Today more than ever, we live in a world where information is accessible at the touch of a button, a few clicks on your keyboard, or even a voice command. Although it's hard to predict where new technologies will lead us, one thing is sure: we are now all digitally connected. The internet has caused our businesses to thrive and survive, and there's no way of blocking its impact on our day-to-day lives. 

With that said, it is helpful to keep an eye out on these marketing trends that could influence how your target audience searches and consume data, along with actionable tips that could jump-start your new year "to-do list":

Trend #1: A Functional Website (Content Is Everything)

Your online storefront is your landing page. Although there's no manual for creating a high-converting copy and building a foolproof design, there is no denying that to establish your online presence, you need to have a business website. People don't usually go for the best products and services in the market (especially the ones who are new to your site), they opt for the one whose information they can digest quickly and easily. 

Actionable Tip: Donald Miller, founder of StoryBrand, has an easy and powerful way of evaluating your website. As a rule, upon visiting your site, one should understand what you offer within five seconds. Does your website pass the "Grunt Test" (Assuming a caveman were to open a laptop, look at your site for 5 seconds, and close the laptop, will it be able to grunt what is your website about?) With just a quick glance at your homepage, can your visitor answer these three questions:

• What is it that you offer?
• How will it make my life better?
• What do I need to do to buy your product/hire your services?

Give your website a quick make-over by:

• Making your headline direct (with easy-to-understand tagline)
• Displaying the convenience your client will experience if they hire your services
• Including a prominent call-to-action button ("Contact Us", "Call Now" in bright, visible colors)

Trend #2: Optimize For Local User Intent

Have you ever reached for your phone, opened your browser, and typed "Where can I find Mexican food near me?" when looking for a place to eat? You have a specific "intent" in mind (food) and would like to eat nearby because, well, you're starving. The page result will bring you a list of restaurant names and maps with their service hours. Google's dominance in search traffic revolutionized the way we look for answers online and we as users has become more conversational with our queries (whether we are typing it or doing a voice search). Thus, it is crucial for your company to appear on Local SERPs (Search Engine Result Page) to remain search relevancy and build authority while generating better leads for your business.

Actionable Tip: If you haven't done so, claim your Google My Business listing and create a Google My Business profile. Fill out your business page properly and be sure to include all the important details: address, contact number, business hours, and a unique, formatted description of your company with links to your online site. Also, you can maximize your Google presence by creating a free website with an updated profile image (logo); don't forget to post your services with description and high-resolution photos for visually appealing content.

Trend #3: Social Media Community

If Google is for "intent", the use of social media is for "interest". According to Hootsuite, 66% of monthly Facebook users use it daily, with Americans spending 58 minutes per day on Facebook. Likewise, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, and YouTube have amassed millions of users who are sharing micro-content every second on any given day. Since social networking sites have an easy-to-use interface with downloadable mobile apps, it is convenient and handy and offers more personalized interaction between you and your patrons. The rise of social networking sites paved the way for small businesses and solopreneurs to advertise their brand without spending a fortune and establish their influence by being part of an online community.

Actionable Tip: Develop a Social Media Marketing strategy. Easier said than done, I know, but every step counts. Start by posting meaningful and engaging content. "Before and after" photos work wonders to curious browsers, but what else can you post? Ongoing promotions, what's your day like at work, your current project, seasonal reminders (for example, you're a plumber: winterize your outdoor kitchen), tips and tricks (how to better take care of your carpet), etc. Monitor where and when you are getting the most feedback from your followers so you can interact with them. The key here is delivering the right message, to the right person, at the right time - every time. 

Trend #4: Videos

One of the most credible ways of connecting with your audience and building trust in your company is the use of videos. Live-stream content is flourishing and has become a powerful tool for online marketers to convey their message. It's no wonder why mobile devices and apps support and feature video tools in their products. According to HubSpot, more than 50% of consumers want to see videos from brands more than any other type of content. In fact, our website's most popular post is this:

Actionable Tip: A quick search on Google will give you thousands of results about video marketing and video creation process. You can hire services when you want it professionally done or do it yourself without the complexities of technology by being raw and going "live" on a social media platform. Bear in mind, as with any project, focus on one thing at a time. List down your target audience, the purpose of your video, and the time and resources needed to produce it.

Trend #5: Client/Customer Centricity

As a service-based industry, this concept is integral to your construction company. What does it mean to be client-centric? It is more than just offering exceptional customer service, it means nurturing relationships with your clients by being part of their "buyer's journey".  Clients, in turn, will not only provide you with positive feedback but becomes a loyal follower and an advocate of your brand. Randal talked about Customers Vs Clients, and how taking care of your clients is essential not just for acquisition but also for sustainability. After all, it is easier to maintain a client than to gain a new one.

Actionable Tip: Empathize with your client when addressing their needs. Make their experience easy, from reaching out to you (note: the "call-to-action" button on your website mentioned earlier) to handing payments. 

In conclusion: Let's keep in mind that trends fade away. Invest in yourself and expand your skills. Develop a growth-mindset because there's still no one-size-fits-all marketing solution for every type of business nor will there ever be. As a construction contractor, I trust that you are adaptable to change and resilient in all the challenges that come your way. May this year bring you more exciting opportunities and financial blessings. Happy 2019!

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About The Author:

Norhalma Verzosa is a Certified Construction Marketing Professional and works as the Webmaster of Fast Easy Accounting located in Lynnwood, WA. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Certified Internet Web Professional with a Site Development Associate, Google AdWords Search Advertising, and HubSpot Academy certifications. She manages the entire web presence of Fast Easy Accounting using a variety of SAAS tools including Hubspot, InfusionSoft, Shopify, and WordPress.