Article Contributed by Anna Johansson
Any entrepreneur or business-minded individual knows there are two things that are certain in business: taxes and change. Though there are timeless keys, like friendly customer service and the use of the web for business interactions, many trends will come and go with each passing year.
Some trends from last year have already gone out the door while others are on an upward tilt. To stay competitive and recognize areas of improvement, it’s very important to understand where small business is headed.
Here are some 2017 trends you should know about:
- Clean and Green Ventures
Major business trends from 2014 to the present have indicated the importance of recognizing environmental impact on both production and marketing. The volume of customers interested in green companies is growing rapidly, and while it may cost more to recognize green initiatives, it will open the door to a brand new target market that you were unable to touch before.
In addition to creating green products, more companies are turning towards cleaner earth initiatives. Participating in cleaning up oil spills and pollution in the ocean or supporting legislation for a cleaner environment will also score huge brownie points in the eyes of consumers.
- Online Boutiques
Lately, there have been a number of small, startup boutiques that are located solely online. The owner sells specialty clothing and other style products that separate them from the big box retailers of the physical world.
It’s not difficult to start your own online business, and many entrepreneurs choose the online boutique route in favor of a physical store. Not only is the cost and liability much lower, but it also has the opportunity to reach a much wider audience than a simple local store. Overhead remains low but the profit potential is better.
- Better Online Customer Service
For small businesses, strong customer support is one of the biggest factors that separates them from the big box stores, especially if they can manage it in an online setting.
Small, online businesses have fewer customers, which enables them to connect on a more personal level with each customer. The use of social media, personalized emails, generous return policies, 24/7 support, and personalized customer support conversations empower customers and make them feel more appreciated. As a result, they’ll often pay more for your goods or services.
- Millennial Relevance
Millennial consumption of products and services is not the largest source of spending in the United States, but it is a large part, especially where small businesses are concerned. The ability to appeal to this younger audience with valuable products and useful marketing tactics will significantly expand the reach of any business owner.
Millennials love the unique and more personalized products and services that small businesses offer. Opening your marketing campaign to include this group of consumers will work wonders for your business.
- Necessary Social Platforms
At one point, small businesses used social media as an addition to their marketing campaign. It was something they did if they got around to it, but now it has to be a priority. Social media is like one giant hub for word of mouth marketing, which is the most effective form of marketing around, especially for small businesses.
A defined small business presence goes a long way when building your brand’s reputation and marketing your products and services. Many small businesses market solely on social media and see infinite growth as a result. It can be daunting to put yourself out there, but it’s essential for establishing any small business.
Business trends come and go, and there’s no telling exactly how long these will be around. However, based on consumer habits and past trends, you can be certain these trends will be around for a few years.
It’s important to adopt them now if you want to impress customers and encourage growth.