Beanie Babies and the Foundation of Digital Marketing

Once upon a time, those cuddly, stuffed animals known as Beanie Babies were more than just toys; they were a full-scale phenomenon that still fascinates us today. But did you know that the Beanie Babies craze laid an unexpected foundation stone for the current digital marketing era? This blog post will take you on a journey, exploring the unique connection between Beanie Babies and digital marketing and make you rethink the power of those cute, plush little critters. Keep reading to unravel this fascinating tale.

Beanie Babies: Icon of 90s Pop Culture

From a Social Media Manager's perspective, one must mention Beanie Babies while discussing 90s pop culture and internet history. These small stuffed animals were more than just a fad; they were an icon of their time. Beanie Babies laid the groundwork for contemporary digital marketing strategies.

Beanie Babies came onto the scene when consumers began to navigate towards personalization and uniqueness in products. Ty Warner, the creator of Beanie Babies, capitalized on this trend by creating limited editions and constantly retiring old designs for new ones. With each release came anticipation akin to modern-day product drops - such as Apple's latest iPhone or Yeezy sneakers - fostering a sense of urgency among buyers.

Beanie Baby mania was further fueled by scarcity marketing tactics like maintaining low supply. At the same time, demand soared sky-high – keeping consumers perpetually hungry for more. This technique is now commonplace online, where digital marketers limit product availability or access to exclusive content to create buzz and increase perceived value.

What made Beanie Babies an icon of 90s pop culture was their cuddly appeal and Ty Warner's innovative approach towards consumer engagement, which set the stage for contemporary digital marketing practices today.

Unpacking the Groundbreaking Beanie Babies Sales Tactics

As a social media manager, I witness the evolution of digital marketing strategies daily. However, our modern methods owe a significant debt to an unlikely source - Beanie Babies. The inception and subsequent success of this children's toy line in the 90s were groundbreaking, as they demonstrated incredible sales tactics and laid the foundation for what we now recognize as digital marketing.

Let's unpack some of these pioneering techniques employed by Ty Warner, creator of Beanie Babies. He instilled a sense that each beanie was unique and had its persona by giving them individual names and birthdates on heart-shaped tags attached to each toy. This savvy strategy created an emotional connection between consumers and their products—an approach still used today across various industries.

Beanie Babies also introduced something we're very familiar with in today's market—artificial scarcity—a technique that drove demand through the roof at its peak in popularity. Ty would retire certain beanies without notice, causing their perceived value among collectors to skyrocket overnight—an early instance of 'fear of missing out' (FOMO) being exploited for commercial gain.

The biggest game changer of this period, eBay came into prominence, offering a secondary marketplace with online auctions where Beanie Babies often occupied top spots – signaling one of the earliest instances where online platforms were used extensively for business transactions. This symbiotic relationship between eBay's growth spurt due to the Beanie Baby frenzy led us right into today's world, where e-commerce is king.

So next time you see some novel digital marketing strategy, remember—it may have roots in those cuddly little bean-stuffed animals!

Implications of the Beanie Babies Phenomenon for Modern Online Marketing

Ty Warner—the mastermind behind Beanie Babies—understood one essential fact about consumer behavior: scarcity fuels demand. He deliberately held back supply and released new designs in limited amounts, creating an intense sense of urgency among consumers. 

This mirrors current digital marketing strategies where businesses create time-limited offers or 'drops' to generate hype and increase sales.

Secondly, Warner was adept at tapping into emotional engagement—a tactic now widely employed in social media campaigns. By giving each Beanie Baby a unique name and backstory, he transformed them from mere toys into characters with which consumers could connect emotionally. Today's marketers strive to achieve similar levels of engagement by humanizing brands via storytelling on platforms like Instagram or Twitter.

Finally, while the internet wasn't as ubiquitous during peak-Beanie mania as it is today, collectors congregated on early online forums trading tips—and, importantly—buzz about these stuffed animals' potential long-term value doubled up as free promotion for Ty Inc., something that strikingly resonates with how influencer endorsements work today.

Then, the enthusiasm surrounding these iconic stuffed creatures lends invaluable insights into crafting effective digital marketing strategies - concepts that remain just as relevant, if not more so, in our contemporary era where everyone is connected digitally.

Why The Intern Or The Youngest Person On Your Team Isn't Necessarily A Social Media Expert

In my decade of social media and digital marketing experience, I have seen businesses often delegate their social media posting to their youngest team members under the presumption that age equates to digital savviness.

However, entrusting your digital strategy to the intern or the youngest person on your team may only sometimes yield the desired results. This article aims to debunk that misconception, exploring the complexity of social media management beyond age or familiarity with apps.

Continue reading to understand why the youngest member of your team shouldn't be the sole warrior of your company's online reputation. Keep in mind the following does not entirely apply if you have hired a marketing intern or part-time person with a marketing background because that is a completely different conversation.

Understanding Social Media Demographics

Understanding the demographics of social media users is a critical aspect of effective marketing in today's digital age. Often, businesses assume that because an individual is part of the younger generation, they are automatically more adept at managing social media platforms and know how to talk to people on social media. This assumption leads many organizations to delegate social media management to the youngest people on the team because they clearly must know what they're doing. 

While it's true that this age group has grown up surrounded by technology and often demonstrates a natural fluency with various social platforms, understanding how these tools work is just one small piece of the puzzle. Consideration must also be given to who uses these mediums and for what purpose.

Each platform has its unique demographic profile; Instagram tends to skew towards a millennial crowd, while Facebook attracts an older demographic. LinkedIn caters to professionals looking for networking opportunities. In contrast, TikTok resonates with Generation Z audiences seeking entertainment and engagement through short-form videos. Therefore, your chosen platform should align not only with your brand but also with your target audience.

