A benefit for Josh Bartlett will be held this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sandy Ridge Community Center. There will be a bake sale, hot dog baskets…
PHOTO:
John Cameron
One of the most significant ongoing challenges for entrepreneurs, small business owners and marketers has been how to leverage their marketing dollars as effectively and efficiently as possible. Thatâs especially true in times like these, when weâre all dealing with the ramifications of the pandemic, political upheaval and social unrest throughout the US and much of the rest of the world.
As a result of the downturn, many companies and organizations have pulled back on their marketing and branding efforts and are taking a defensive, wait-and-see stance. But is that a smart move? For a variety of reasons, I would argue no. Nevertheless, tighter marketing budgets are a reality for many, at least for now. So dealing with that challenge head-on â in a smart, methodical way â is crucial.
Every marketer and their mother wants to know: What will the industry look like in 2021?
As the pandemic drags on, some bets are safe: Digital channels will be crowded. Most marketing events will continue to be held virtually. But other marketing trends aren t so obvious.
So what do marketing experts see coming? Hereâs what Iâm hearing from my network:
1. Personalization Will Put Buyers in Control
Until recently, marketing personalization has been a bit gimmicky. In 2021, companies will use personalization not just to craft better email subject lines, but to make the buyerâs journey more individualized. This change in dynamic requires a highly personalized customer experience that aligns to how buyers now want to do business, explained observeIQ CMO Carol Volk.