Businesses are booming in Florida, and whether you’re in Miami, Tampa, or Milton, you need to stand out from the multitude of competition or at least get noticed.
Make Your Mark
One of the signs of a serious business is a proper sign. Commercial districts are filled with all kinds of signage and lighting, and you’ll need to find a way to get noticed. Put up a distinct and relatively large sign outside your establishment. You can opt for traditional wood or neon signs or more modern laser-etched wood or LED displays. Make sure your sign is visible, especially at night. Miami comes alive at night, and so should your branding. Get additional lighting options for unlit signs or make sure your lighted displays don’t get drowned out by the surroundings. Your signage should match your establishment, giving potential customers an idea of what to expect: formal no-nonsense sign for business-like settings and more expressive signs for casual ones. Incorporate your branding inside and outside your establishment and in specific items that line-up with your business. With almost everyone taking selfies, you want your customers to be able to take a photo in front of one of your signs.
Get Pinned
In a world of smartphones and GPS, nobody asks for directions anymore. Get your establishment listed on GoogleMaps, Uber, Lyft, or any other application your customers might use. It makes your place easier to find or recommend. Create a social media account for your establishment or even a dedicated web page. This gives people a glimpse of your establishment, as well as its products and services, with just a click of the mouse or a few swipes on their phones. The average American spends 3-5 hours a day on their phone, turning social media into a powerful tool you can use to promote your business. Satisfied customers will gladly give you a good review, offer feedback, or mark your place as one that they’ve visited. Of course, you’ll need to maintain a higher standard once you’ve gotten yourself listed. A few bad reviews might not mean much, but a barrage might put your establishment in bad standing.
Spread the Word
Word of mouth can make or break a business. If your customers leave impressed and happy, they will probably mention it to their friends. Host local events, or open your establishment to local clubs or groups. This gives you a PR boost and strengthens your bond with the community. Tie-up with non-competing businesses and source your goods through nearby establishments, they’ll gladly put in a good word for you if you do the same for them. Give your online followers something to talk about with monthly promos or specials that can pique their interest. Out of sight is out of mind, so make sure to keep updating your content at least a few times a month.
In the age of smartphones and social media, visibility takes on additional meanings. Every successful business needs to stand out in the real world and the virtual one with signage that delivers clear messages and an online presence that engages customers.
