Don’t Rely on Social Media and Google
Social media and Google can be powerful tools for businesses to reach their target audience. However, it’s risky to rely solely on these third-party platforms for your digital marketing efforts. What happens when a platform’s algorithm changes or social media sites adjust their terms of service? You could wake up one day and find out that your social media account has been banned, with no explanation as to why. Your business could lose all its traffic, leads, and sales. That’s why we encourage businesses to use platforms they control, such as a WordPress website and building an email list. These platforms give businesses more autonomy and control over their online presence. Read more to learn the importance of using platforms you control and why you shouldn’t rely solely on social media and Google.
Algorithm Changes Can Hurt Your Business
Algorithm changes can harm a business’s digital marketing efforts on a third-party platform. For instance, when Facebook lowered its organic reach, it became more difficult for businesses to reach their target audience without paying for advertising. Similarly, Google’s algorithm updates can push a business’s website down in search engine rankings. These changes can have a significant impact on your business’s visibility and bottom line.
Always be prepared, these huge corporations roll out updates more often than you may realize. Stay on the lookout for changes that could have a detrimental impact on your business. You shouldn’t be afraid to take advantage of social media but don’t let that become the only way your business can find customers.
You Have Limited Control on Third-Party Platforms
Third-party platforms give you limited control over your online presence. Websites like Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), can dictate what you can and can’t post. Like it or not, these platforms absolutely have a bias in the content they promote. This means the content you post could be hidden from your target audience. In some cases, social media platforms decide to enforce their rules by suspending or banning your business account. If your business relies solely on these platforms, then it could have massive repercussions.
However, if you have a WordPress website or a dedicated email list, you don’t have to worry. You have absolute control over what your readers see from your business.
You Own Your Website and Email List
With your own website, you have greater control than on platforms like social media sites or Google. This means you have full control over the design, content, and functionality of your site. Additionally, building an email list ensures that you have direct communication with your audience without the risk of a third-party platform meddling in. By having these platforms in place, you are less vulnerable to changes on these third-party platforms and their algorithms.
You Can Build Relationships and Trust With Your Audience
Social media and Google can be essential for driving traffic to your site, but they are not conducive to building relationships and trust with your audience. Those that find your business through social media likely discovered you through their algorithms display feed. This means that even if they decide to make a purchase, they might never hear from you or your business again. Email marketing and having your own website can work effectively in nurturing relationships and building trust with your audience. When you communicate with your audience through email, you’re not only building relationships but also keeping them informed about your brand and its products or services.
You Can Monetize Your Content More Effectively
Third-party platforms may allow you to monetize your content, but they still take a significant cut for their services. With a website, you can monetize your content more effectively without sharing the profits. By building a strong email list and website, businesses can generate more qualified leads more smoothly and more effectively monetize the content they create.
Final Thoughts
Even though social media and Google can be important tools for your business, it’s vital to remember that relying solely on these third-party platforms can be risky. Algorithm changes and shifts in terms of service can have a significant impact on your bottom line. That’s why it is crucial for businesses to have their own website and email list and use highly effective email marketing strategies. Having these platforms in place gives you more control over your online presence and makes it easier to build relationships and trust with your audience. Moreover, you can monetize your content effectively and have more flexibility in marketing your business. By using platforms you control, you’ll be sure to put your business on a more secure, sustainable footing.
