Integrated Marketing Agency

 

Radio Revenue Corner

by Jim Seemiller

Interested in Gen Flex?

As a digital media company, our success at Radio Preferred, a division of  Edge Media   in radio marketing is dependent on us delivering innovative revenue producing ideas for radio stations utilizing all the new digital, integrated, interactive components available in the marketplace today.  We differ from other companies in this space because, although we use all the new interactive communications platforms, we still believe that radio MUST  be the core basis of any marketing proposal. We are in the business of offering our radio campaigns to build client business and that will always be our foundation. When radio dilutes their core by getting into Groupon, 1/2 price deals or the like, we have left our strength.  It not only confuses clients but also our own sales staffs. So, in this day when we want to chase all the in things, remember, radio is our CORE BUSINESS.

I have seen the term GEN FLEX appear more and more in today's marketplace. It is a great term in that it so aptly describes what we need to do to continue to grow our business. Gen Flex refers simply to the time that we are now living in.   One must as individual and as then corporately as companies be prepared to be flexible or you will not make the cut to the next level.  We must be the new generation of flexible thinkers and doers.  Society and technology changes and we must change with them. It is time to recognize that as Gen Flexer's, we need to embrace change, new ways to communicate, take risks and be prepared to grow by being flexible.

We speak with radio stations every day and we see a common thread to a lot of decison making or lack there of. A lot of folks are leary about moving fast to grab on to the real opportunities that exist in this Gen Flex society. They wait for someone else to try this or that and then they can blame any possible failure on the ones who have gone before. May I suggest, grab opportunities, run with them, if they don't work then go on to other things.

We recommend that you take a look at www.radiopreferred.com as a resource, providing tools that can add great revenue to your stations.  I encourage you to grab the opportunity, run with it, and success will be yours.

Radio Preferred is a division of Edge Media an interactive web agency that is committed to creating revenue producing platforms and digital solutions for broadcast companies.


 

 

Vickie Isaac, MEd.,
President- Edge Media, Adjunct Professor
The Relationship Between Good Leadership & Revenue


As President of Edge Media and an adjunct professor, I teach leadership and ethics courses, marketing and sales seminars, and interactive marketing workshops.  Over the years, it has become obvious to me how interwoven leadership and ethics are in the success of organizations, leaders, and marketing efforts.


Success in 2012 is directly related to the quality of your leadership, and the health of the organization you build. I am convinced that you can grow revenue through remarkable leadership.

There is so much to be said about leadership that equips and empowers people, including the valuable ability to help other people reach their maximum potential.  I would like to share a few thoughts as we head into 2012 regarding ways you, as leaders, can create a successful organization and bring out the best in your staff.

1) Leadership is about understanding motivation.  It's not about the most charismatic person in the room, or about the boss with the biggest stick.  Rather, leadership is about understanding that people are inherently motivated by more than the dollar bill.  The successful leader will understand what motivates his/her staff and connect motivation to practical sales objectives as a mean of growing revenue.

2) Leaders are learners.  The radio industry is anything but stagnant.  Technology is constantly changing the face of marketing, and a leader for the long haul must educate him/herself about new marketing channels and how to integrate them into the radio platform.  By leading in learning, a culture of innovation is created where ideas are embraced and new revenue streams created.

3) Leaders set and raise the bar.  Many radio sales people feel "beat up" by the constant ups and downs of the sales cycle. It is critical to move "sellers" to "expert marketing and and advertising consultants".  Providing marketing and sales training contributes to confident professionalism.  Embracing the role of radio marketing expert helps move sales people from going up and down with the numbers to experienced experts that can solve problems and create opportunities.

About Vickie Isaac, M.Ed.: Vickie has 30 years of radio sales, marketing, and interactive ad agency ownership. Vickie is also an adjunct professor teaching marketing, ethics, & leadership courses.

About Edge Media: Edge Media is a leading full service interactive advertising agency with a unique marketing process that gives our clients the EDGE over their competition. 

Edge Media offers creative, innovative, and turnkey revenue solutions to broadcast clients.  With over 50 years of combined radio experience, we know what it takes to generate sales.  Our radio revenue solutions give our clients the edge over their market competitors with programs that create high consumer & advertiser demand, and can't be replicated by the competition. 

About Radio Preferred: Radio Preferred specializes in cutting edge, creative, innovative, and turnkey revenue solutions to broadcast clients. With over 50 years of combined radio experience, we know what it takes to generate sales. Our radio revenue solutions give our clients the edge over their market competitors with programs that create high consumer & advertiser demand, and can't be replicated by the competition. Our proprietary solutions integrate radio with internet, mobile, social media, text messaging, and e-mail to deliver exceptional value and results for stations and their advertisers.

 

Since most of our daily work is related to helping radio stations increase revenue, we are asked a lot of interesting questions, some of which we will share with you.

WHAT IS RADIO'S JOB TODAY WITH ITS ADVERTISERS?

