Small businesses require a lot of time and energy. For some, initial start-up costs can be a huge burden. As expenses mount up, asset allocation can cause a lot of stress. Every dollar spent has to be well worth the cost. Sometimes, key areas of a business can be under-funded. Mobile marketing budgets should not be one of them. Cost-effective mobile marketing strategies exist, and should be taken advantage of. One such strategy is to invest in developing a location-based application.
Location-based applications, or geo-location apps, give businesses an easy and cost-effective way to market themselves in the mobile community. By placing a geo-location app in the hands of customers, the power to assist in mobile marketing campaigns is just a click away. iPhone and Android apps, specifically built for geo-location, can greatly expand a business’s audience.
Some of the many benefits of location-based services are:
- Free word-of-mouth marketing via social networks.
- Build brand awareness and loyalty.
- Form a closer relationship with customers.
- Make it easy for prospects to pop in when nearby.
Here is an example of how geo-location apps work:
- A customer heads out to their favorite clothing store, restaurant, coffee shop, or retail establishment.
- When they arrive, they “check-in”.
- A notification gets sent out to the customer’s social network, such as Facebook or Twitter advocating the business.
- Friends in the area can join in on the fun and “check-in” when they arrive too, notifying more and more people.
- For every 10 “check-ins” and/or for every 5 recommendations, a business might offer a loyalty discount or coupon on the customer’s next purchase.
The overall goal of a location-based app is to form a stronger bond with customers and learn more about consumer habits. Fortunately, location-based apps can be utilized by any business. From clubs, to clothing stores, to restaurants and coffee shops, geo-location apps can be an effective and affordable part of any mobile marketing strategy.
To learn more about the possibilities iOS and Android app development can provide small businesses contact Mystic Media today.