Saba Digital Marketing

How Facebook’s New Buttons Could Impact Businesses

After receiving requests for years to include a “Dislike” button on posts in addition to the “Like” button, Facebook has developed a new feature call “Reactions” that will allow users to show their feelings for certain posts beyond the basic “Like”. Although it won’t be called a “Dislike” button, users will have more options to express how they feel about a post, including “Sad” and “Angry”. Beyond personal posts, the new scope of emotion buttons could have large effects on the social media marketing efforts of both small and large businesses.

Branding Efforts

Businesses working to create a particular image for their company often publish posts outlining their stance on certain issues. With Facebook’s new buttons, followers will be able to interact with these posts in a way that may not necessarily be beneficial for the business. For example, American Eagle frequently delivers messages about their American-made products. If Facebook users decide they no longer appreciate these messages of American patriotism, they will be able to express their discontentment with these posts. Once a post receives a high number of negative reactions, other followers may become skeptical of the information that American Eagle is distributing. If a large quantity of Facebook users criticize a company’s message using theses buttons, the company’s branding and internet marketing efforts could be seriously harmed. Over time, this could result in decreased business growth.

A Reactive Audience

The new feature will also offer opportunities for data analysis and growth. In the past, business owners could judge the success of their company’s branding efforts by how many Facebook users liked particular posts. Now, business owners will be able to see how many people actually feel upset, humored, or happy about their posts. By knowing exactly what social media posts customers positively respond to, business owners will be able to better tailor posts for their audience and satisfy customers.

Ultimately, the new buttons could put more accountability on businesses and improve the overall satisfaction of consumers. Facebook is currently testing the expanded buttons in Ireland and Spain, no word on when they will hit the American market.

For more information on using social media marketing effectively, give Saba SEO a call at (858) 277-1717. We are an experienced San Diego SEO agency helping clients in the U.S. and Canada improve their branding efforts and connect with their consumers through social media and online marketing.

Why Use Professional SEO Services

SEO, or search engine optimization, can be a slippery slope to traverse. You may know how to use SEO to market your business, but maybe you’re not using it effectively. Using Google to find some good SEO strategies is an option, but chances are if you have found it on Google, there are already hundreds, if not thousands, of competitors using the exact same strategies. Employing the services of a professional SEO agency in San Diego may be just what you need for your business to grow, and here are a few reasons why.

1. A Professional’s Experience Means Better Results

It’s very likely that a professional SEO service can get you better results, and possibly even place your website as the first result on Google–something that takes a lot of time, effort, and strategy and is hard to do on your own. Being the first result on Google means your website will get maximum exposure. Remember, professionals are in the industry not just because they know how to use SEO to get traffic to your website–they know how to use SEO to maximize the amount of traffic you receive and turn clicks into prospects.

2. The Industry Is Constantly Changing

You might be familiar with today’s greatest SEO strategies, but they can change from one day to the next and if you don’t remain current you will eventually fall behind. Innovative online marketers in San Diego are constantly keeping up with the changing rules of the game through blogs, webinars, and conferences. When strong emphasis was put on local SEO, for example, many businesses needed to sit down and reevaluate their current strategies in order to be ranked among local businesses, not just in general.

3. Your Website Will Be Better Optimized

Perhaps the most difficult part of SEO involves maintaining the interest of those who visit your website. According to a study performed by the Nielsen/Norman Group, the average person spends less than one minute on a website. That doesn’t give you much time to capture their interest. Professional marketers can help you optimize your website by using “power words” tailored to your business to attract interest without the need to overload your content with keywords, which can push prospects away. The result is more prospects and more profit for your business.

Keeping up with the times can be a challenge. Why not hire a professional to do it for you? When you’re ready, reach out to Saba, Inc. in San Diego. We’re a full-service SEO company offer SEO, social media marketing, web design and development, and PPC campaign management. Give us a call at (858) 277-1717 to learn more!

3 Ways to Use Smartphone Marketing for an In-Store Advantage

The proliferation of smartphones has created new challenges for retailers. Customers want to know that they’re getting a good deal on products and will not hesitate to Google items as they stand in front of the store model. Moreover, their ability to read reviews and detailed information can make them, at times, even more knowledgeable than any salesman working the floor.

Despite these and other challenges, online marketers working today can use smartphones to their advantage. Here are 3 creative ideas that are beginning to take hold worldwide from San Diego search engine optimization company, Saba, Inc.