When you are making a presentation to a prospective client, the absolute value of our offers lies in our ability to CONNECT CONSUMERS WITH YOUR CLIENTS. Remember that you are EXPERT advertising and marketing consultants, you offer more than media purchasing - radio marketing is full service marketing. That is what we do, that is what we promise to deliver and how well we do that determines the success of the campaign. We also need to ENGAGE SHOPPERS, using our on air or our online products. We just don't deliver messages, we need to improve how we interact. We have seen www.radiopreferred.com offer the best way to accomplish that. Give it a read, it will do a great job for your stations.

ARE YELLOW PAGES REALLY DEAD?

Yes, and we recommend that you soon get into the directory style business to take advantage of the traffic you have. We have seen a few ideas out there that really do a good job of tieing in directory with offers and much more, and the leads are huge when you look at a year old Yellow pages.

HOW CAN WE USE QR CODES INSIDE OUR RADIO CAMPAIGN?

This is great thinking, this can be tied to in store signage, online banner ads on your sites and much more. This is a great tool to expand on your clients campaign.

WHERE DO I FIND NEW LEADS?

This is a question we get all the time. The answer, although unanswered at many radio outlets is not that difficult. A whole new lead source are those clients who do not have the budget to do effective radio on a constant basis. Your job is to bundle your products in a less expensive way to open up these doors.  One of the best at doing this is the Radio Preferred product that we discussed before, it is the answer to going after  a new market segment that was unreachable before. Let us show you how to get to this new group.  E-mail me and we can walk through a brief webinar so I can show you how.    jim@edgemedia.biz

HOW DO WE BEGIN CREATING NEW EVENTS FOR SPONSORSHIP DOLLARS?

We have created many online events that can create a new revenue streams, we offer internet marketing solutions while at the same time increasing listenership. We recommend that you contact Edge Media, the parent company of Radio Preferred, anda full service integrated marketing agency for some great event ideas with little or no costs.

Philadelphia Preferred welcomes Volpe Enterprises, a family owned, well established and reputable home improvements since 1970.  Volpe Enterprises is the Southeastern Pennsylvania & New Jersey area preferred provider of roofing, siding, windows, doors, and sunrooms.

The owner, Gary Volpe, has built Volpe Enterprises on the motto: Quality, Honesty, Integrity.   A detailed written guarantee is provided with every estimate and signed by Gary Volpe:

“It is my pledge to provide the best quality installation and customer service when your siding, windows, or roofing is installed or replaced by Volpe Enterprises, Inc.”

-Gary Volpe, President.

Be sure to check out the video on their website:  www.volpeenterprises.com

And... they offer no obligation consultations & estimates. 

Call (610) 539-6730

About Philadelphia Preferred:  Philadelphia Preferred is a searchable online business directory of premier Philadelphia businesses, services, lodging, food, and much more in the Philadelphia and Delaware Valley area. Local shoppers can rate these businesses so that the consumer can get ratings on any business in real time, 24/7/365.
 
What customers receive...
In addition to reviewing the individual ratings on specific Philadelphia businesses, will also receive great offers and discounts from all the merchants listed in the directory. The directory will also link shoppers to the actual business website for further information.

What advertisers receive...
The Philadelphia Preferred Marketing System was created to help today's retailers and merchants get a lot more bang for their advertising and marketing dollar. The principles of marketing success include high ad frequency within an affordable budget and that is exactly what Philadelphia Preferred delivers - maximize exposure at an extremely affordable price. The Philadelphia Preferred Marketing System is a complete marketing system that includes radio, internet, e-mail, social media, & text message marketing - all turnkey for the business owner and at an incredibly affordable price.  Contact Carol Cochran-Healey for advertising information at: 610-940-0990 x 36 or carolh@wfil.com.

Philadelphia Preferred is offered in Philadelphia by Salem Radio, including WFIL and WNTP radio, and in partnership with Edge Media.  Edge Media is a leading interactive web agency offering turnkey radio marketing solutions that generate substantial revenue for radio stations.  To find out more about Edge Media's Radio Preferred program, click here or contact Jim Seemiller at 602-943-2030 x 5, or jim@edgemedia.biz.

Radio Preferred is picking up steam in major markets around the country.  We welcomed Three Rivers Preferred serving the Pittsburgh metro area last week with a strong launch and immediate advertising sales.  We are building out Los Angeles Preferred as we speak, and quite excited for the launch there. 

The Preferred Radio Total Marketing System is a turnkey, no risk revenue generator for radio stations that is the only completely integrated marketing system of its' kind.  Preferred harnesses the power of radio, the internet, e-mail, social media, search engine optimization, video, and mobile marketing.   It is a product that offers tremendous value to the advertiser and the consumer as well.  

Markets are Arbitron DMA exclusive, and are being locked up quickly.  If you have not already done so, be sure you schedule your no obligation webinar today!  You don't want to miss this opportunity or have it fall into the hands of your competition!   Contact Jim Seemiller at jim@edgemedia.biz to set up your webinar.

About Us: Radio Preferred is a division of Edge Media, a leading digital media company with over fifty years of combined broadcast and interactive marketing experience offering radio marketing solutions and internet marketing solutions to broadcasters.  Our interactive web agency solutions are turnkey and fully integrated.

