Facebook ad, they should be able to immediately make the connection. This means using the same brand colors, models, fonts (the way the text looks), and logo. This also helps build brand equity that is beneficial after the holiday season is over as well!

    Start with these tips and you’ll be well on your way to a successful holiday shopping season and beyond! If you’d like assistance with promoting your Black Friday, Shop Small Saturday, or Cyber Monday sales we’d love to see how we can help. Send us a message or give us a call at (318) 545-2600 and we’ll get the conversation started.

  • 17 Marketing Tips for Fitness Trainers

    Personal training can be a rewarding profession that allows you to help others and make your own schedule; however, many times fitness trainers will not reach the level of success they yearn for. Often, this difficulty can be traced back to something they are doing themselves or rather the lack of something they are not doing. We’ll be diving into some ways that personal trainers or fitness trainers can maintain communications with as well as upsell their current clients, while expanding their reach for potential new clients.

    1. Implement an Email Marketing Strategy

    If you are not currently using email marketing as part of your marketing strategy, you should. One of the best ways to try to expand your reach or stay in touch with existing clients is through email. It’s one of the most personal mediums we have available to us. And what’s more personal than personal training? It’s an excellent way to develop a relationship with your clients. You might use it to provide motivation, links to relevant articles, links to your own blog posts, or to promote some of your other services. Many fitness trainers only see a client a couple times a month. This also ensures your clients are thinking about you even when you aren’t necessarily in the gym with them! Be sure to always include social and sharing links within your emails. Also, invest in an email marketing solution, similar to what Savage Creative Solutions offers. It can save you many headaches down the road when email addresses bounce back or someone unsubscribes, and even legal troubles.

    2. Provide An Incentive for Referrals (For Both Parties)

    Most fitness or personal trainers agree that the vast majority of their clients come from word-of-mouth. This is great but it’s also important you’re doing your part to help facilitate this behavior. Studies show that the person who gave the referral was actually more interested in helping one of their friends rather than themselves. So why not reward both? You’ll have a happy client and an eager potential client. You could include a referral form on your website with social sharing links that make the process easier for them. Better yet, why not go a step further and include a coupon in your email marketing? “Forward To A Friend And Each of You Will Receive One Free Session.” While it’s acceptable to ask for referrals on a weekly or monthly basis, don’t come off looking desperate. Give your client’s the perception that your schedule is constantly filled and you just had an opening that won’t remain open for long!

    3. Give Your Clients Homework

    Everyone loves to feel like they are getting more than they paid for! What is one way to do this? Give your client homework. Homework is a great way to give value to your clients even outside of your regular sessions. It could be something as simple as doing an exercise at home, filling out a food or exercise journal, or even buying something from the grocery store. Their homework might also include some type of fitness technology, such as My Fitness Pal. Many trainers stray from these types of apps, worrying that the nutritional and workout recommendations offered by them could deter clients from booking sessions. The reality is that you offer a personalized experience, in-person motivation, and unique programs that just can’t be found in an app. Using apps similar to this can keep you at the top of your client’s brain outside of sessions as well as further their goals. And if the idea was offered by you to begin with, then guess who look’s like the expert?

    Zuma Fitness4. Brand Your Unique Techniques

    Ever heard of “Zumba?” This is a branded workout routine. Come up with a unique strategy or technique, give it a creative name, and promote the heck out of it! Set up an automated email marketing campaign that provides new signees just enough to pique their interest, with content that funnels the user back to you and signing up for their first session. See how important email marketing can be? Also, be sure to have a separate page on your website dedicated to your unique process. The page’s URL along with a large header should include the specific name you chose. Then, be sure to include more generic terms that people might normally search for when seeking a similar routine to help yours appear higher in search results. All of your social media cover photos should feature this technique as well! If your signature workout is “Alan’s Absolutely Awesome Abs,” (That was something quick, but you get the point) then you should appear to be the local expert on abs across your website, marketing, as well as social media.

    5. List Yourself on Popular DirectoriesIdea Health & Fitness Association

    This could technically be called SEO or search engine optimization as it’s basically using back links to raise your rankings in search engines, but since we have a separate section for SEO (see below) we’ll leave this as number five. Start by doing a Google Search for “personal trainer shreveport.” It’s kind of sad how few personal trainers’ personal websites actually rank for these keywords. If you’re one of them, congratulations. If you’re not, well that’s probably why you’re reading this article. Prepare to reach the top! Take note of all of the directories that appear on this first or second page. Two that particularly stick out are Thumbtack and Idea Fit. Then, take the time to go submit yourself to all of these directories; all of them. Pay extra attention to your phone number, address, email, and website, ensuring they are consistent across all of the directories. Inconsistent contact information can result in you being penalized by Google.