1. In-Store Alerts

The ability to utilize GPS marketing–say a text message coupon when a customer passes the store–is still limited, but remains an evolving marketing field for the future. For now, storeowners should consider creating an app and advertising it in-store. Deals are the number one reason shoppers use store apps. Once they install said app, the owner has untold potential for future marketing opportunities.

2. Loyalty Programs

Store apps can be further utilized for loyalty programs. Offering small discounts or free item promotions on a regular basis for loyal customers will encourage users to keep the app rather than deleting it as soon as they leave the store. Like loyalty programs that rely on cards, app loyalty programs can track user data and purchasing habits. The app’s utility can be extended further through the use of advanced metrics for tracking.

3. Encourage Googling

Many storeowners wring their hands when not-quite-convinced customers Google the product before buying. Instead of fighting this, it’s time to embrace in-store Googling. Let the customer find the product online, but make sure the online description notes the benefits of the in-store purchase (warranty, price-matching, returns, etc.).

Smartphones can be a huge boon to sales if the retailer knows the strengths. Instead of focusing on the negatives, storeowners can rest easier knowing they’ve fully implemented all the positives.

Need help implementing a new marketing strategy? Turn to Saba, Inc. We specialized in search engine marketing, including SEO, social media, and San Diego PPC management services. Give us a call today at (858) 277-1717 for more information!

Top Tips for Communicating More Effectively with Your Clients

As a trusted SEO agency in San Diego, we understand that effective communication with clients is the hallmark of successful businesses. Business owners who consistently connect in a positive manner with their customers have increased sales and a stronger customer base. With the multitude of mediums available today such as email, texting, instant messaging, and good ol’ fashioned calling, the key to staying connected on a personal level is following a few simple tips to make each and every client feel valued.

1. Develop Active Listening Skills

Effectual communication starts with active listening skills. Focusing on what the client is saying instead of formulating your response. Short phrases such as “I understand” and affirmative body language, like nodding your head, goes a long way in showing you’re paying attention.

2. Learn to Stay Silent

In addition to limiting background noise when face-to-face, don’t interrupt your client and wait to speak until he or she is finished. Interrupting people, even in agreement or excitement is a sign of disrespect and can make clients feel like what they’re saying isn’t important.

3. Choose Words Wisely

Use positive words instead of negative words and phrases when speaking to create an inviting atmosphere, and use their language when explaining a product or service. This doesn’t mean talk down to them, it just means use clear and concise language they’ll understand if they’re not a San Diego AdWords pro (and why would they be if they’re using your services?).

4. Be a Gracious Host

Asking the customer their preferred way of communication sends the message that they are important to you. Although some may prefer text messaging or email, others may prefer speaking on the telephone or face-to-face.

5. Take Notes

When speaking on the phone, Skype or even one-on-one, the likelihood of you forgetting something important is relatively high. Jotting down a few notes shows that you have a genuine interest with whom you are speaking, reinforcing your desire to make each client feel like a person and not a dollar sign.

Wondering what else you can do to connect with client? San Diego search engine marketing company Saba, Inc. can help. We believe in full transparency, quality work, and a content-is-ling strategy that helps our clients connect, maintain, and convert customers. Give us a call today at (858) 277-1717 today!

Best LinkedIn Tools for Your Small Business

LinkedIn is a social media platform that is renowned for its ability to connect people with their colleagues and industry leaders. While many people use LinkedIn to further their individual careers, the platform is also an excellent resource for small businesses. There are many tools that small businesses and startup companies can use to advance their goals and connect with the right resources. Here are a few of the best LinkedIn Tools for small businesses.

Apply with LinkedIn Plugin

If your business is in need of some fresh talent, LinkedIn is a great place to find competent workers. The Apply with LinkedIn Plugin will allow people that visit your LinkedIn profile to apply for jobs. The plugin can be fully customized, and you can provide job descriptions, expectations, and requirements in a single place.

Recommend Button

The Recommend Button is an excellent tool for sharing your products and services with people on the Internet. If you install the Recommend Button on your business website, a new feature will appear next to your product and service descriptions. If your website’s visitors click on the feature, they will be prompted to recommend your product or service to their LinkedIn network. The Recommend Button can assist you with branding efforts and marketing.

LinkedIn’s WordPress

If your company has a blog that provides insightful information about your products, you may have considered sharing your posts on LinkedIn. With LinkedIn’s WordPress tool, your WordPress posts will be synced to your LinkedIn profile. This will save you valuable time that you can spend on other marketing efforts.

Company Insider Plugin

The Company Insider Plugin allows you to showcase the talents of your business’ employees. With this plugin, you will be able to personalize the profiles of the people who make your company great. This is an excellent way to demonstrate your company’s credibility to potential customers and business partners.

