So, you’ve heard the buzz about digital marketing, huh? Maybe someone told you it’s the “future”—like flying cars but for making money. Or maybe you’re just here ’cause the term keeps popping up, and you’re like, What even is this? Either way, don’t worry. By the end of this, you’ll know enough about digital marketing to sound smart at dinner—or maybe even start a side hustle. Who doesn’t love a good side hustle?
Let’s break it down step by step. You don’t have to be a tech genius. Promise.
What Even Is Digital Marketing?
Okay, imagine this: You’ve got a small business (or maybe just an idea). You want folks to know about it, right? But instead of putting up posters in your neighbourhood—as people did in the ’90s—you’re taking your hustle online. That’s digital marketing.
Its using the internet—social media, emails, websites, and even sneaky ads—to promote stuff. Simple enough? Think of it as advertising, but instead of yelling at strangers in the street, you’re sliding into their DMs. Well, kinda.
Step One: Know Your Goals
Why am I even doing this? That’s your first question. Like, are you trying to sell your cool homemade bracelets? Grow a YouTube channel? Maybe you just want people to read your blog about squirrels (hey, no judgment).
Whatever your goal is, write it down. A lot of beginners skip this, but trust me—it matters. Goals are like a GPS for marketing. Without one, you’ll get lost.
Step Two: Pick Your Platforms
Here’s where people usually panic. “Do I need all the platforms? Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok… LinkedIn?!”Relax. You don’t need all of them. Start small.
For example, if you’re targeting teens, TikToks your vibe. Selling crafts? Instagram. Professional services? LinkedIn is probably the move. Choose wisely—you only have one person. And let’s be real: juggling five platforms sounds exhausting.
Step Three: Create Killer Content
Have you ever scrolled past an ad and thought, Wow, boring? Exactly. Good content grabs attention. It doesn’t have to be fancy, though. Start simple.
Social Media Posts: related tips, tricks, or funny stories about what you do should be shared via your social media.
Videos: People love quick, engaging clips. (Have you ever lost 20 minutes watching dog videos? Same.)
Blog Articles: Write stuff people are searching for. Like How to Tie Cool Braceletsor 10 Squirrel Facts You Didn’t Know.
Pro tip: Don’t overthink it. Just start creating. Perfection? Overrated.
Step Four: Understand SEO
Okay, here’s where it gets slightly nerdy. SEO stands for “Search Engine Optimization.”Sounds fancy, right? But it’s just a way of making your stuff easier to find on Google.
Say someone types “best bracelets for teens”—if your website uses those words (and a few tricks), Google is more likely to show your page. Think of it as impressing the internet librarian.
Step Five: Build an Email List
Emails aren’t dead. Not even close. Sure, people hate spam. But good emails? People love those.
Start collecting email addresses—ask nicely, and offer something cool in return (like a discount or free guide). Then, send updates, tips, or offers. It’s like having a direct line to your biggest fans.
Oh, and don’t be pushy. No one likes a desperate marketer.
Step Six: Paid Ads—Should You?
Do I have to spend money? Short answer: Nope. Long answer: It helps.
Platforms like Facebook and Google let you pay for ads. You choose who sees them—like people in your city or folks who love squirrels (yep, that specific). Ads can be powerful, but they’re also tricky. Start small. Test what works.
Step Seven: Measure Everything
Here’s the fun part—tracking your progress. Sounds boring, but it’s not.
Tools like Google Analytics show you how many people visit your website. Instagram gives stats on likes and views. Use those numbers! They tell you what’s working and what’s… flopping.
FAQs
1. How much time does this take? Depends. Some folks spend an hour a day; others treat it like a full-time job. Start slow.
2. Do I need fancy tools? Nah. Most platforms (like Canva for graphics or Mailchimp for emails) have free options.
3. What if I mess up?Spoiler: You will. Everyone does. But digital marketing is all about experimenting. Try stuff, fail, and then try again.
Final Thoughts: What Now?
Feeling overwhelmed? Thats normal. Digital marketing isn’t mastered overnight. Start with one or two steps—maybe choose a platform and post something this week. Baby steps, you know?
Also, don’t forget: It’s supposed to be fun. Experiment. Play around. And hey—if squirrels can go viral, so can you.
Now, what’s your first move gonna be?