    6. Sell Group Fitness Packages to Business Owners

    Science shows you feel better when you workout regularly and when you feel better you are more productive. For business owners that means employees who hit the gym are also more profitable. Use this science to your advantage! A more productive workers means an overall more profitable business. Who doesn’t want that? Now, who should you sell this too? Well, where do a lot of business owners normally congregate? How about the Chamber of Commerce? This idea is stupidly easy to sell! Reach out to the director of your local chamber of commerce letting them know that you would like to give a talk on how group fitness packages can increase companys’ profitability. You might also reach out to organizers for upcoming networking events or business seminars in your city as well. By offering something valuable to their members, you’re almost guaranteed help in organizing an event or the ability to contribute to one that has already been planned!

    7. Partner With Another Health-Conscious Business

    Partnering with other larger organizations that have similar philosophies can be extremely beneficial to growing your own business. This can not only offer additional exposure but also build your credibility and brand. In Shreveport, for example, Rhino Coffee attracts a lot of millennials who are known for wanting unique, fun ways to exercise. Why not offer a morning yoga class or workout for a small fee or even donation? Personal trainers can often earn a sizable amount of money for just 2-3 hours of work. It also increases your authority in the community and connects you with a demographic you might not otherwise have connected with. Always be on the lookout for businesses that might meet this criteria and reach out to them to forge partnerships. Be sure to advertise your upcoming events to your current clients by including the date, time, and location in your email marketing as well as on your website.

    8. Offer Healthy Shopping Outings

    We all know nutrition is, for the most part, more important more than exercising. There’s no better way to show a client you care than taking them on a healthy shopping outing, showing them exactly what they should be eating. Many people are on a restricted budget, this is a perfect time to demonstrate a healthy eating routine that is within their means. Just be sure not to criticize your clients, as everyone won’t necessarily know what’s best for them starting out. It’s also a great way to upsell an additional service. Not many fitness trainers will take the time to go to the grocery store with their clients. Not only will it help set you apart but it will also make you appear as a nutrition expert! Just be sure to have done your research and have the necessary education to be able to adequately provide this service. Clients will be able to sniff a phony a mile away!

    9. Offer Longer-Term Package Pricing

    It’s cheaper to keep a current client than it is to acquire a new one. Always remember this and don’t forget about your current client base. Have I mentioned email marketing yet? Create an incentive that drives clients to want to stay with you for the long haul. This might be buying a certain number of sessions and then getting one for free or offering a larger discount for clients who buy multiple sessions. Perhaps offer a 15% for quarterly bought sessions? The options are almost endless and your current customers will surely appreciate your gratitude for their loyalty. A fitness journey can take time; make sure they stay with you through the end of it and maybe even beyond.

    10. Focus on People, Not Numbers

    Many new fitness trainers mistakenly shoot for numbers. Of course people want to train with the most popular trainer at the gym; he looks the most authoritative. But remember at the end of the day you aren’t there for numbers, you’re there for people. You’re there to make their lives better and allow them to reach their dreams. Do make sure everybody at the gym knows your name, but also keep a little notepad with names and a couple of details about each prospective client you meet. This will allow you to connect with them moving forward. Once they know you and see you care, it’s more likely they will seek you out for nutritional and workout advice while training. It’s always a good idea to have a business card with your social media accounts as well as your website address. You’ll eventually become the authoritative, expert in your gym. People connect with stories and who has stories? People. Take the time to get to know their story and the rest will fall into place!

    11. Find Your Specialty and Market It

    Finding a niche is key. Don’t try to specialize in everything! Similar to finding your unique technique and branding it, find a niche you do well and promote, promote, promote. Many trainers think it is smart to include every speciality out there: fat loss, muscle building, nutrition, or sports conditioning. To stand out, pick the one that has the biggest market at your gym. By listing it as your only attribute you will automatically be considered the foremost expert in your area. Does this mean you should only offer that one service? Definitely not. But it’s easier to focus on one market than it is twelve or thirteen.

    12. Have A Profesional Website

    Your website is the face of your business on line! You want to ensure you have a professional image that adequately depicts you, your services, and most importantly, allow clients to book sessions on your website. You want to look modern, knowledgable, and flashy. Large images with a consistent color palette and branding are essential. You can check out other gyms for color options that suit you. The site should also include links to your social media accounts as well as display a signup form for your email newsletter. A clear navigation and information about the locations you train at should be included as well. It should also go without saying that the site should be mobile responsive, as the vast majority of your visitors will be viewing it on a mobile device. Check out tip #16 for another huge part of having a professional, fitness website!