Employing someone solely based on their ability to navigate through apps may result in content that lacks strategic direction or fails to connect meaningfully with the intended audience – two fundamental aspects far beyond mere technological competence. Thus, businesses must understand how each platform works and who's using them as well – duties best handled by seasoned professionals such as Social Media Managers rather than relying entirely on young non-marketing interns.

I’m not above someone younger offering feedback on content, but when asked, “So did you buy it, or would you buy it because of the way the content is presented,” and the answer from them is no. Then we’re still at square one.

The Importance of Experience-Based Posting

Dipping our toes into social media marketing, there is a common misconception that young individuals familiar with modern platforms should be entrusted with managing a brand's portrayal online. This idea stems from the assumption that growing up in the digital age equips one with all the necessary skills to navigate social media on behalf of an organization or brand. These notions, albeit not entirely off base, often overlook an integral component of effective communication: Experience-based Posting.

Experience-based posting refers to creating and distributing content based on a thorough understanding of your target audience's interests and habits combined with industry knowledge. It's about knowing when your audience will most likely be scrolling through their feeds, what type of posts they engage most frequently with, and how they respond best to calls-to-action - all while staying true to your brand identity.

While it is undeniable that younger generations have grown up immersed in digital culture, giving them some edge regarding technical know-how and trends awareness, handling social media for business requires more than just being active users themselves. Social Media Management calls for strategic thinking honed by years spent within professional environments - something which can't solely be attained by personal use or academic study alone.

Entrusting such responsibility solely to an intern or part-time employee might lead to missed opportunities or unintentionally sending mixed messages due to its lack of depth in strategy and understanding demographic nuances – two key elements achievable only through experience rather than age alone. 

Hence, it's crucial not just to be able-bodied at using these tools but also apt at leveraging them effectively for your business objectives by leveraging experienced expertise.

Avoiding Legal and Ethical Issues in Social Media

Legal and ethical issues are one of the most crucial reasons behind leaving your social media responsibilities to an experienced professional rather than a part-time employee or non-marketing intern. Without sufficient understanding, unguided posting on social platforms can inadvertently lead to issues such as copyright infringement, privacy invasion, or even defamation, all severe legal complications that can tarnish your brand's reputation.

A hasty post with stolen graphics or music could breach copyright laws, landing you in hot water. Similarly, sharing sensitive client information without their consent infringes privacy laws. And then there's defamation - making false statements about individuals or companies damaging their reputation; this is something we've seen several instances of on Twitter threads, Facebook, and Instagram posts. Understanding these intricate legal intricacies requires more than a casual acquaintance with platform guidelines—it necessitates deep knowledge and consistent training.

Furthermore, ethical considerations also come into play when managing a company's online presence. This includes ensuring truthfulness in all posts and avoiding misleading content that might only offer temporary engagement but damage credibility in the long run. Ethical breaches could consist of insensitive comments that offend certain sections of society or spreading misinformation—both potential PR nightmares.

It isn't meant to discourage young aspiring professionals from pursuing careers in social media management—far from it! 

However, it emphasizes the importance of entrusting your business's digital footprint to seasoned professionals familiar with both the opportunities offered by various platforms and the potential pitfalls they present—a lesson worthy for every business owner navigating through today's digitally driven marketplace.

Contact Maven and Muse Media to get your social media, and content creation dialed in for you.

Content creation for social media marketing is an essential part of any successful campaign. It engages and entertains your audience, builds relationships, and ultimately grows your reach. Crafting the right type of content for your social media accounts requires some strategic planning and effort. 

So, what are you waiting for? Contact Maven and Muse Media to get your social handled for you and start seeing success today.

What Can Small Business Learn From You've Got Mail

It’s mid-September, so it’s time for me to watch my beloved '90s rom-com "You've Got Mail" as much as I can before Thanksgiving. YGM offers more than just nostalgic charm; watching it through an entrepreneurial lens, it grants powerful lessons for small businesses. You may wonder how a movie, especially a romantic one, serves as a textbook for business. Let's unveil how "You've Got Mail" provides a unique and refreshing perspective on business approaches, customer service, and competition. Stick around; the movie isn't just about love in an AOL chatroom; anymore.

Leveraging Technology to Compete with Larger Companies

In the heartwarming movie "You've Got Mail," we observe a small bookstore, The Shop Around the Corner, facing fierce competition from a giant bookstore chain. Surprisingly enough, there's an invaluable lesson embedded in this storyline for today's small businesses, especially when it comes to leveraging technology to compete with larger companies.

Digital technology presents vast opportunities for small businesses to enlarge their footprint and engage more effectively with their target audience. For instance, just as Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) uses email as her primary communication channel in "You've Got Mail," modern-day businesses can utilize various digital platforms to connect and build global relationships with customers.

Embracing digital marketing strategies is another potent tool that can substantially level the playing field between small enterprises and industry giants. Just think of social media advertising or SEO optimization. These powerful mechanisms enable you to reach audiences far beyond your geographical boundaries at relatively lower costs than traditional marketing methods.

Lastly, e-commerce platforms have also become instrumental for smaller companies wanting scalability without necessarily having physical outlets everywhere. They provide an avenue to showcase and sell products or services online, again expanding reach exponentially without significant capital investment.

As demonstrated by our favorite charming bookstore owner in "You've Got Mail," even though large corporations may seem intimidating due to resource capacity, through clever use of technology - be it emails back then or sophisticated digital tools now - smaller entities indeed hold potential power against such threats.

The Importance of Personalized Customer Service

One of the key takeaways for entrepreneurs from this beloved film is the significance of personalized customer service. As we navigate this piece, let's delve into why individualized attention toward customers is vital in today's competitive business landscape.

