In July and August, I enjoy social get-togethers like backyard barbecues. A nice grilled burger and homemade potato salad just says ‘summer’ to me. And normally at these social events, people might start up a conversation and ask what it is I do.
When I tell people I’m a social media marketing consultant, they think of fun company posts on Instagram or the bright digital ads they pass by on a city freeway. For those who aren’t familiar with what a marketing consultant does, they see me as the “idea guy” who creates a message and aesthetic that brings more customers to a business. And that’s partially true. I do have to be creative at times, but much of my work involves research and reviewing Google Analytics. When a client hires me, my job is to research the entire layout of their company’s current marketing strategy. Like an architect, a marketing consultant is there to ensure the structure of the entire building is solid. Then they walk through the structure reviewing every detail to discover where upgrades are needed. Maybe the below-floor leaky plumbing is a wayward SEO strategy. The business is constantly pumping out new ads on social media, but the money is dripping out of the pipes with no results. In cases like this, the company could be targeting the wrong audience. Generational shifts happen over time, and business may not kept pace with a new buying generation’s desires.
It surprises people when they learn my job doesn’t involve the day-to-day work of writing up new campaigns and buying ads. Most companies already have an in-house team or contract out that work. They hire me to ensure their marketing dollars are being spent in the right place. And my work can put a company in a fresher, more lucrative direction within months.
Let’s team up and get your business on a strong SEO foundation.
When the marketing foundation is clear and stable, it’s easier to build your company brand on it. For example, I conduct a competitive analysis to discover new buyer personas. What are other companies doing to engage the right customers? And are they leaving open gaps where your business can gain an advantage? What is their brand positioning, SEO strategy, and customer experience? This research informs targeted changes for your company designed to increase your ROI and enhance your brand image.
But like architects, not all marketing consultants are the same. Some may specialize in one area while having only common knowledge in another. And that is what sets me apart. My background provides a broad understanding of digital media marketing. When I create a new marketing plan, every room in the ‘house’ is considered. My experience includes:
SEO Consultant: Ensuring businesses get the keywords and messaging right to reach the first page of search engines like Google and Bing.
Social Media Consultant: I look at how your company can sell more stuff via YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, and so on.
Google Ads Consultant: I’ve been working on Google Ads for years and have been publishing books to help others use it to their advantage.
In addition, I’m an adjunct faculty instructor teaching social media marketing classes via Stanford Continuing Studies. Which means I can get to the point quickly. And when you meet me at a barbecue, you’re going to get a thorough understanding of what I do as a marketing consultant!