    Website Design for Personal Trainers & Fitness Trainers in Shreveport, LA13. Ensure Your Site Has SEO

    One big reason to hire a design/developer to do your website for you is SEO! There are plenty of website builders out there, but would you hire an electrician to fix your toilet? That’s just silly. You’re a fitness trainer, not a website designer. Same rule applies. While many of these site builders provide SEO tools, they are often cumbersome to figure out and simply inadequate. Solid SEO can be the biggest way to beat your competition! You should have individual pages for each service you want to promote. You’ll want to make sure images have alt tags. You’ll want to ensure your pages are all marked up properly for Google as well as have social media metadata for sharing your site on those platforms. As soon as someone goes to share your website on Facebook, it will be pretty obvious if you’ve taken these steps or not. The low click-through rate on an unattractive link that lacks SEO will do your business no good. Your website is more than an online presence; it’s an investment in your business. Treat it as such.

    Google Search Ranking14. Claim Your Google Business Listing

    Your Google Business listing is where Google pulls the majority of the data for their search results. It also gives you insights on how often you are showing up in search, how many clicks you’re receiving, and more. It can provide very valuable data for your business. To claim your business listing either search your business name on Google and click the “claim this business” link or visit www.business.google.com. You will type in the name of your business, select the correct location, and then fill out all of the details pertaining to your business. Most likely, you will have to verify your business through Google by receiving a postcard in the mail with a verification code. Once your business listing has been verified, you’ll be able to see insights and more on your business’ listing. Claiming your business listing is also what can help you show up in that first box for search results. (See screen capture to the left.)

    15. Start A Blog

    You’ve heard it before and it’s true: content is king. If you want to rank in the search engines you’ve got to have fresh content. It’s also an excellent tool to help you become an expert in your area. Use your blog to post articles on nutrition or common mistakes new lifters make, for example. You might also use it to feature one of your clients who recently met his or her goal thanks to your expertise. The point of all of this is to be personal. Offer something to your visitors. Having a call-to-action at the bottom of every post is also very important. This could be an email newsletter sign up form or it might be a blurb showcasing how one of your services could solve their problem. The CTA should always be related to the content of the article above it. Finally, plan your content. There are plenty of worksheets available on the internet that may help you or you may choose to use an online tool such as Coschedule. The perk to using an online tool, like Coschedule, is not only can you plan your content but you can also schedule your social media messages and other tasks as well. If you don’t have the time or aren’t confident in your writing ability you could always hire someone like Savage Creative Solutions to manage your blog and social media for you.

    16. Use Social Media to Your Advantage

    Social media alone can be one of the biggest referrers of traffic to your website! Your ultimate goal of almost every social message you make should be to get potential clients to visit your website, view your services, and book a session. Social media is your tool to tell them why they need to check you out and what separates you from the rest! You can do this by posting your latest, informative blog post or even a link to your latest email newsletter. Or you might promote your unique, branded fitness technique (Remember that cover photo?). It’s important to not only have social media but to also use it consistently. That’s where an online tool like Coschedule, where you can schedule your social messages out far in advance, can be a huge help. A stagnant social account doesn’t help your business and in some cases can actually hurt you. It’s not necessary to join every social network that launches! I’ll take a minute to let that sink in. Follow new networks, but research their main demographics as well as the resources needed to manage it before you commit to an additional social platform. It’s also very important to have professional looking posts that are consistent in branding with your website and other materials. Whether potential clients see one of your flyers, your website, or your Twitter it should be very clear that they are connected and the same business. This helps foster trust and credibility for you and your business.

    17. Ask for Reviews

    Reviews are like online gold! Not only do they build credibility for your business and confidence in your services but Google also pulls reviews from popular sites into their search results. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask your clients to leave reviews. It’s often beneficial to ask different clients to write reviews on different sites to ensure you have reviews across a variety of platforms. You might ask one to leave a review on Facebook while you ask another to leave one on Google. It’s important to always respond to reviews left for your services, good or bad. It shows potential clients that you care enough to actually respond and can often squash bad PR from that one, vocal client very quickly. Never use copy and pasted or generic responses. It’s impersonal, cold, and quite unwelcoming. Also, reviews have sometimes been shown to have a slight effect on your SEO rankings!

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    Savage Creative Solutions has the skills and knowledge to take your personal training business to levels you never thought possible! Our website design packages are affordable for even new, small business owners.

    Our full service agency can also handle your email marketing needs with our email marketing solution that takes the headache out of maintaing a relationship with your clients. We've also got access to affordable printing costs for post cards, business cards, or referral cards, as well as promotional products such as branded water bottles, towels, mats, or wristbands.

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