Diversifying Your Online Presence

Published March 10, 2025
A digital graphic with the headline "DIVERSIFYING YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE" in bold, colorful letters. Below, a subtext reads, "If you are already successful on one platform, you will at least have the basic knowledge of how to expand and grow on another!" To the right, a large blue megaphone emits colorful icons representing social media, including speech bubbles, hearts, stars, cameras, and video play buttons. The "True Fit Marketing" logo is displayed at the bottom.

If there is one thing everyone can learn from the TikTok shutdown of 2025, it is that we all need to diversify our online presence. Just like when financial people say to diversify your money, we all need to diversify where our income streams are. This means we need to flexible about where our content lives, what the content is (videos versus blogs for example) and how we share out information. There are many lessons we can all learn from this, which begins with obtaining your own space on the Internet.

Create Your Own Website

Many major companies and brands have websites that correlate with their social media, but if you are a social media influencer or a small business that uses just social media, you may not currently have a website. It would behoove you to build something sooner rather than later.

Sure, building and maintaining your own website might be an expense, and initially a major time sucker, but if all social media platforms were to shut down, at least you would still have all of your content posted to your website. 

A website can also help build your credibility, help with SEO when people are searching for you or something you have posted about, provide a space for you to sell, and give you the space to share what you want without the threat of the ever-changing algorithms or rules of social media. 

While you most certainly can try to build your own website, we suggest working with a team who can help to bring your vision to life and tie all of your current Internet spaces together.

Speaker with social media images coming out of it. If you are already successful on one platform, you will at least have the basic knowledge of how to expand and grow on another!

Start a Newsletter

An important part of your website should be a space for people to provide their information to you to stay connected. A great way to stay connected with your followers is to create a newsletter. Building your own email list will allow you to share anything you want with your followers, and it will go directly to them. Sure our inboxes are cluttered, but at least you know it is getting to them and they have the choice to open it!

A newsletter could also be monetized and allow you the opportunity to share exclusive content, updates, sales, promotions, or whatever else you’d like to have seen by your followers. Constant Contact, MailChimp, and Substack have great platforms and are very user-friendly.

Find Where Else Your Followers Go For Content

This goes along with the saying, “Don’t put all of your eggs into one basket.” There are plenty of social media platforms and user-generated content websites like Substack or Reddit, on which people can follow you. And new ones are popping up daily (hello Rednote). This is where diversifying your content helps. 

Make sure you let your followers know where else you are. That way, if a social media site gets shut down, your followers can still follow you elsewhere. And if you are starting from scratch on a new platform, try to collaborate with people who already have a large following in your same niche so you can grow your following faster. 

Don’t Be Afraid to Diversify and Try Something New

There are so many different ways to be found on the Internet. Beyond social media like TikTok, Facebook, X and Instagram, there are podcasting sites, YouTube platforms, sites like Etsy to sell your products on, and many other ways to get your name, brand and products out there.

The Bottom Line

If you are already successful on one platform, you will at least have the basic knowledge of how to expand and grow on another. Don’t be afraid to reach out to other influencers or small businesses to see how they are diversifying, what is working for them, and most certainly, what is not working. Building relationships offline can help you maintain those online relationships too!

Why Your Business Needs a Website Redesign Every 3-5 Years

Published February 25, 2025
An illustration of a laptop displaying a modern website design, surrounded by icons representing web development, SEO, and user experience. The title "Why Your Business Needs a Website Redesign Every 3-5 Years" is prominently displayed. The background includes abstract digital elements symbolizing technology and innovation.

Your website is the digital storefront of your business, and just like a physical store, it needs regular updates to remain appealing, functional, and competitive. Technology evolves, user expectations change and businesses grow, making it essential to revisit and refresh your website every three to five years. This blog explores why a website redesign is a wise investment, the changes websites undergo over time, and the critical role of maintenance in keeping your online presence strong.

Keeping Up with Technological Advances

The digital landscape is constantly evolving, with new tools, frameworks, and best practices emerging every year. A website built five years ago may lack the responsiveness, speed, or functionality expected by today’s users.  

