Internet marketing has gotten to be so complex that it isn’t just the advice that’s conflicting – sometimes it’s the advice about the advice you can’t be sure about. For all the articles and tips encouraging you to follow the established “best practices” in web design and Internet marketing, there is the occasional voice telling you to “break the rules” if you want to get real results.
Should you ever listen to those voices? And more to the point, is it ever a good idea to ignore good Internet marketing advice?
We won’t deny that some companies and marketers have done very, very well by ignoring conventional wisdom and following their own path. After all, it’s hard to stand out when you’re using the same techniques and ideas as everyone else. Still, you have to be very careful when going against the accepted grain of Internet marketing, because a lot of the so-called “rules” are there for a reason.
Here are a few good tips to help you know when it’s safe to color outside the lines with your Internet marketing plan:
You Have to Know the Rules Before You Can Break Them
Before you can go against all the rules of Internet marketing, it’s a good idea to know what they are in the first place, along with why they apply. This doesn’t mean you have to know everything about the way websites, search engines, and social media work, of course, but that you should have a good base of knowledge before you start making up your own guidelines.
Never Break From Internet Marketing Best Practices Without a Good Reason
Forging your own path is innovation, but doing it without any rhyme or reason is essentially leaving things to luck or chance. There are always exceptions to every rule, and times when you need to follow your instincts. Don’t pursue a new idea simply because you want to be different, though, because you may just end up making things harder in the long run.
Think of Your Audience First
The best reason to break a traditional rule of Internet marketing – or to decide to stick with them – is because it gives your potential customers more value or a better experience. In other words, put their wants and needs first, and let them be your guide. These are the buyers who are going to respond to your offers and keep you in business, so keeping them happy is the ultimate rule of Internet marketing.
Watch the Results of Unconventional Strategies Closely
If you decide to do something a little bit differently, keep a close eye on the results. It shouldn’t take too long to figure out whether your unconventional strategy is paying off or not.
Most of the time, you’re going to want to follow established Internet marketing advice because it’s going to give you the shortest path to the bottom-line results you’re looking for. Once in a while, though, breaking away from the herd and doing your own thing isn’t a bad idea… but only if you understand why you’re doing it and how it can help your company grow.
Your Internet Marketing Plan
The best Internet marketing plans are the ones designed specifically for your company. Why not meet with our team today and let us start working on a customized plan for your business and website? Call 630-551-0334 x1 to speak with an expert at Weblinx today.