With these tools, you will be able to use LinkedIn to aid the online and social media marketing efforts of your small business or startup company.

Looking for more ways to get your company’s name out there and build both your team and your following? Give Saba, Inc. a call at (858) 277-1717. As a local SEO company San Diego businesses and businesses around the country trust, you can count on us to help you meet your marketing goals, connect with your audience, and grow your business.

Build a Business Culture, Build a Committed Team

A small business is not just a “small business”. Any creative enterprise, whether a start-up, non-profit, or a boutique San Diego SEO company, is an inspired personal vision that becomes a shared vision. A shared story.

The things we consider little, like a dress code (or lack thereof) and Friday morning bagels, are the building blocks of a business culture that can either retain engaged, productive employees, or quickly turn over disgruntled talent. When it comes down to it, there are really only two essential things to laying the foundation of a great workplace culture.

Embrace Transparency and Define Values

A leader’s values and choices, perhaps as much as choices of business strategy, influence team choices about how to attract clients, which clients to accept, and how to treat those clients when they sign on. Ideas like these tell team members what is expected, and inspire them to be at their best. Those little things remind your team and your clients what you believe and why.

Inspire and Reward Employees

Competition for clients also means competition for talent. Go lean, but don’t go cheap. When creating a small business culture, think intimate, not small. Attract people who believe what you believe, and take care of them. A team needs a leader who will allow them to reap the benefits of success before you do. If you do that, they will be enthusiastic to share those benefits with you. And they will be inspired to do more. And still more.

If you create an environment that is about purpose and positive impact, you won’t need a time clock, an in-and-out board, or a meeting schedule. You will have created an organization of committed leaders and team members who will bring competence and joy to the workplace every day.

Who you work with outside the office also matters. If you’re looking for an online marketing company in San Diego that delivers, reach out to Saba, Inc. at (858) 277-1717. We help companies big and small increase online visibility and connect with their target audience.

When is the Best Time to Post Content?

For most online marketers, it’s a given that certain types of websites will receive varying amounts of traffic depending on the target audience and the time of day. However, not everyone knows just what time is best for their marketing goals. For your content to have the most impact and draw visitors to your site, you should have a strategy concerning when you will create new posts.

Mornings

Generally, people are in better moods and more receptive to information during the hours immediately after they wake up. You can take advantage of this by posting content to your website or blog between 5am and 10am. It may be difficult for you to find time to post content during these hours, so you might consider getting in the habit of writing content in advance and scheduling it for the morning.

Early Evening

When people are at home after a day of work, they are likely to check out social media, blogs, and search about topics of interest. Immediately before this time, post quality content to take advantage of the increased web traffic in the early evenings. It’s also a good idea to share your content on all social media platforms during this time.

Late Evening

After household chores are completed and dinner is over, people tend to check their phones, browse social media, or peruse the internet for a short while before bed. This period is a good opportunity for you to get some views before the day ends, but because this window of opportunity is much smaller than other high-traffic times, you should avoid posting substantial articles and content of great importance.

Fridays and Weekends

By publishing and sharing your posts on Saturdays and Sundays, your readers will have more time to engage your content. On weekends, people tend to leave more comments and share content that they believe is interesting or useful. Facebook sharing is also at its highest during weekends. On Fridays, people tend to be more engaged with Twitter. Posting during this time will increase the impact of your posts and your readership overtime.

When to Avoid Posting Content

Between 10am and 4pm, many people are at work and do not have the time or resources to view content. Be sure to avoid posting any interesting or relevant content during this period. Instead, use this as an opportunity to write articles for later, work on SEO for your website, or think of new content ideas.

For more information on creating high-quality content and a content marketing strategy for your business, contact Saba, Inc. at (858) 277-1717. We are a full-service San Diego SEM company with a commitment to help our clients achieve success in every way we can.

Understanding the Fundamental Costs for SMBs

When it comes to setting a business budget, owners have two things to manage: income and costs. Income is the amount of money flowing into the business whereas costs include the money flowing out of the business. As a small business ourselves, Saba, Inc. wanted to share a few general SMBs costs that need to be considered.

  • Overhead

    Most overhead costs are known and fairly fixed for a year or more. Rent, utilities, office staff, and data processing costs are examples of overhead costs. They can be estimated with reasonable accuracy and should be reflected in the budget accordingly with allowances for growth or problems.

  • Costs of Goods and Materials

    Too often, the cost of goods budget reflects only the direct cost of goods and raw materials when it should actually reflect the total cost of ordering, freight, handling, and warehousing of these critical items.

