The n°1 mistake I see Independent Alt-Business make is that they cannot explain well why they should be chosen over the “mainstream” solutions.
They assume that being independent from big-pocket interests and offering an alternative service is enough.
This can be solved by telling your story the right way to deeply connect to your customers for a long-lasting relationship.
Here are 9 tips:
1: Know Your Story.
Every business has a unique journey.
Do you tell it regularly?
Share your origins and what struggles lead you to this solution.
2: Use Your Customers’ Stories.
Customer testimonials are powerful.
Use them as social proof.
The more, the better.
3: Visual Storytelling.
Coherent images and videos will bring your story to life.
Use them to create a lasting impression.
Also, branded visuals will create a strong neuroassociation with your brand.
4: Consistency is Key.
Your storytelling must be aligned with your brand and your core values.
Use consistent messaging and visuals across all platforms.
If something looks “beautiful” but is inconsistent, discard it.
5: Engage with Your Audience.
Ask questions, respond to comments, and create a community around your brand.
Independent Alt-Businesses have the advantage here: you can create a small, compact community from little to no investment, far away from Social Media censors.
6: Use Storytelling Across Platforms.
From your website to email marketing, storytelling should be a core part of your marketing strategy.
Remember: don’t be afraid to sound repetitive.
Repetition is one of the strongest marketing strategies you can use – and it’s free.
7: Measure Your Impact.
Track metrics like open rates of your emails and conversion rates on your offers.
Keep monitoring what works (and improve it) and what doesn’t work (so you can discard it and focus on what brings you conversions).
8: Experiment.
If you have an idea for a new story or a new format, try it as soon as possible.
Speed of implementation is what makes businesses grow fast.
9: Don’t fall for the FOMO.
(I love this meme)
Just because it cool and hip and everyone offer it, doesn’t mean you need to do it as well.
Focus on your core services and don’t be afraid to miss out on some new, shiny object.
You don’t need them anyway…