We have loved tapping into the experience and knowledge of our business advisors, who we have been working with very closely during this time and with the rollout of our grants program.
One major area of need for businesses at this time has been their digital and online presence, and we selected advisors which had areas of both common and differing focus and experience to provide our businesses with the best advice for their business.
Helen of Helen Lewis Communications shared her thoughts and expertise on how businesses can leverage social media to grow their business.
How long have you been in the digital space and what made you interested in this area?
I worked as a writer/producer in advertising agencies for many years back in the days of big TV and radio budgets, but over the years my work morphed into management and promotion of Main Streets/Retail Associations and for the past 15 or so years, social media for smaller direct clients.
There are a lot of different types of digital agencies - specialising in a variety of things. Where do you see your agency sitting in this ecosystem, and what are your areas of specialty?
I'd classify myself as a micro business because it's just me! I specialise in marketing advice and social media management for small businesses who know it's important, but just don't have the time, the want, or the experience, to manage it themselves (and who don't have a big budget!).
What are the main issues you see coming up time and time again for your business clients in the digital space?
Measuring a return on the investment, staying current, relevant and appealing to their market in what's become a very congested space.
One important factor in business is knowing who is a good fit for your business - those people who you work best with and who you can help the most. Who do you feel your agency is able to work best with and help the most?
I think I work best with very small businesses, generally in retail or hospitality, who take an interest in their socials, but who are happy (after thorough and ongoing briefings and liaison) are happy to let me run with it. I am able to take pretty good photos, and operate from a home office in Henley Beach, so ideally suited to assist businesses in the Charles Sturt Area.
What do you see as the biggest upcoming opportunities in the digital space?
Those who persist and remain consistent will benefit. Finding the right platform for your business.
If there was one key message you wanted to give business owners, what would that be?
Just one??? Most digital platforms are two-way communications streets not set a forget scenario - it's important to monitor and respond. Grammar and spelling ARE important. Just because your receptionist or sales assistant spends a lot of time on Facebook, doesn't mean he/she will be good at managing your digital marketing. Be patient and persistent.
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Emma Grivell
Business Engagement Advisor - Urban Projects
E: egrivell@charlessturt.sa.gov.au