2020 was one of those years where most people would rather just move on and forget that ever happened. However, if you don’t take the time for reflection, you’ll miss the opportunity for growth, and it’s always your toughest moments that have the greatest lessons.
As Arnold Schwarzenegger has said,
“Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.”
Looking back on 2020, here are the most valuable marketing lessons we can learn.
1. Be Flexible.
The previous year shows that no plan is ever going to be good enough to withstand all the events of this world. Therefore, you can’t be rigid in your thinking. You can’t hope that because something’s worked before, it’ll work again.
Instead, you have to follow the market and keep an open mind. When you’re open to change rather than resist it, there are always new opportunities.
2. Show Empathy.
2020 was a rough year for everyone, so in marketing and in life, it’s important to show empathy and display behavior that’s appropriate and aligned with the times.
If you can get this right and speak to your customers pain points, then you’ll create a loyal audience.
3. Create Valuable Content.
Content has always been important. However, with remote work and social distancing becoming the norm, it’s more important than ever to communicate with your audience and ensure your business stays top of mind.
By doing this, you keep your customers engaged, and there’ll come a time when they need your services again.
4. Leverage Video.
With less in-person contact in 2020, video has become a great way to create more personable relationships. So, don’t think your use of video has to be limited to just Zoom conferences.
Instead, it can be used for all parts of your marketing and sales strategy. From ad content, text messages and business updates, video is a great tool for staying in touch.
5. Put the Customer First.
The most important strategy 2020 has reinforced is to put the customer first. With so many challenges and inconveniences in the world, interacting with your business isn’t another thing people need to go unsmoothly.
By consistently providing excellent customer service and putting the customer first, you’ll convince them to keep coming back.