Welcome to Part 2 of the Search Engine Optimization Series!  By now you should have 25 keywords identified that best describe your business.   It is now time to put them to use!  They need to be used in multiple ways.

First, they need to be integrated into your website content.  Don't jam pack them in, but try to use them in ways that make sense, and in several places per page.  You won't get all of your keywords on the same page, so don't try.  Search engines look for relevant content, not just repetitious keywords.   For example, for Edge Media, we mention that we are a leading interactive agency several times in our blogs and social media.  We reference the fact that we offer bulk SMS services, that we are a mobile advertising agency, and we always include our business name and link back to our website. 

The keywords then need to be integrated into the code of your website in title tags, description tags, etc.  If you don't know how to do this, we can certainly help!  For example, the Edge Media website title tag for the home page will read "Edge Media, a Leading Interactive Agency" in the title code for the home page.

Next, as you are adding content on your social media sites, be sure to use your keywords in ways that make sense, and always link back to your website to the appropriate page.  Don't always link back to the home page, link to the page that is relevant to what you are writing about.  For example, we offer a number of webinars to various potential clients - businesses, radio stations, non-profits, etc.   As we write about these webinars in our blogs and social media, we reference the URL of the page that is appropriate.  Our recent radio revenue webinar series would be included in a blog and social media post as follows:  "Don't miss out on Edge Media's upcoming Radio Revenue Workshop Series!"

And finally, you need to be building the reputation of your company leadership, so be sure to include their name and a link back to the page on your website - most likely the About Us page.  This helps protect your company's reputation as well as build the professional profile of your company's leadership.  For example, if you Google Vickie Isaac Edge Media you will find that at least the first sixty listings around the company name and my name are all our listings/links.  I would use my name and then link back to the Edge Media About Us page.

That's all for this session - get busy with your keywords - happy optimizing!

About Edge Media - Edge Media is a leading interactive advertising agency located in Phoenix, AZ serving local and national clients.  We specialize in cutting edge strategies that deliver exceptional ROI for our clients, including mobile advertising agency solutions, SMS marketing software, interactive web agency solutions, and much more!

Lots of online growth experts will encourage blogging for name awareness, thought leadership, and oh yeah... lead generation...  How do you grow influence with blogging?  And... what in the world do you write about time after time to accomplish that purpose?

Great questions!  ChurchLink Communications and Edge Media we use keyword optimized blogging to do all of the above.  Properly connected, a keyword optimized blog is a lead generating engine that gives you top natural search rankings while positioning you as a thought leader in your field IF you have something relevant to say.

This brings us to the primary topic of this blog - CONTENT.  The first cardinal rule is that a credible blog is NOT a sales pitch.  Just as you get tired of people who always talk about themselves and how wonderful they are, an organization that does the same thing will not win friends or influence people....   :-)     What do you have to offer in that fills a legitimate need for your target audience?  At ChurchLink Communications and Edge Media, we believe that there are lots of ministries and churches out there who don't have the budget for expensive advertising agencies, yet genuinely need to know how to use the internet for outreach in order to grow.  As a leading Christian interactive agency, we understand how rapidly technology has changed, including the internet, social media, mobile advertising, etc., and we can provide some "how to" help in these arenas, as well as offer low cost solutions.  With this strategy, we connect the dots - thought leadership, valuable content, lead generation, and increase in position with the search engines.  

It is important to include keywords and phrases that people generally use when searching for your business.  The idea is to have new customers find you, not just customers who know your name.  So, you'll notice I've integrated terms like leading Christian interactive agency, Christian marketing company, and Christian agency, etc, that are all key search terms for us.  Integrating these key terms at appropriate densities increases the likelihood of search engines ranking your relevant, keyword enriched content.   I do recommend the keyword optimized system that we offer at ChurchLink Communications and Edge Media, as our software system tells us when we have integrated keywords at appropriate densities, and then notifies the search engines that new content is published.  It really is our fastest search engine optimization tool. 

     We have some low cost plans that include local search engine optimization, social media strategy, and blogging if you are interested.  If you don't have the budget for it, there are free blogsites like WordPress and Blogger that you can start with to get up and running, they just don't have the search engine optimization muscle that our software does. If you are interested in any of our small business toolkits, just e-mail us at info@churchlinkcommunications.com! 

  Lots of business growth experts will encourage blogging for name awareness, thought leadership, and oh yeah... lead generation...  How do you grow business with blogging?  And... what the heck can you write about time after time to accomplish that purpose?

  Great questions!  At Edge Media we use keyword optimized blogging to do all of the above.  Properly connected, a keyword optimized blog is simply a lead generating engine that gives you top natural search rankings while positioning you as a thought leader in your field IF you have something relevant to say.

  This brings us to the primary topic of this blog - CONTENT.  The first cardinal rule is that a credible blog is NOT a sales pitch.  Just as you get tired of people who always talk about themselves and how wonderful they are, a business that does the same thing will not win friends or influence people....   :-)     What do you have to offer in your industry that fills a legitimate need for your target audience?  At Edge Media, we believe that there are lots of businesses out there who don't have the budget for expensive advertising agencies, yet genuinely need to know how to market their products/services in order to grow their businesses.  As a leading interactive agency, we understand how rapidly technology has changed, including the internet, social media, mobile advertising, etc., and we can provide some "how to" help in these arenas, as well as offer low cost solutions for small to mid-size businesses.  With this strategy, we connect the dots - thought leadership, valuable content, lead generation, and increase in position with the search engines.  