"Shop Around The Corner," the charming bookstore at the heart of "You've Got Mail," didn't survive because it couldn't compete with a mega-bookstore chain. However, one must pay attention to its strength that left an indelible mark on its customers - Personalized Customer Service. Kathleen Kelly and her team knew their regulars by name; they understood their interests and provided suitable recommendations accordingly. This level of personal interaction built trust and loyalty among customers, crucial elements for any successful business.

In contrast to large brick-and-mortar stores, where face-to-face interactions facilitate relationship building, digital businesses need help establishing personal connections with their clientele due to inherent virtual barriers. As a digital marketing professional, though, I recognize these hurdles as opportunities for innovation rather than setbacks! By incorporating chatbots for real-time assistance or tailoring email newsletters based on user preferences – to name a few strategies – online businesses can emulate that same level of Shop Around The Corner personalized service experienced at physical storefronts but now in cyber-space.

As small-business owners adapt themselves to thrive online amidst increasing competition daily, lessons drawn are clear: Prioritizing personalized customer services is no longer an option. It's essential if you're aiming your enterprise towards lasting success!

Adapting Business Strategies in Response to Market Changes

Small businesses can learn several key business strategies from this timeless movie. One of these is the need for companies to adapt their approach based on market changes. As a digital marketing professional, I have observed how this principle plays out in multiple scenarios, and it remains as relevant today as it was when the film premiered.

As depicted in the film, Meg Ryan's character runs a quaint independent bookstore that faces stiff competition from Tom Hanks' Fox Books—a large-scale discount bookstore chain. At first glance, this might seem like an unwinnable battle for Ryan's Shop Around The Corner; however, her persistent adaptation to changing market dynamics once Fox Books opens provides valuable lessons for modern-day enterprises.

Adaptive strategy becomes imperative in our fast-paced digital era, where change is inevitable and expedited. Kathleen collaborates with authors in the store and even has her boyfriend write a piece for the newspaper he works for to bring awareness to what is happening to her family business.

As a business owner, you must constantly re-evaluate your position in the context of evolving customer needs and the competitive landscape. This calls for agility and skill—to quickly pivot offerings or operations as required without getting caught up by legacy systems or outdated paradigms.

Additionally, embracing technology plays an essential role in staying relevant amidst changing market conditions—as portrayed by Tom Hanks' character's adept use of email marketing to drive his business forward (hence "You've Got Mail"). In current times, leveraging digital tools such as social media platforms can also significantly enhance reach and engagement with potential customers while boosting overall brand visibility.

To sum up—the compelling narrative woven around entrepreneurial resilience against corporate giants in "You've Got Mail" offers timeless insights into strategic flexibility that small businesses could greatly benefit from even today.

Contact Maven and Muse Media to get your social media, and customer service dialed in for you.

Content creation for social media marketing is an essential part of any successful campaign. It engages and entertains your audience, builds relationships, and ultimately grows your reach. Crafting the right type of content for your social media accounts requires some strategic planning and effort. 

So, what are you waiting for? Contact Maven and Muse Media to get your social handled for you and start seeing success today.

Disconnect To Connect- Digital Detox

In the age of technology, our lives are constantly intertwined with digital devices and online platforms. These innovations have undeniably provided convenience and accessibility to global information; taking a digital detox is becoming more crucial than ever. But what is a digital detox, and why is it so important? This blog post will explore these questions and provide ways to balance your relationship with technology. Keep reading to discover how a digital detox can enhance your quality of life.

Reducing Dependency on Technology: Finding Balance in a Digital World

The importance of a digital detox cannot be overstated, especially in light of our steadily increasing reliance on technology. Therefore, let's discuss the significance of reducing dependency on technology from the perspective of a Digital Marketing Professional because who better to begin and get involved in this discussion? 

We submerge deeper into the digital world with every swipe, click, and tap. This constant connection can create an unhealthy dependency that disrupts our ability to engage with reality fully. But how do we break free? That's where a digital detox comes in.

A well-executed digital detox allows you to regain control over your time and attention - two resources continually monopolized by tech products designed to hook us into spending more time online than necessary for productive purposes. It's not about wholly renouncing technology but using it wisely so that it serves us rather than governs us.

Reducing dependency on technology through regular periods of disconnection (digital detox) is critical for psychological well-being and becoming more effective professionals. 

As paradoxical as it may seem coming from a Digital Marketing Professional who uses these platforms daily, setting boundaries between work hours and personal life allows one to maintain focus during work while nurturing real-world relationships outside it - striking that elusive balance everyone seeks.

Promoting Mindful Living

One of the key benefits of a digital detox, often overlooked in our fast-paced, digitally reliant society, is its role in promoting mindful living. As a Digital Marketing Professional, I am all too aware of how easy it is to become consumed by screens and notifications. However, detaching from this digital dependence can open space for more conscious and present engagement with our surroundings.

When we put aside our devices as part of a digital detox journey, we automatically create room for stillness and silence – essential ingredients to nurture mindfulness. This practice encourages us to slow down - taking time away from screen-based interactions allows us to tune into ourselves better: noticing thoughts as they arise, observing feelings without immediate reactions, listening closely to what your body might be telling you about your health or state of mind.

Digital detoxes act like reset buttons that help recalibrate our relationship with technology while reinstating balance between the physical world and virtual experiences. Without constant distractions pulling attention toward screens every few minutes or seconds, there's significantly more space for reflection on one's life patterns- enhancing self-awareness, which forms the core foundation of being mindful.

So next time you feel overwhelmed by seemingly endless emails or social media updates, remember: disconnecting may relieve immediate stress and promote long-term well-being through increased mindfulness- making it an investment worth considering on both personal growth and mental health fronts!

Physical Health Benefits

In an increasingly interconnected world, it's becoming more challenging to disconnect from our digital devices. However, taking a break or doing a "digital detox" is not just about refreshing the mind but also reinvigorating the body. 

The physical health benefits associated with digital detox are substantial and noteworthy.