  • Mobile Optimization: In recent years, mobile usage has overtaken desktop, making mobile-friendly designs essential. A site that isn’t responsive will frustrate users and hurt your SEO rankings.  
  • Security Enhancements: Cyber threats have grown exponentially, and outdated websites are more vulnerable to attacks. Regular redesigns ensure your website benefits from the latest security features.  
  • Page Speed: New technologies optimize load times, which is critical for user experience and search engine rankings. 

Adapting to Changing User Expectations

Trends in design and functionality change rapidly. What looked modern and professional a few years ago might now appear outdated, affecting how your brand is perceived.  

  • Improved User Experience (UX): Websites today prioritize intuitive navigation, clean layouts, and fast access to information. Redesigning ensures your site aligns with modern usability standards.  
  • Integration with Modern Tools: Customers expect integrated tools like chatbots or advanced search functionality. A redesign can help implement these features seamlessly.  

Reflecting Business Growth and Goals  

Your business doesn’t stay static, and neither should your website. As your company grows or pivots, your website must reflect your latest offerings, values, and branding.  

  • Rebranding Efforts: Whether you’ve updated your logo, colors, or messaging, your website should consistently mirror your brand.  
  • New Services or Products: If your offerings have expanded, your website needs to showcase them effectively.  
  • Audience Targeting: Your target audience may have shifted, requiring new strategies to attract and engage visitors.  

Maintenance Challenges with Aging Websites

Older websites are harder to maintain, leading to increased costs and headaches.  

  • Compatibility Issues: Software updates and browser changes can make outdated websites buggy or even non-functional.  
  • Lack of Support: Platforms, plugins, or themes used in your original build may no longer be supported, leaving your site vulnerable or inefficient.  
  • SEO Performance Declines: Search engine algorithms prioritize modern, fast, and secure websites. If yours is outdated, your rankings will suffer.  

The ROI of Investing in a Functional Website  

A well-designed website is more than a business expense—it’s an investment that delivers measurable returns.  

  • Attracting More Visitors: A visually appealing, fast, and user-friendly website draws in more traffic and keeps users engaged longer.  
  • Boosting Conversions: Updated designs with clear calls-to-action (CTAs) and streamlined purchase paths lead to higher conversion rates.  
  • Enhancing Credibility: An outdated website can make even the best business seem unreliable. A fresh, modern site builds trust with your audience.  
  • Streamlining Operations: Modern websites can automate processes like appointment booking, form submissions, or customer inquiries, saving you time and resources.  

How to Approach a Website Redesign  

Planning your redesign doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Follow these steps to ensure success:  

  • Audit Your Current Site: Identify what works, what doesn’t, and what’s missing.  
  • Understand Your Audience: Redesign with your target users in mind, prioritizing their needs and preferences.  
  • Set Clear Goals: Define what you want your website to achieve, whether it’s generating leads, showcasing products, or building brand awareness.  
  • Partner with Experts: A professional web designer or agency can ensure your site is built to meet current standards and future-proofed for years to come.  

The Bottom Line

Your website is one of your most powerful marketing tools, but to remain effective, it needs to evolve alongside your business and the ever-changing digital world. By investing in a website redesign every three to five years, you ensure your online presence is not only relevant but also optimized to deliver results.  

Don’t wait until your website is an obstacle to growth. Start planning your redesign today and see how a modern, functional website can elevate your business to new heights.  

Need help with your redesign? Whether you’re looking for a complete overhaul or a fresh new look, our team is here to help. Let’s bring your vision to life—contact us today!

3 Marketing Trends that Dominated 2024

Published January 5, 2025

We can not believe 2024 is almost over. This had to have been the fastest year to date. Just like every year, we are going to do a bit of a reflection on the marketing trends that have defined this year. From AI-driven innovations to more personalized customer experiences, the marketing landscape has evolved rapidly, forcing businesses to adapt to stay competitive. Remember, it is never too late to give these trends a try.