   It is important to include keywords and phrases that people generally use when searching for your business.  The idea is to have new customers find you, not just customers who know your name.  So, you'll notice I've integrated terms like leading interactive agency, mobile advertising agency, advertising agencies Phoenix AZ, interactive web agency, etc, that are all key search terms for us.  Integrating these key terms at appropriate densities increases the likelihood of search engines ranking your relevant, keyword enriched content.   I do recommend the keyword optimized system that we offer at Edge Media, as our software system tells us when we have integrated keywords at appropriate densities, and then notifies the search engines that new content is published.  It really is our fastest search engine optimization tool. 

     We have some low cost small business plans that include local search engine optimization, social media strategy, and blogging if you are interested.  If you don't have the budget for it, there are free blogsites like WordPress and Blogger that you can start with to get up and running, they just don't have the search engine optimization muscle that our software does. If you are interested in any of our small business toolkits, just e-mail us at info@edgemedia.biz! 

Edge Media is pleased to introduce the Scottsdale Preferred Marketing System.  It is unique in its' integrated approach, harnessing the power of radio, the internet, social media, e-mail, and text messaging together to create a powerful and prestigious lead generator for businesses. 

Benefits to advertisers include the sheer reach at over 500,000 Scottsdale shoppers monthly, including exposure on high traffic website Scottsdale.com, and commercials on premier stations like KOOL and KTAR.  The tremendous exposure on the advertising system  is offered at one-tenth of the cost of purchasing each component separately, making high powered integrated marketing very affordable for local business. The system offers businesses recognition, with 24/7/365 customer voting online to determine top Preferred businesses in each category. Winning businesses are honored as the Scottsdale Preferred business in their category.  The reach of over half a million people monthly across multiple marketing channels for pennies on the dollar and the prestige of being Preferred is all turnkey for the business, leaving the business free to focus on serving the new customer.
 
The Scottsdale Preferred system was created as advertising veteran Jim Seemiller interacted with many locally owned businesses who experimented with a wide variety of advertising strategies to market their businesses and many experienced the  frustration and disappointment as hard earned dollars spent on expensive ad campaigns did not yield the hoped for return on investment.   Seemiller, VP of Business Development at locally owned Edge Media,  teamed up with Becky Kelley, Executive Director of the high traffic volume site Scottsdale.com to launch the Scottsdale Preferred marketing system, a veritable interactive marketing engine for local businesses.
 
Jim Seemiller noted the tremendous success of the Preferred system in other Arizona cities in helping to grow business for companies using this increased value added marketing plan. Seemiller states, "We fully expect that Scottsdale Preferred will bring even bigger results for participating companies as they look to grow their business. With partners like Scottsdale.com, the elite website for Scottsdale businesses and our radio partners, we think that we even have more to offer. I have not seen another advertising plan that delivers the results, the amount of ad value as Scottsdale Preferred does."
 
Becky Kelley is optimistic that the advertising system will help Scottsdale businesses grow, "We are excited to be working on a campaign of this caliber with Jim Seemiller and Edge Media.  Scottsdale.com was built as a community website and this Scottsdale Preferred marketing campaign is a perfect complement.  We are coupling an already popular local Scottsdale website with a proven, successful and innovative marketing system that is designed to grow Scottsdale merchant's business."
 
For more information about Scottsdale Preferred, contact Jim Seemiller, VP of Business Development at Edge Media.  Jim can be reached at 602-943-2030 x 5, and by e-mail at jim@edgemedia.biz.  Advertiser information is available at http://www.scottsdalepreferred.com.  
 
About Edge Media: Edge Media is a leading interactive advertising agency dedicated to providing its clients with cutting edge technology and innovative marketing strategies through a wide range of services that include consultation, market research, media planning/purchasing/creation, graphic and web design, SEO, internet advertising, public relations, organizational support, social media, and mobile marketing thru SMS marketing software that provides bulk SMS services. Our advertising and marketing consultants are experienced, creative marketers that help our clients' business to grow. Edge Media has offices in Phoenix, AZ and is reachable online at http://www.edgemedia.biz and 602-943-2030.

About Scottsdale.com: Scottsdale.com is the number one resource for both local residents and discriminating individuals who wish to visit the City of Scottsdale. Scottsdale.com is the ultimate destination website for visitors, but also a site that locals rely on for information on a daily basis. Scottsdale.com has offices in Scottsdale, AZ and is reachable online at http://www.scottsdale.com and info@scottsdale.com.

Many online marketing experts say that content is king when it comes to online influence.  How do you get content onto the web that attracts visitors and positively impacts website visitors and ultimately your bottom line?  There are a number of steps to take that can accomplish this goal.  This next educational series will tackle the steps to take to become a publisher of online content that has an impact.