One of the immediate benefits you might notice during your digital detox is improving your sleep patterns. Research has shown that exposure to blue light emitted by screens can interfere with your natural sleep cycle and even lead to insomnia. Reducing screen time, particularly before bed, allows for more restful and uninterrupted slumber.

Secondly, excessive use of gadgets can lead to problems such as poor posture, which impacts our musculoskeletal health; conditions like 'tech neck' or carpal tunnel syndrome are often linked with prolonged device usage. Limiting this constant engagement with technology relieves our bodies from these unnatural positions.

Last but most importantly, for many people nowadays, adopting a digital detox period supports better eye health - lessening risks related to digital eyestrain caused by overexposure to screens, known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).

From my Digital Marketing perspective, while technology provides us with immense personal and professional opportunities, we are at a point where we must prioritize balancing harnessing its potential and preserving our holistic well-being - physical health included! Taking regular breaks away from screens doesn't mean abandoning tech altogether – instead, using it effectively without compromising personal wellness.

If you are considering a digital detox, even for a weekend, and not sure where to start, reach out I’m happy to pass along some of the things I have learned from past detoxes.

Does Hospitality and Customer Service Still Exist In Business?

In a world that's becoming increasingly digitized, one might wonder: Does genuine hospitality and customer service still hold a place in business? This intriguing question stirs conversations and debates among consumers and industry leaders alike. 

In this blog post, we dive into the evolving landscape of service-oriented businesses to explore the existence and importance of hospitality and customer service. Curious?

 Read on to learn more about how these traditional business elements shape the modern world.

Understanding the State of Modern Customer Care

In the dynamic landscape of today's business world, one may wonder, "Does hospitality and customer service still hold their ground?" As a social media manager who interacts regularly with customers from diverse backgrounds, I can confidently tell you it does- and that many business owners are slacking at this art of business. 

Customer care has evolved significantly over the years. Previously confined to phone calls or face-to-face interactions at a storefront counter, it now extends across multiple digital platforms – email chains that resemble personal letters, tweets responded to within minutes, and direct messages on Instagram filled with product recommendations based on user behavior. 

This modern expression of hospitality is subtler but no less impactful on the customer journey. 

Changes in consumer expectations and technological advancements drive this evolution. Today's digitally-savvy consumers demand instant responses and personalized experiences—a tall order for businesses but one they must fulfill to remain competitive. 

Despite this shift towards digitization, at its core, customer service remains an exercise in empathy—a careful balance between addressing consumer needs effectively while maintaining warmth and approachability.

However progressive or seamless this digital migration may seem, we should remind ourselves that technology can never truly replace the human touch in traditional customer service models – genuineness cannot be programmed into algorithms.

 So, while chatbots might have quick answers ready at your disposal 24/7 - remember there's nothing quite like having your concerns addressed by another person who genuinely wants to help out because 'hospitality' isn't just about efficiency—it merges respectfulness with responsiveness, which is the foundation of trust. 

Hospitality Challenges Facing the Contemporary Business

As a Social Media Manager, I see firsthand the interactions between businesses and their customers. I am currently re-reading "The Nordstrom Way" because, in my humble opinion, I believe that Nordstrom is the GOAT of customer service. But in this digital age, do hospitality and customer service still hold any weight in business today? Because these two very important pieces of the overall business puzzle are going missing.

In this fast-paced world where transactions are often reduced to clicks and swipes on screens, genuine warmth and humanness could easily fall by the wayside. Even though technology has streamlined many aspects of business, creating more convenience for consumers, it has added layers of impersonality that can erode traditional notions of hospitality. Layers are not only present online but have also transitioned to the real-life aspects of life.

I am an avid boutique shopper, and I have been noticing more and more over the past few months how I am not greeted when I walk into the small business. I will look toward where the employee is sitting, usually near the POS, and actively engage in whatever is happening on their phone. Because of this, I am not as apt to make a sale. Let me clarify: I usually do my boutique and errand shopping on a weekday when many other people are not out and about. This observation isn't based solely on a weekend encounter or busy time of day. 

This is not to say that all businesses have fallen into this trap; some still prioritize excellent customer service above all else. Yet, they need help maintaining these standards while keeping up with technological advancements. On social media platforms - my area of expertise - we observe how brands try hard to establish authentic connections with their audience despite being behind screens most of the time.

However daunting these seem, remember that every challenge presents unique opportunities, too. Modern businesses now need creative strategies marrying technology with timeless principles such as empathy or listening —thus redefining what great hospitality means today— which I believe is possible if given enough attention and resources.

Reviving Strong Customer Relationship Values

The key to reviving strong customer relationship values is understanding that every interaction with your customers is an opportunity to showcase your commitment to them. This could be as simple as responding promptly and politely on social media platforms or going above and beyond to rectify a problem faced by a customer.

In this fast-paced digital era, where consumers have many choices at their disposal, businesses can no longer afford to treat customers as mere numbers or transactions. Instead, it should be about building relationships based on trust and respect, which often begins by extending genuine warmth—much like what we associate with the term' hospitality.'

When strategizing or posting on behalf of businesses, one of the big things I keep top of mind is, what is the ambiance like if this was a real place people could walk into? Is this a warm and inviting post? Does this make the scroller feel welcomed, or does it make them feel as if they are unwelcomed amid a mindless scroll and are too disassociated to look up and acknowledge them? 

This approach does more than increase sales; it fosters loyalty among customers who feel valued and appreciated—a feeling that's hard for competitors to replicate. 

Hospitality and Customer Service will set you apart from the 50 other businesses that do what you do.  

So, let's take time off our busy schedules once in a while for self-reflection: Are we talking AT our customers or TO them? 

Are we listening? 

Do they feel understood?

