If you’re in the non-news industry, you might be asking yourself, “Why should I care about the what’s going on with news companies?” You might think that the findings from the Pew Research Center’s State of the News Media report only affect your company’s press coverage.
But the report on American journalism spots at least one trend that matters to all businesses – people are turning to their mobile devices now more than ever. This means that businesses need to put more resources behind their online presences.
Everyone’s going mobile
Okay, maybe not everyone. But in a new survey with the Knight Foundation, the groups found that 47% of all American adults reported that they got local news or information from their cell phone or tablet computer (such as the iPad).
About half the population gets local news or information from their cell phone, but what type of information are they after? Luckily, Pew and the Knight Foundation asked.
After weather, the second most sought-after topic is information about businesses and local restaurants. That’s you!
For a complete look at the breakdown, check out the graphic below. Local coupons and discounts have yet to take off, but I’m sure that will increase as more mainstream companies like Facebook roll out programs allowing businesses to offer discounts.
What does this mean for my business?
Businesses’ online presences are crucial. If your company doesn’t have any sort of website, you’re missing out on a great opportunity to convert potential clients into customers. It’s time to seriously consider allocating more funds to online marketing for things like a top-notch website and a social media manager.
I’ve created a short list of questions for CEOs and business owners to use to evaluate their current online strategy.
Does my business…
- Have a professionally designed, user-friendly website?
- Have a mobile-friendly website that customers can easily navigate on their phone or tablet?
- Allow customers to buy our product or service online (if applicable)?
- Use search engine optimization tactics (SEO) to drive people to my website? Examples include using certain keywords, having a sitemap, getting a business listing on Google Places and continuously updating a blog with relevant content.
- Interact with customers on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn?
A few years ago, you were ahead of the curve if you had all of the things above. Now, you’re behind if you don’t have them. Like it or not, this is the new standard.
If you don’t know what all of these things are, talk to a trusted friend that can help you with your online marketing strategy or find you a reputable web company.
Of course time and resources are limited, so prioritize the elements and give yourself a timeline to roll out the new things. But start now. Because the longer you wait, the more missed opportunities you’re accumulating.
What is included in your company’s online marketing strategy? Do you think the elements I listed are mainstream now?