At Edge Media and ChurchLink Communications, our FASTEST and most EFFICIENT tool is called keyword optimized blogging.  We use software to accomplish this and it is inexpensive and highly effective. You can do this without this software, it just won't be as effective or easy... Contact us for more info on this, as the software is as low as $360.00 per month.

The steps outlined are the same whether using software or not, so we will outline the steps here.  As a leading interactive agency, one of our first steps is ALWAYS to identify the keywords and phrases that are most important to our clients' products and services.  We then analyze them and choose keywords that we can WIN on, measuring competition and traffic on each keyword/phrase.  Once the keywords are chosen, interactive web agency strategy always includes integrating  keywords into content at appropriate densities on the primary website and into meta/data tags on the site to impact search engine results.

The next step is to set up the blog.  At Edge Media and ChurchLink Communications, we set up the design and install keyword optimized blogs for our clients.  If you are not using a keyword optimized blog, you can set up blogs on places like Blogger and WordPress.  The design should mirror the website as closely as possible, and also have links to/from the website.  It can also be added to primary navigation in the website.

After the blog is set up, it is time to craft the content.  We will take up content generation on the next blog, as there are important strategies in that regard.

About Edge Media and ChurchLink Communications: ChurchLink Communications is a leading Christian interactive agency located in Phoenix AZ serving local and national clients for over a decade.  As an Christian interactive agency, we specialize in cutting edge technologies that deliver exceptional results for our clients, the mobile web, mobile apps, social media, text messaging, and keyword optimized blogging. We also produce and buy radio and television as a Christian marketing company.

  Many online marketing experts say that content is king when it comes to online influence.  How do you get content onto the web that attracts visitors and positively impacts website visitors and ultimately your bottom line?  There are a number of steps to take that can accomplish this goal.  This next educational series will tackle the steps to take to become a publisher of online content that has an impact.

At Edge Media, our FASTEST and most EFFICIENT tool is called keyword optimized blogging.  We use software to accomplish this and it is inexpensive and highly effective. You can do this without this software, it just won't be as effective or easy... Contact us for more info on this, as the software is as low as $360.00 per month.

The steps outlined are the same whether using software or not, so we will outline the steps here.  As a leading interactive agency, one of our first steps is ALWAYS to identify the keywords and phrases that are most important to our clients' products and services.  We then analyze them and choose keywords that we can WIN on, measuring competition and traffic on each keyword/phrase.  Once the keywords are chosen,
interactive web agency strategy always includes integrating  keywords into content at appropriate densities on the primary website and into meta/data tags on the site to impact search engine results.

The next step is to set up the blog.  At Edge Media, we set up the design and install keyword optimized blogs for our clients.  If you are not using a keyword optimized blog, you can set up blogs on places like Blogger and WordPress.  The design should mirror the website as closely as possible, and also have links to/from the website.  It can also be added to primary navigation in the website.

After the blog is set up, it is time to craft the content.  We will take up content generation on the next blog, as there are important strategies in that regard.

About Edge Media: Edge Media is a leading interactive agency located in Phoenix AZ serving local and national clients for over a decade.  As an interactive web agency, we specialize in cutting edge technologies that deliver exceptional results for our clients, including SMS marketing software that has bulk SMS services capabilities, social media, and keyword optimized blogging. We also produce and buy radio and television as a media interactive agency.  Our marketing and advertising consultants are experienced industry leaders among marketing companies in Phoenix and advertising agencies in Phoenix AZ.

At our recent Navigating the New Business Economy Seminar, I presented a strong case for growing outreach through natural search and social media.  I also offered some very practical "how to" tips for the attendees.  I will outline those tips in a series of blog posts to help those new to online strategies get started.

First, let's start with the compelling evidence for why you MUST recognize the power of online marketing and why you SHOULD take advantage of it to grow your business...

So... Why Start Online?

• 80 - 90% of consumers use a search engine prior to purchase  (ComScore).

• Showing up on page one of search listings gets your organization in front of people who already know they need your product/service so you start with a warm lead, as compared to many other media channels.

• A click through to your website should be just as welcoming as walking through the doors of your brick and mortar business.

Other Reasons to Start Online...

• You need to OWN your industry’s online space (It’s better for you to get the web traffic than your competitor).

• You need to CONTROL your reputation (Your reputation is important, it is the perceived value of your organization).

• You need MORE website traffic to GROW your organization.

• You need to talk to your supporters.   Interactive marketing is very effective.

Right now, you need to go do your homework.   Go to Google Adwords and let it analyze your site to suggest keywords for the next steps we will take.  Stay tuned for next steps in the next blog titled Local Linking.

About Edge Media - Edge Media is a leading interactive advertising agency located in Phoenix AZ and specializing in cutting edge technologies that produce exceptional results for our clients.  As a mobile advertising agency we offer mobile websites, mobile apps, and SMS marketing software for our clients.  As an interactive web agency, we offer integrated strategic solutions to grow traffic using optimized blogging, social media, and linking strategies.