By consistently incorporating these principles into our daily operations — irrespective of whether you're an e-commerce store dealing with hundreds of orders daily or brick-and-mortar shops catering to locals —we can revive those strong relationship values that may seem forgotten but are quintessential for long-term success.

Remember: behind every tweet, email exchange, or phone call is another human being who deserves kindness and understanding – much like how you'd want yourself treated. And this is where genuine hospitality meets excellent customer service.

Contact Maven and Muse Media to get your social media, and customer service dialed in for you.

Content creation for social media marketing is an essential part of any successful campaign. It engages and entertains your audience, builds relationships, and ultimately grows your reach. Crafting the right type of content for your social media accounts requires some strategic planning and effort. 

So, what are you waiting for? Contact Maven and Muse Media to get your social handled for you and start seeing success today.

What Would Your Business Do If Social Media Ended Tomorrow?

Sometimes a thought comes into my brain "What If Social Media Got Turned Off Tomorrow?" how would some people continue to market their businesses- how would all of our lives change?

In the scenario of social media disappearing tomorrow, how would you stay in contact with your community and customers? In case you forgot, there were a few days back in 2022 when Facebook didn't work for extended hours, and the masses went to Twitter to vent their frustrations. Then there was the time that one of my favorite influencers on Tik Tok got locked out of her account for an entire weekend!

 We all understand how unlikely it is that one day we will wake up, and social media will not exist, but as your neighborhood social media consultant, here are some unique and unlikely suggestions that could help businesses reform their digital strategies to stop relying so much on social media for your marketing endeavors:

1. Prioritize Email Marketing:

Email marketing might seem old-fashioned compared to sexy social media platforms. Still, it remains an effective way of reaching targeted audiences directly without algorithmic limitations. 

A person sharing their email address with you means that they want to hear from you. You are doing a disservice by not sending them email marketing materials to stay top of mind.

Business owners please focus on building robust email lists by providing valuable content incentives that encourage website visitors or customers to subscribe. Social media and email marketing work in collaboration, not competition. 

Here are a few suggestions to begin building your email list:

Add an opt-in pop-up to your website. 

Ensure you gather email addresses when people request to join your Facebook Group. 

Keep your email spreadsheet updated regularly. 

Sprinkle in Social Posts where the call to action is to sign up for your email list. 

As we wrap up 2023 and think about 2024, I want to challenge you to become more conscious of building out your list. 

I do not want to watch you have a complete mental crying breakdown on a Sunday morning on your Instagram Stories ever. :o) 

2. Revive Traditional Advertising Channels:

With fewer options available in the digital realm post-social-media-apocalypse era, digital advertising channels should be remembered. Billboards, magazine ads, and radio commercials might not sound as glamorous as hashtags, filters, and likes, but they play a crucial role. Potential customers drive by billboards and stumble upon magazine ads in waiting rooms; these traditional advertising methods continue influencing consumer behaviors. I once had a client who I advised to create postcards with a unique coupon code to set in local hotel lobbies within walking distance of their shop. These marketing methods might seem like dinosaurs, but I assure you they are not extinct. 

One big problem with relying solely on social media platforms to grow your business is that you don't actually own that account or your community.

If social media did disappear or change beyond recognition tomorrow, you would have no claim to that online following you had worked so hard to build.

Your business community could disappear overnight.

That is why you must diversify your marketing across multiple platforms to where the people are.

Multiple marketing methods protect your business from external influences outside your control and can help with brand awareness and relationship-building across platforms.

To put it simply, the more a potential customer interacts with your brand and keeping it top of mind (for example, by seeing an Instagram post, then stumbling across an ad for your website, and then receiving emails from your newsletter,) the more likely it is that you will get their attention and they will then become a customer.

Even though social media platforms aren't going anywhere, social media users are.

With people becoming more mental health conscious, the way we use social media is changing.

Many people prioritize their health and well-being by introducing prolonged detoxes or platform deletions to improve productivity and sleep cycles.

Other users are experiencing severe brand and advertising fatigue thanks to the rise in influencer marketing. Nowadays, it often feels like everyone wants to sell you something online, and issues surrounding lack of trust, privacy, and fake news are causing people to reject or be wary of influencers online.

Moving forward, people will continue to understand the value of their privacy, and as a result, the way they share content and updates online will likely change.

None of this means that social media marketing won't work anymore or that soon, no one will be on the platforms. It means that people are more conscious about how they spend their time online; therefore, how you approach promoting your business online must be intentional instead of just adding to the noise. 

I see you working hard on your digital marketing; I am encouraging you to find a way to build your email list. Even if you don't send out a single email, you will always have somewhere to begin if you get locked out of one of your social accounts. 

Because the truth is Tik Tok, Instagram, and Facebook, all platforms, don't owe you anything. They are businesses. They own your followers. If you go against the Terms and Conditions, that thing you've signed without reading, they can shut you down, and no amount of petitioning could get you turned back on. The only quick and direct way to own the right to communicate with anyone is to have them in your database and email list. 

If you’ve now got the spark to diversify your digital marketing efforts but need help figuring out where to get started? I offer comprehensive copywriting services across all key digital marketing platforms, including email marketing blog/article creation and even social media post content to help your business get scroll stopped and noticed. Fill out the contact form and let’s get a conversation started.  

Consistency Beats Perfection: Why Small Business Owners Shouldn't Sweat the Details

The adage, "practice makes perfect," is not always the truest path to success. I am a recovering perfectionist, which has kept me from putting out much of the content I want.

But because we live in an era where if we do even one thing "off-brand," we are immediately dismissed, I won't sit here and type to you that doesn't ever run through my head as I am about to push the post button. However, today I want to talk about my friend consistency and how this attribute is more important than perfection when creating content. Don't let the search for flawlessness keep you from getting content out there! Read on to learn why moving quickly and imperfectly is better than slowly and perfectly.

 It is more important to get content out there the way it is than if it is perfect.

