Inbound marketing is one of the more effective ways to get a high yield return on your marketing efforts. And, taking advantage of your software in particular can streamline your efforts by automating content and measuring ROI.
With various options available, it can be challenging to know which one is the best match for your budget and unique business needs. We can offer suggestions, but we can’t make the decision for you, so here are some guidelines to help get your research underway.
1. Budget and Resources
Take a realistic look at your marketing needs and your budget. Determine how much you are currently spending on your marketing efforts and whether or not it is worth the cost. Look at the strengths and weaknesses of your staff and/or marketing department. Come up with a realistic number for a monthly budgetary allowance. Keep in mind that monthly prices for automated software packages range from $300 a month to more than $20,000 a month. Nevertheless, even if you have a more modest budget, you can still get a significant amount of inbound marketing support if you research and choose wisely.
2. Meeting Needs
With a wide range of prices for your inbound marketing packages comes a wide range of service options. Look at what specific areas you need the most help with—lead generation, content creation, training resources, sales integration, data collection, etc. Now, look at some of the inbound marketing superstars out there, such as HubSpot, Pardot, Marketo, and others, and assess which one can best meet your needs. Be sure you understand exactly what your package includes and how those features will most benefit you. Marketing covers a wide range of particulars so it is mission critical that you select the partner that will enable you to get the most ROI.
3. Quality Content
This one is a no-brainer. The entire premise of inbound marketing is based on using quality content to bring your audience to you, rather than you chasing them down— to quote Field of Dreams, “ If you build it, they will come”.
If the goal is built upon the belief that offering relevant content and information will draw your target audience to you, then it seems pretty obvious that you must have good content! Or better yet, great content!
Always choose quality over quantity. Think like your audience and write for them—What problems are they trying to solve? What information are they seeking online? What knowledge can you impart that your competitors cannot? Offer them what they need, and they will come to you. That way you'll get the most out of your inbound marketing packages.
Need to brush up on inbound marketing basics? Read this recent post for more and make sure to download our free eBook.