About ChurchLink Communications - ChurchLink is a division of Edge Media dedicated to serving the needs of ministries, non-profits, and churches.  As a full service Christian advertising agency, ChurchLink offers all of the expertise that Edge Media offers.  Our Christian interactive agency offers SMS marketing software so that churches, ministries, and non-profits can use our SMS marketing software (bulk text message services) for fundraising, action alerts, devotionals, and more!  The focus of our Christian agency is to equip our clients with every technological tool possible to effectively communicate the message of the Gospel!

At our recent Navigating the New Business Economy Seminar, I presented a strong case for growing business through natural search and social media.  I also offered some very practical "how to" tips for the attendees.  I will outline those tips in a series of blog posts to help those new to online strategies get started.

First, let's start with the compelling evidence for why you MUST recognize the power of online marketing and why you SHOULD absolutely take advantage of it to grow your business...

So... Why Start Online?

• 80 - 90% of consumers use a search engine prior to purchase  (ComScore).

• Showing up on page one of search listings gets your business in front of customers who already know they need your product/service so you start with a warm lead, as compared to many other media channels.

• A click through to your website should be just as welcoming as walking through the doors of your brick and mortar business.

Other Reasons to Start Online...

• You need to OWN your industry’s online space (It’s better for you to get the business than your competitor).

• You need to CONTROL your reputation (Your reputation is important, it is the perceived value of your business).

• You need MORE website traffic to GROW your business (Making money is nice).

• You need to talk to your customers.   Interactive marketing is very effective.

Right now, you need to go do your homework.   Go to Google Adwords and let it analyze your site to suggest keywords for the next steps we will take.  Stay tuned for next steps in the next blog titled Local Linking.

About Edge Media - Edge Media is a leading interactive advertising agency located in Phoenix AZ and specializing in cutting edge technologies that produce exceptional results for our clients.  As a mobile advertising agency we offer mobile websites, mobile apps, and SMS marketing software for our cients.  As an interactive web agency, we offer integrated strategic solutions to grow traffic using optimized blogging, social media, and linking strategies.

We are very pleased to offer Digital Force, a new product for broadcasters! The Digital Force product creates a unique, interactive, and turnkey technological solution that  meets several crucial needs for broadcasters including:

     1)  Creation of new revenue streams including the addition of text message ads and website sales.  Mobile messaging revenue is currently over $150 billion, and will reach $233 billion by 2014 (Portio Research, Feb. 2010).Total U.S. online retail sales are expected to grow at an average annual rate of 10% over the next four years, rising from $155 billion in 2009 to $250 billion in 2014, according to a Forrester Research study.

     2)  Increased audience interactivity through text messaging, social media, and blogging.  Over 80% of Americans have cell phones, text volume exceeded call volume in Q2 2009, and 50% will have web enabled phones by Q3 2011 (Source: Mobile Marketing Assoc.).  Social media main sites now boast over 600 million users, with 50% logging in daily, connecting to over 80 pages, groups, events, brands, and companies (Sources: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter), and over 126 million blogs on the Internet currently. B2B blogging increases leads by an average of 67% (Source: Inbound Marketing Lead Generation Report).

3)   Increased website traffic as a result of social linking, social media, optimized blogging, and mobile phone apps.  Over 41% of businesses using social media have acquired new customers through those channels (Source: Inbound Marketing Lead Generation Report).

4)   Adoption of emerging communications platforms are absolutely necessary to retain relevancy.  Mobile use is growing much more quickly than PCs or Internet services did Burson, 2010).

5)  Provides turnkey solution for broadcasters, including ease of use from a single platform, negating the need to hire additional staff.  We have developed an online content aggregator system that integrates text messaging, social media, and blogging sites with content update from one location.

    About Edge Media: Edge Media is a full service leading interactive advertising agency located in Phoenix AZ specializing in cutting edge technologies that deliver exceptional ROI for our clients. Our cutting edge technologies include SMS marketing software that allow our clients to deliver bulk SMS services that few marketing companies Phoenix is home to can offer. In addition to our text SMS messaging software, our mobile advertising agency offers mobile websites, mobile apps, and mobile internet advertising.

Technology is changing at a dizzying pace.  So rapidly in fact, that some days I don't want to read about the next technological breakthrough that has been adopted by marketers as a communications tool.  It is quite frankly just hard to keep up sometimes, and the rapid mobile evolution some days makes me feel like rearranged pond scum trying to get my head around it.  Other days I'm pretty excited about it, like today, where I recognize the incredible potential for effective communications!
 
Relevant communication methods are critical.  80% of Americans have mobile phones, and 50% will have smartphones by Q3 2011, continuing the rapid evolution in communication and media consumption. Mobile is way more than text message marketing.  Mobile channels include mobile websites, mobile social media,  apps, mobile listening and viewing, mobile advertising, mobile giving,  and more. 

Many businesses and non-profits are aware of changes in technology and wondering what to use and how to use it, but concerned about costs and manpower.  It is very understandable, as the processes of communication should not be the focus.  Therefore, the channels must be effective, efficient, and affordable.  How do you move from being overwhelmed to updated communications that work?