In the world of content creation, the belief we all need to get behind is that consistency is more important than perfection- because it is. As a social media manager for small businesses, it is crucial to understand and apply this concept strategically because it is the thing that will drive maximum success.

Consistently posting, emailing, or whatever way your business is doing marketing is the only way to stay top of mind in a sea of noise.

While striving for perfection in every piece of content may seem admirable, it will quickly become an obstacle to progress- in fact, most internet users are totally over this on-brand phenomenon because they are exhausted. Pursuing perfection can lead to excessive time spent on individual components, resulting in missed opportunities and delayed postings. In today's fast-paced digital landscape, where trends come and go at lightning speed, being able to produce relevant and timely content consistently outweighs the need for absolute flawlessness.

Embracing the philosophy that "done is better than perfect" allows small business owners to consistently focus on what truly matters – engaging with their audience. By prioritizing quantity over quality in terms of output volume (while still maintaining specific standards), they can effectively reach more potential customers and build brand awareness.

When you adopt a mindset centered around consistency rather than perfectionism, small business owners can adapt quickly as market demands change. They can experiment with different content formats (such as videos or infographics) or even try out new platforms without facing crippling indecision or fear of imperfection.

It's worth noting that this approach does not imply neglecting quality altogether; instead, it encourages acknowledging that imperfections are inevitable but shouldn't hinder progress or discourage action-taking.

Another hugely overlooked benefit derived from valuing consistency over seeking unattainable perfections is increased efficiency within the team workflow process. Concerns about every minor detail being flawless can create unnecessary bottlenecks caused by endless rounds of revisions, debates, and approvals. On the contrary, focusing primarily on delivering consistent results enables teams o collaborate seamlessly without orchestrating prolonged deliberations.

This post is my reminder- that thing holding you back from putting whatever out there; it doesn't need to be perfect. The hard truth is that no one will notice- you, your worst critic, will be the only one who knows it's not perfect.

It takes time for excellence and for excellence to build momentum.

Are We Humans Or Brands First On Social Media

Whenever a friend and I go shopping at a boutique or a thrift store, if I hold something up for them to look at, I am either met with "Oh, that's so ON brand for you- Or a simple No."

This leads me to the question of whether we are now brands first instead of humans or whether we are humans wandering around as brands. 

Do you ever feel like you are no longer human but instead have become a walking talking brand? I want to let you in on a little secret you're not alone. The rise of digital marketing and monetizing our lives online has blurred the lines between human beings and brands. 

Read on to explore how we have gone from living our lives to building a brand.

How did we go from being human to now everything we do and post needing to be on brand in digital marketing?

In today's digital marketing landscape, branding has taken center stage. The evolution from being purely human to now everything we need to be on the brand has redefined how businesses operate online.

Gone are the days when businesses could solely rely on providing quality products or services. Consumers have become more connected with the rise of social media and other digital platforms. They expect brands to meet their needs and resonate with their values and beliefs.

As a result, businesses are now tasked with crafting a cohesive and consistent brand identity across all aspects of their online presence. Every touchpoint allows a business owner to convey their unique brand personality, from website design to social media posts.

This shift towards branding in digital marketing can be attributed to various factors. First, technology has made it easier for consumers to compare options and make informed decisions based on reputation and perception rather than just product features or price points.

Second, the rise of influencer culture has significantly impacted consumer behavior. People no longer trust traditional advertising methods but instead, turn towards influencers who align with their interests and values on what purchases they need to be making. By incorporating themselves into these influencers' narratives through branded content or partnerships, businesses have found a way to gain credibility among potential customers in the influencer's community.

Third, social media algorithms favor consistent messaging by promoting content that fits within established patterns or themes associated with specific brands. This type of messaging incentivizes business owners to maintain an active presence on these platforms and ensure that every piece of content they publish reinforces their overall brand image.

While this new paradigm may seem daunting at first glance for business owners, trying to keep up with evolving trends while remaining authentic can lead to success in building long-term customer loyalty. It requires careful planning, strategic implementation, and continuous monitoring. 

To achieve this balance, business owners must collaborate closely with social managers to understand the intricacies and importance of maintaining a solid relationship between the creator and brand humanization. 

Because I wanted to see where my community stood, I decided to survey my Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram communities on the following When it comes to social media- are we brands before we are humans, or are we humans who are brands?

And I'm excited to share that most people answered on social media that they are humans who own a business. In the business, they are a brand run by a human. 

I am a multifaceted person- I like to do a bunch of different stuff and stuff that I liked a year ago that I don't necessarily enjoy now. This is why my approach to this whole marketing thing has always been that you are a human first, not the brand, because the brand can expand as you, the human, grows and expands. 

Are we all a personal brand now- sadly, yes, and what is happening is that in this mindset of personal brand, we are boxing people into only staying one way. They can't grow and evolve. However, they show up on day 1 is how we expect them to show up on day 4,021. And that just isn't sustainable or healthy, which is why we are having the mental health issues we are having now. 

My professional insight to you is this: do whatever you want. The only social media "rules" that exist are the ones you put on yourself. Stop worrying about your "brand" and instead worry about what kind of human you are. Because when you are a good human first, the brand won't need a lot of work because others will be talking about how amazing you are and want to support you and be in your presence. 

Turning Away from Trending: Why It's Not for Every Businesses Marketing

Searching out and replicating the hottest content may seem like the best strategy for business success, but it's not the only route to marketing success. Trending content may get the short-term attention of an audience. Still, brands must invest in content carefully to sustain their reach with customers.

 Understanding What Trending Content Means for Your Business

In the ever-evolving digital marketing landscape, one term that seems to dominate conversations is "trending content." While many businesses strive to create viral sensations on social media platforms, it's important to recognize that trending content may only suit some businesses.

