Technology has changed business. In 2016, companies don’t just have to worry about what they offer physically, but also their digital presence.
The tech bubble has brought about all kinds of new businesses. New technology for smartphones and computers have changed how businesses operate in the new decade.
This has changed how companies must operate. There are now a number of new tools and platforms businesses now must make use of to compete.
But how do businesses keep up with this new, technology-rich era? Here are a few of the things they must consider.
Making The Most Of The Internet.
It has been commonplace for businesses to operate their own websites for around two decades now. However, new standards have been brought around that businesses need to keep up with.
Search engine optimization (SEO) has become an important part of keeping business websites up to scratch. This involves using targeted keywords and content to attract the right visitors.
Increasingly more people are using smartphones as a way to navigate the internet. This means websites must also make sure they are optimized for mobile, or offer a mobile service.
There are numerous other tools businesses use to keep up with the competition. Businesses often use the internet to track statistics and get new customers. Services like Saleshub offer sales enablement tools to businesses to improve their online offerings.
Keep Up With The Smartphone Crowd.
A Pew Research Centre survey recently found more Americans are relying on their smartphones for internet access. This is largely due to the fact smartphones are offering an easy, compact way for people to access the internet from anywhere.
This makes it increasingly vital for businesses to expand what they offer to the smartphone crowd. As previously mentioned, companies now have to optimize their services for mobile. Statistics have shown that 67% of smartphone users check prices online, and 40% make purchases. This number is likely to grow as smartphone usage becomes increasingly common.
This isn’t the only way businesses can use smartphones to their advantage. Many companies now produce their own ‘apps’ to reach out to their target audience. By putting their own software on Apple’s App Store and Google Play for Android, they can reach a wider market.
Some businesses might even take advantage of the popularity of current apps. For example, here’s some free ways businesses can use Pokémon GO to increase their visibility.
Keep Up With Social Media.
Today, a range of social networks are available both on computers and smartphones. This has become one of the most important things for businesses to keep up with.
Many consumers use social media channels such as Twitter to interact with companies. This can be used for feedback and complaints, and many users expect a response.
This has led many businesses to hire specialized social media experts. This goes to prove the importance of social media for business in 2016.
Some of the most popular social networks are Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Businesses are also starting to use networks like Instagram and Snapchat to reach an even wider audience.