AI-Driven Marketing Becomes Mainstream

Artificial intelligence (AI) continued its rapid integration into marketing in 2024, but this year marked the point where it became a non-negotiable tool for success. AI-powered platforms now handle everything from content creation to customer service, enabling businesses to streamline operations and reduce costs while improving customer engagement.

One standout feature of AI in 2024 was hyper-personalization, where businesses use AI to analyze customer behavior and preferences in real-time, crafting highly targeted and relevant content. AI helped marketers deliver the right message to the right person at the right time, increasing conversions and customer loyalty. Chatbots and AI-generated copy also became more sophisticated, handling more complex customer queries and creating content with minimal human intervention.

The Rollercoaster Ride of Short and Long-Form Video Content

Video marketing has been on the rise for years, but in 2024, short and long-form video content took center stage. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts saw explosive growth, with users craving bite-sized and longer, engaging content. Brands that embraced both short and long-form videos saw higher engagement rates, as short-form videos (think 30 seconds-90 seconds) offer an excellent way to tell stories, share behind-the-scenes moments, and introduce new products without overwhelming audiences.

While short-form content remains popular, platforms like YouTube and TikTok have expanded to support longer videos to address challenges in monetization and advertising. For instance, TikTok increased its video length to 15 minutes, allowing creators to produce more detailed and engaging content. This shift also boosts revenue opportunities, as longer videos can incorporate more ads than short-form clips.

YouTube remains a major hub for long-form content, particularly in educational, entertainment, and in-depth storytelling formats. Podcasts, tutorials, vlogs, and documentaries are common forms of long-form videos on YouTube.

One key to success in this space has been authenticity. Rather than highly polished, commercial-style videos, consumers have gravitated toward real, raw, and relatable content. Brands that adopted this approach built stronger connections with their audiences, driving brand loyalty and trust.

Sustainability and Purpose-Driven Marketing

This trend can’t be discussed enough as it will likely trend for years to come. As consumers become more socially and environmentally conscious, brands are increasingly held accountable for their sustainability practices and social values. In 2024, purpose-driven marketing was a game-changer for many businesses. Some now no longer look at this “trend” as an optional strategy but a necessity. Companies that failed to demonstrate genuine commitments to sustainability, diversity, and ethical practices saw diminishing customer loyalty.

Brands that embraced transparency and took active steps to reduce their environmental impact stood out. Whether through eco-friendly packaging, carbon footprint reduction, or supporting social causes, purpose-driven marketing helped brands strengthen relationships with consumers who are more likely to support businesses aligned with their personal values.

The Bottom Line

2024 was a year of rapid change and adaptation in the marketing world. As we look ahead to 2025, one thing is clear: the marketing landscape will continue to evolve, and businesses must stay agile to keep pace with the trends that will shape the future.

The Countdown is On: Preparing for the Biggest Shopping Time of the Year

Published November 7, 2024

With Black Friday and the Christmas shopping season just around the corner, brands and consumers alike are gearing up for what promises to be the most competitive retail period of 2024. While holiday shopping always brings a rush, this year’s trends show that financial concerns and early shopping are key factors in shaping consumer behavior. As we approach the holidays, it’s crucial for businesses to understand these shifts to make the most of the shopping frenzy.

3 Shopping Trends We Are Seeing in 2024

As we look at the forecast for the 2024 holiday season, several emerging trends stand out. These trends are driven by both economic pressures and changes in consumer expectations, offering brands an opportunity to tailor their strategies.

  1. Budget-Conscious Shopping
  2. Early Shoppers Are On the Rise
  3. Seamless Omnichannel Experiences

1. Brands Must Be Mindful of Pricing and Consumer Financial Difficulties

While it’s tempting to push for high-margin products during the holidays, brands need to be conscious of the financial strains many consumers are facing. Shoppers are more aware than ever of their spending habits, particularly when their budgets are stretched. Offering a range of price points is key. Brands that can provide affordable options alongside premium ones are more likely to retain customers.

Discounts and promotions are expected, but they shouldn’t sacrifice perceived value. Instead, focus on highlighting how your products are worth the investment—whether it’s through quality, durability, or added benefits such as extended warranties or sustainable features.