Trending content refers to online material, whether articles, videos, or images, that experiences a sudden surge in popularity and engagement.

 It typically spreads rapidly across various platforms and captures the attention of millions. However, before diving headfirst into creating trending content for your business, it's crucial to understand its implications and whether it aligns with your brand identity and goals.

Not all businesses cater to a mass audience or need viral exposure; if you believe otherwise- I'd challenge you to read that sentence again. Trending content often focuses on entertainment value rather than providing substantial information about products or services. For example, consider an accounting firm specializing in tax consultation; their target audience might appreciate educational blog posts about tax laws rather than behind-the-scenes video about how stressed they are going viral.

Another aspect worth considering is the potential backlash associated with trend-chasing efforts. Many trends arise from controversial topics or provocative themes designed purely for shock value purposes - something which may only bode well if you attempt such strategies with careful consideration of how they will align with your brand's overall values.

Creating quality trending content requires genuine creativity along with insights into popular culture – expertise most commonly found within dedicated creative agencies who specialize in this area specifically – whereas running after every trend can lead you down an endless rabbit hole, wasting time better spent elsewhere more meaningful approaches tailored explicitly towards reaching specific targets instead toward random passers-by who are unlikely interested nor contribute positively just temporary spike number (not good voice nor professional).

Instead of seeking fleeting fame through chasing trends mindlessly, dedicate resources towards developing long-term strategies focused on authenticity and consistency, as these factors will help build trust among your community.

If the trend aligns with your brand- jumping on the bandwagon of a trending topic can provide several benefits. First and foremost, it allows businesses to tap into an existing conversation with a large following or user engagement. By creating content related to a popular topic, companies can attract more attention from potential customers actively discussing or searching for information about said trend.

Additionally, leveraging trending topics can help increase brand visibility by associating your business with something current and exciting. When done strategically, joining conversations around hot-button issues can position your brand as innovative or up-to-date within your industry.

However advantageous it may seem at first glance, there are also considerable downsides worth considering when investing in trendy topics as part of your content strategy.

One notable drawback is that trends come as fast as they go; what's trending today might fade into oblivion tomorrow. For instance- most recently viral TikTok challenges often disappear just after a few days due to evolving interest patterns among users. Suppose you invest heavily in producing content centered solely around short-lived trends. In that case, you risk losing relevance quickly once those trends fizzle out.

Another pitfall lies in maintaining authenticity while jumping on these trendy bandwagons - since trying too hard might result in coming off as disingenuous or insincere- which could tarnish trust between customers.

Only some companies can benefit from hopping on the bandwagon of trending content. It is crucial for business owners to carefully examine the various social media platforms and identify developments that align with their brand values and goals.

While it may be tempting to jump on the latest viral trend or hashtag, mindlessly following what others are doing can result in a loss of authenticity and dilution of brand identity. Trending content may generate short-term buzz but only sometimes translates into long-term success or meaningful connections with customers.

Instead of chasing fleeting social media trends, business owners should take a more strategic approach by examining each social media platform for its unique developments. 

You must determine whether the trends align with your brand's vision and objectives. For instance, if your target audience consists mainly of professionals in B2B industries, you will find more value in LinkedIn than trying out an Instagram trend due to its emphasis on networking opportunities rather than entertaining visuals.

Determining How Much Time and Money to Invest in Trendy Content

Understanding your brand identity and values is one key factor in determining how much resources should be allocated toward creating trendy content. While some businesses thrive on being seen as cutting-edge or innovative by incorporating the latest trends into their marketing strategy, others may have built their reputation around being reliable or timeless. As a business owner, you must assess whether following trends would enhance or dilute your brand image.

Additionally, analyzing data about consumer behavior can help you gauge if investing in trending content will yield significant returns on investment (ROI). Studying metrics such as engagement rates and click-through rates related specifically to trend-focused campaigns versus more traditional approaches within your industry niche can provide valuable insights into what resonates best with your target audience.

It's also essential to take into consideration that while chasing after different trends constantly often leads companies down a path of inconsistency – which doesn't bode well when building customer trust over time - Investing too heavily in fleeting fads could divert limited resources away from other critical aspects of running a successful business such as product development or customer service.

Instead of time spent developing strategies centered solely on capturing temporary attention, your time might be better spent by nurturing relationships that drive long-term growth.

Contact Maven and Muse Media to get your social media handled for you.

Content creation for social media marketing is an essential part of any successful campaign. It serves to engage and entertain your audience, build relationships, and ultimately grow your reach. Crafting the right type of content for your social media accounts requires some strategic planning and effort. 

So, what are you waiting for? Contact Maven and Muse Media to get your social handled for you and start seeing success today.

Barbie Movie Marketing: Thinking Outside the Box And Its Benefits For Business Owners

In an age of ever-expanding media, it takes an out-of-the-box approach to capture an audience's attention truly. Step forward to the Barbie movie marketing "masterclass," establishing best practices for delivering an impactful message to their target demographic. By crafting an innovative brand-centered strategy, watch how to make a statement that will leave even the most jaded observer transfixed. Put your promo game into overdrive and learn the ins and outs of a hype-filled movie marketing campaign. Read on to find out more!

Barbie Movie Marketing and its Benefits for Business Owners

In today's ever-evolving marketing world, businesses constantly search for innovative ways to captivate their audience. One such "masterclass" in reaching an audience can be found in the realm of Barbie movie marketing. This article will provide a comprehensive introduction to the strategies employed in marketing the Barbie movie franchise and highlight the significant benefits it can offer business owners.

(Full Disclosure- At the time of this writing, I haven’t seen the movie yet, and I am writing strictly about the marketing efforts that have gone into it and the social media posts almost one week since it’s release. )

This topic got sparked because, at a networking event last week, a fellow copywriter asked me my thoughts on the movie marketing, to which I replied that it’s genius!