As a leading interactive advertising agency, we believe that it starts by understanding each different mobile channel, its individual value, and then the value of the sum of the parts working together, as well as an understanding of how they can work together in order to evaluate effectiveness of various channels, and effectively integrate mobile media into communications strategies.  Edge Media's  focus is to link the parts together so that as an  mobile advertising agency we are able to create connected communications systems so that our clients can quickly and  easily update information that flows across a variety of platforms, including mobile websites, blog sites, social media, and more.  Our system also creates the interactivity between text messaging and the mobile web, so we can instantaneously send out alerts, prayer requests, action items, and more from the touch of a mobile phone.   It is really exciting!

In my last Edge Media blog, I shared a social media tip.  Today, the tip is about the mobile web. For example, Google reports its mobile search volume has increased FIVE FOLD over the last two years!  When ESPN launched their mobile site, their overall visitors increased over 30%.  The plain truth is that more people are on the web on their web-enabled phones, and it is important to have a mobile website to make your site easier to view on the much smaller screens of a phone.  So, the mobile tip is to secure the .mobi (short for mobile) of your domain name - for example: www.edgemedia.mobi instead of .com.   There are free tools out there to convert a standard website to a mobile site without programming help.  Here is a link to a helpful site: http://www.tothepc.com/archives/5-ways-to-create-or-convert-into-mobile-phone-website/

I encourage you to mobilize your website to take advantage of the search volume of folks who are browsing using their mobile phone, but who won't stay on your site long if it it is hard to navigate.   More on mobile channels in the next blog!

About Edge Media:  Edge Media is a full service leading interactive agency that specializes in cutting edge technologies that deliver exceptional results for our clients.  Our cutting edge technologies include SMS marketing software to allow our clients to deliver bulk SMS services in their communications, and as a mobile advertising agency, create mobile websites, mobile apps, and integrate mobile with social media - all very exciting stuff!  If you want to talk about it, send us an e-mail at info@edgemedia.biz or call the offices at 602-943-2030.  Also, be sure to follow us:

               

Technology is changing at a dizzying pace.  So rapidly in fact, that some days I don't want to read about the next technological breakthrough that has been adopted by marketers as a communications tool.  It is quite frankly just hard to keep up sometimes, and the rapid mobile evolution some days makes me feel like rearranged pond scum.  Other days I'm pretty excited about it, like today, where I recognize the incredible potential for using technology to preach the Gospel, because I, for one, really know the truth - that the Creator brings much more order and creativity than evolution and pond scum ever could.  But I digress...

As messengers of the Gospel, relevant communication methods are critical.  80% of Americans have mobile phones, and 50% will have smartphones by Q3 2011, continuing the rapid evolution in communication and media consumption. Mobile is way more than text message marketing.  Mobile channels include mobile websites, mobile social media,  apps, mobile listening and viewing, mobile advertising, mobile giving,  and more. 

Many ministries, broadcasters, and churches are aware of changes in technology and wondering what to use and how to use it, but concerned about costs and manpower.  It is very understandable, as the focus of Christian ministry should be on communicating the Gospel, and the processes of communication should not be the focus.  Therefore, the channels must be effective, efficient, and affordable.  How do you move from being overwhelmed to updated communications that work?

As a Christian advertising agency, we believe that it starts by understanding each different mobile channel, its individual value, and then the value of the sum of the parts working together, as well as an understanding of how they can work together in order to evaluate effectiveness of various channels, and effectively integrate mobile media into communications strategies.  ChurchLink Communications's  focus is to link the parts together so that as a Christian interactive advertising agency we are able to create connected communications systems so that our clients can quickly and  easily update information that flows across a variety of platforms, including mobile websites, blog sites, social media, and more.  Our system also creates the interactivity between text messaging and the mobile web, so we can instantaneously send out alerts, prayer requests, action items, and more from the touch of a mobile phone.   It is really exciting!

In my last ChurchLink Communications blog, I shared a social media tip.  Today, the tip is about the mobile web. For example, Google reports its mobile search volume has increased FIVE FOLD over the last two years!  When ESPN launched their mobile site, their overall visitors increased over 30%.  The plain truth is that more people are on the web on their web-enabled phones, and it is important to have a mobile website to make your site easier to view on the much smaller screens of a phone.  So, the mobile tip is to secure the .mobi (short for mobile) of your domain name - for example: www.churchlinkcommunications.mobi instead of .com.   There are free tools out there to convert a standard website to a mobile site without programming help.  Here is a link to a helpful site: http://www.tothepc.com/archives/5-ways-to-create-or-convert-into-mobile-phone-website/
I encourage you to mobilize your website to take advantage of the search volume of folks who are browsing using their mobile phone, but who won't stay on your site long if it it is hard to navigate.   More on mobile channels in the next blog!

About ChurchLink Communications:  ChurchLink Communications is a division of Edge Media, a full service interactive advertising agency.  ChurchLink Communication's mission is to equip the Church with every technological tool available to effectively communicate the Gospel message.   Send us an e-mail at info@churchlinkcommunications.com or call the offices at 602-943-2030.  Also, be sure to follow us: 

I have used the line, "Don't Tweet Just to Hear Yourself Chirp" many times.  And there are as many "how to" guides on social media out there as there are social media marketing "gurus".   My take on this is similar to what my mother always said, "If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all", except I would revise that to say, "If you don't have something relevant or helpful to say, don't say anything at all."   Often late at night I will think, "Oh no!  I haven't blogged today!"  The truth is that by late at night, I have nothing intelligent left in my brain to say... 