Additionally, offering flexible payment options like buy-now-pay-later can make your products more accessible to consumers facing financial challenges. This gives shoppers the confidence to make purchases without feeling the immediate financial strain, increasing the likelihood of completing the sale.

2. Shopping Early: The Best Move for Everyone

Encouraging early shopping is beneficial for both brands and consumers. For consumers, shopping early means having access to the best deals and avoiding the holiday rush, while brands benefit from smoother inventory management and reduced pressure on fulfillment systems.

We’ve all heard the stories of shoppers waiting anxiously for UPS deliveries on Christmas Eve, hoping their gifts arrive on time. Shopping early helps avoid the headaches of shipping delays, out-of-stock items, or settling for something less than perfect because your original gift idea wasn’t available. Brands that promote early shopping through reminders, countdowns, or early access deals will position themselves as helpful partners in reducing holiday stress.

From a brand perspective, early shopping allows for better logistical planning. Businesses can spread out orders, reducing the risk of bottlenecks and shipping delays that often plague the holiday season. Promoting early bird deals or exclusive pre-holiday offers also creates excitement and drives early conversions, reducing the reliance on steep last-minute discounts.

3. Seamless Omnichannel Experiences

Consumers are expecting a smooth transition between online and in-store shopping. Brands that can blend digital and physical shopping experiences, offering flexible pickup and return options, will capture the attention of customers seeking convenience. Personalized recommendations based on browsing and purchase history will also play a significant role in increasing sales.

Additionally, integrating mobile technology into the shopping experience is becoming essential for brands aiming to enhance omnichannel experiences. Mobile apps that offer features like in-store navigation, real-time inventory checks, and mobile payment options bridge the gap between digital and physical interactions. By enabling customers to easily switch between browsing on their devices and shopping in-store, brands can offer a seamless, consistent experience that keeps shoppers engaged and satisfied.

The Bottom Line

The 2024 holiday shopping season is set to be unique, shaped by emerging consumer trends and ongoing economic pressures. Brands that recognize the importance of budget-conscious shopping, sustainability, and omnichannel experiences will stand out from the crowd. By encouraging early shopping, businesses can ensure a smoother, more enjoyable shopping season for everyone involved. The countdown is on—are you ready for the biggest shopping time of the year?

Mixing Politics and Business: The Pros, Cons, and Facebook Advertising Rules for This Election Year

Published October 3, 2024

Business owners often face a tough decision on whether to mix politics with their brand. The impact can be significant, both positively and negatively.

Pros

  • Engaging Customers: Aligning with certain values can deepen customer loyalty.
  • Brand Differentiation: Taking a stand can distinguish your business in a crowded market.

Cons

  • Alienation Risk: You risk losing customers with opposing views.
  • Reputation Damage: Political stances may overshadow your product or service.

 

Election Year Rules

Platforms like Facebook enforce strict advertising regulations during election years. For instance, there’s a restriction period for political ads, requiring businesses to comply with transparency rules and limits on ad targeting. Ensure your ads follow these policies to avoid disruptions. For more details, check Facebook’s Election Ad Guidance.

What Can You Post

Here are some “Switzerland” election posts that businesses can use to encourage voting without taking a political stance:

  1. “Your Voice Matters”:
    “Voting is a privilege and an important way to have your voice heard. No matter where you stand, make sure to cast your vote this election!”
  2. “Celebrate Democracy”:
    “Voting is the heart of democracy. Let’s come together and celebrate this important right. Don’t forget to vote!”
  3. “Your Civic Duty”:
    “Voting is not just a right, it’s a responsibility. Exercise your civic duty and make sure your vote counts this election.”
  4. “Freedom to Vote”:
    “The freedom to vote is one of our nation’s most valuable rights. Take part in this democratic process and make your voice count.”

You may have to police posts should there be a comment about either side, but overall, general reminders to vote can be a nice way to connect to your community and clients.

The Bottom Line

Unless your business truly depends on the outcome of an election, it would probably behoove your brand to stay neutral in all social media posts. Remember that even if a social media post gets deleted, it still lives on forever, somewhere on the Internet.