But my biggest takeaway from being marketed to since January on this movie is that the formula is 

80% Brand Awareness

19% Killer AND Different Content

1%  DO whatever you want!  

A marketing strategy that I can most definitely get behind.

A key takeaway from Barbie movie marketing is how effectively they utilize social media platforms as powerful tools for engagement. As a business owner looking to promote your brand or product, understanding how to leverage social media channels is crucial for success. By observing Barbie's tactics on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc., you can gain valuable insights into creating compelling, shareable content that resonates with your target audience.

Another noteworthy benefit is studying Barbie movie marketing lies within influencer collaborations or partnerships. Influencers are instrumental in reaching new audiences and generating buzz around products or services offered by businesses like yours. Their ability to connect with followers individually has proven invaluable through brand endorsements and online events - helping increase visibility while fostering genuine connections between brands & customers alike! I mean have you seen the merch boxes influencers received from the movie- they are phenomenal.

The marketing team rocked the emphasis placed on storytelling throughout the campaign- it offered valuable lessons about crafting narratives that resonate deeply with consumers. There are not only stories from the brand itself, but consumers shared their Barbie stories all over social media. Business owners who understand how crucial storytelling is when promoting themselves are more likely able to engage potential consumers emotionally- which is all that successful marketing is. 

To effectively engage with girls of every age in today's digital age, social media platforms play an integral role in reaching them where they spend most of their time online. I don't know about you, but I saw people of all ages generating their AI Barbie selfie and posting it all over social.

As a business's social media and marketing person, figuring out and creating enticing content that resonates with and encourages sharing among your particular audience segment is crucial.

Eye-catching visuals such as vibrant colors, memes, and playful animations will capture attention amidst the ever-scrolling feeds on platforms like Instagram or TikTok. Creating shareable content through clever challenges or interactive games (Hello Barbie AI Selfie- The #BarbieSelfieGenerator campaign has been shared over 10 million times at the time of this writing on social media.) enhances engagement.

Keep in mind when you are creating content that Instagram & Tik Tok is where people go to disassociate and be entertained- this type of content encourages user-generated content, further amplifying brand awareness without spending more of your marketing budget. 

Leveraging user-generated content through strategic contests or challenges taps into our innate desire for self-expression AND our ingrained need for peer validation—an important aspect when targeting demographics of all age ranges. 

Developing a Strategy for Social Media Engagement

In hallways of social media platforms, social media engagement plays a crucial role in reaching and connecting with an audience. 

To effectively engage with your audience on social media platforms, developing a comprehensive strategy that considers various factors such as content creation, timing, targeting, and analytics is essential. Let's delve deeper into these aspects and uncover the critical takeaways I noticed from marketing the Barbie movie.

Marketing efforts for this movie, released in July, began in January; well, I started seeing the marketing more frequently in January; what the actuality is, I'm still determining, so for the purposes of this article, it will be January. 

Content Creation: The backbone of any successful social media campaign lies in creating compelling content that resonates with your target audience. Remember that visuals play a significant role when developing your strategy for engaging through social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Utilize high-quality images or videos showcasing scenes from behind-the-scenes footage or exclusive interviews to create intrigue and generate buzz around your brand.

Timing: Timing is everything regarding reaching an online audience effectively. In today's fast-paced digital landscape, where attention spans are shorter than ever, posting strategically can make all the difference between being noticed or getting lost in the noise. The marketing campaign needs to begin weeks and months before the release date of the product or service you are offering. It's July, as I write this, and I am in full holiday planning mode right now. Successful launches and drops have a date and timing strategy to them. 

Targeting: One size does not fit all when engaging with audiences on social media platforms - customization is key! Take advantage of advanced targeting options provided by each platform (Facebook Ads Manager being one example) which allow you to reach specific demographics based on age range; location; interests; etc., ensuring maximum exposure among individuals more likely interested in what you offer.

Utilizing Opportunities in Recurring Events and Promotions

The marketing of the Barbie movie presents a unique opportunity for business owners to learn valuable insights on how to reach their target audience effectively. Businesses can gain key takeaways and apply them to their marketing campaigns by analyzing the strategies employed while promoting this iconic brand.

One crucial aspect to consider is recurring events. The Barbie movie capitalized on popular annual events such as International Women's Day and National Girls' Day, aligning its message with these occasions. This allowed the movie's marketing team to tap into existing conversations surrounding gender equality and empowerment, amplifying its reach across various social media platforms.

You can create timely content that captures attention and sparks engagement by utilizing recurring events relevant to your target audience or industry. For instance, if you are a business owner in the health and wellness industry, you could develop promotions around World Health Day or Mental Health Awareness Month.

In addition to recurring events, promotions play a crucial role in capturing consumer interest and driving sales. The Barbie movie showcased various promotional activities throughout its campaign journey – from exclusive merchandise offerings tied with ticket purchases to interactive social media contests where fans could win VIP experiences at premieres.

Business owners can emulate this approach by creating limited-time offers or discounts that incentivize customers while generating excitement around their products or services. By leveraging these promotions via social media channels like Facebook Ads Manager or Instagram Shopping features, businesses can effectively amplify their messaging directly toward their target audience segments.

It is essential for business owners not only to focus solely on traditional advertising methods but also explore influencer partnerships as part of their marketing strategy - just like how influencers played an integral role during the release of the Barbie movie by creating buzz through sponsored posts captivating young girls eager for new dolls adorned with costumes inspired by characters from the film.

The Barbie movie marketing plan is a bold and innovative strategy that has been successful, and I'll call it right now. I'm sure more products are going to replicate the strategy- maybe even you. It's time to think outside the box on your business's marketing strategy and look to that iconic pink box for inspiration and creativity. The marketing team behind the film has done a great job of tapping into the brand's evolution and popularity- it's time to take note.