In all seriousness, social media is a CONVERSATION, not a direct donor channel.  Certainly you should be engaging with people who are interested and should move from interested to a supporter.  The question is, what are you offering to help engage them?  In order to become involved in your non-profit, people have to first believe in you, and care about what you do.  When it comes to growing a donor base, this becomes even more critical, as lots of folks can like what you do, but WAAAYYYY  fewer folks will like you enough to crack open the ole' wallet on a regular basis.  Engage the heart, tell your story, use testimonials, pictures, video, and activate folks who are already supporters to be your brand messengers on social media sites, telling their stories.  Real life testimony is always extremely powerful and credible.   Now, you might be saying you already know all of this, but keep reading to find out how to tell your story more effectively...

At ChurchLink Communications, a division of Edge Media, we have been engaged in marketing for over a decade, and I personally have been engaged in marketing for three decades.  While our content is going to be different than a non-profit, I believe the principles still remain true. We have a lot of great lessons to share, and some of them learned the hard way!  I believe we should deliver thought leadership, relevant content, and helpful information to people who would benefit from our services.    While some advertising and marketing consultants balk at the idea of "giving away stuff for free", I say that business is earned, and it is earned by proving that you know what you are talking about.  The same is true of non-profits - how do you set yourself apart from other non-profits doing very important work?  What are you doing differently? More effectively using donor dollars?  Measuring impact?  Create thought leadership in your area of influence.

So... speaking of offering relevant content, its time time give you a hands on tool... As an interactive web agency, we have to create online marketing systems that are both effective and efficient.  Here is a great tip for social media management:  We link our social media content through a content management system.  When I post to Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc. I am actually only posting one time and the content management system takes that content and automatically flows it out over fifteen to twenty sites that are all linked together.  This saves significant time, increases exposure, and positively impacts search engine rankings if the posts are keyword optimized.  We use several content management systems, but a simple and free tool is Ping.  You can find it at Ping.fm and link your existing social media accounts together there.  

But remember before you press the send button...  Don't chirp to hear yourself Tweet!  

About ChurchLink Communications: ChurchLink Communications is a division of Edge Media whose mission is to empower the Church to deliver the Gospel message and fulfill the Great Commission using every communications tool available to reach to the far corners of the world in the most effective means possible.  ChurchLink offers a full array of products and services, including radio syndication, media research, media buying, market research, SMS marketing software for fundraising using text messaging, internet marketing strategies, and much more.  Check out our services here: www.churchlinkcommunications.com/clientservices.html

ChurchLink Communications is committed to serving ministries, non-profits, Christian broadcast, and Christian churches.

About Edge Media: Edge Media is a leading interactive advertising agency located in Phoenix AZ offering cutting edge marketing solutions that deliver exceptional results, including mobile advertising agency products such as SMS marketing software for bulk SMS service delivery, interactive web agency products including integrated social media strategies, and full service offerings including radio and television advertising, marketing research, marketing strategy, media research and media buying services, and more. 
 

   I have used the line, "Don't Tweet Just to Hear Yourself Chirp" many times.  And there are as many "how to" guides on social media out there as there are social media marketing "gurus".   My take on this is similar to what my mother always said, "If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all", except I would revise that to say, "If you don't have something relevant or helpful to say, don't say anything at all."   Often late at night I will think, "Oh no!  I haven't blogged today!"  The truth is that by late at night, I have nothing intelligent left in my brain to say... 

In all seriousness, social media is a CONVERSATION, not a direct sales channel.  Certainly you should be engaging with people who are interested and should move from interested to a customer or supporter.  The question is, what are you offering of value?  At Edge Media, we have been engaged in marketing for over a decade, and I personally have been engaged in marketing for three decades.  We have a lot of great lessons to share, and some of them learned the hard way!  I believe we should deliver thought leadership, relevant content, and helpful information to people who would benefit from our services.    While some advertising and marketing consultants balk at the idea of "giving away stuff for free", I say that business is earned, and it is earned by proving that you know what you are talking about.

So... speaking of offering relevant content... As an interactive web agency, we have to create online marketing systems that are both effective and efficient.  Here is a great tip for social media management:  We link our social media content through a content management system.  When I post to Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc. I am actually only posting one time and the content management system takes that content and automatically flows it out over fifteen to twenty sites that are all linked together.  This saves significant time, increases exposure, and positively impacts search engine rankings if the posts are keyword optimized.  We use several content management systems, but a simple and free tool is Ping.  You can find it at Ping.fm and link your existing social media accounts together there.  

But remember before you presss the send button...  Don't chirp to hear yourself Tweet!  

About Edge Media: Edge Media is a leading interactive advertising agency located in Phoenix AZ offering cutting edge marketing solutions that deliver exceptional results, including mobile advertising agency products such as SMS marketing software for bulk SMS service delivery, interactive web agency products including integrated social media strategies, and full service offerings including radio and television advertising, marketing research, marketing strategy, media research and media buying services, and more.