  • Cost of Sales

    One of the most critical costs to budget is the cost of generating the revenue, which requires an accurate understanding of the sales force. Some sales people generate large volumes of sales but at low margins while others may generate lower sales but at significantly higher margins. Knowing how your sales force produces income can significantly affect the operating revenue a manager has to work with.

  • Cost of Production

    Different employees work at different rates and efficiency. Redoing work or callbacks are the most expensive production costs a business can have. Like the cost of sales, knowing and budgeting for different productivity rates can have a major impact on the bottom line.

  • Cost of Marketing

    Aside from the actual manufacturing of a product, businesses must also account for costs to promote that product. Some industries thrive using traditional marketing methods such as print and advertising, but today, many businesses find success using online marketing method such as PPC and search engine optimization which are often cost-efficient and easily scalable.

Every business is different, but whether it is retail store, a service company, or a manufacturing facility, the budget for a business should be based on historical reality but adjusted for actual costs of doing business. Planning smart makes working smart much easier and more productive.

Why Are Reviews Important for Businesses?

When business owners are ready to begin an advertising and marketing campaign, there are many tools that can be used to get the desired results. In addition to internet marketing techniques such as running a PPC campaigns or optimizing a website using SEO, business owners should also focus on the power of customer reviews and testimonials.

The Impact of Reviews on Decision Making

Customers frequently use online reviews to make decisions about a company’s product or service. Websites that focus on user reviews, such as Yelp and Google+, have created a platform that is always accessible to prospective clients, meaning companies need to focus on providing the best possible product, service, and experience because a poor review could impact decision making, and subsequently the bottom line, for years to come.

Support for Other Marketing Initiatives

As a San Diego search engine optimization company, we always encourage our clients to focus on reviews for Google+ because it can help local SEO initiatives. Google uses reviews as an indicator that a product or service is well liked by the community and rewards the website with higher rankings in SERPs. Positive reviews on platforms besides Google+ also drive traffic to your main website, which can support organic ranking, while improving overall brand image.

Reviews Create Social Marketing Opportunities

Because reviews are so easily available, customers are quick to share them on various social media websites. Sharing reviews and experiences via Twitter, Facebook, and Google+ help businesses grow through organic sharing and discussions. If you are a part of these networks and respond to your, you will have the opportunity to create a stronger connection with your target audience.

With the right focus, reviews can help your company grow. If you’re having trouble getting started, reach out to Saba, Inc. today and learn more about our online marketing services and SEM packages for businesses in San Diego, California, and throughout the United States. Call us at (858) 277-1717 for more information or to schedule you free website audit and consultation.

When is it Time to Outsource Your Marketing?

When your small business began, there’s a good chance it consisted of you, alone, on the computer, hustling away and trying to create the groundwork for your idea to grow. That means you probably started out handling marketing initiatives on your own. But once your company begins to take shape, it becomes more difficult and less efficient for you to take the marketing reigns yourself.

That leaves us with the question, “Should you think about outsourcing this important part of your business?” Here are the biggest reasons why you might.

  1. There’s Too Much Work

    Whether you’re tackling marketing tasks on your own or you have a few employees to help, there shouldn’t be more to do than your staff can reasonably handle. The aim is to have time to focus on marketing strategy, not just marketing work.

  2. Your Marketing Lacks Diversity

    Ideally, you want to incorporate both traditional marketing channels like print advertisements and inbound marketing methods such as reaching prospective customers via social media and search engine optimization. If you feel like you aren’t using all the tools and channels that you could be, it might be time to get some experienced professionals to come up with new ideas.

  3. Your Results are Poor

    If your revenue is stalling or you’re simply not reaching an audience, you might not even know which direction to turn for improvements. That’s when you can think about approaching a marketing agency who will be able to look at your business rationally from an outside perspective and work with you to come up with viable and affordable solutions.

  4. You Want to Grow Rapidly

    Maybe your marketing strategy has actually worked well so far. That doesn’t mean it’s not a smart idea to give yourself a net as the business grows and expands. A combination of outsourcing and internal marketing can help you keep up with the rapid pace of growth you may be faced with when you’re at the helm of a successful business.

If you’re thinking about expanding your current marketing to include inbound marketing channels like the internet and social media, request a complimentary, no-obligation consultation with the San Diego internet marketing experts at Saba, Inc. We provide a wide range of services for clients in San Diego and throughout the country, all with the goal of increasing visibility online to promote more leads and sales. Call us today at 858-277-1717 for more information!

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