How To Build an Online Presence For Your Local Business

Posted on April 26, 2023May 2, 2023 by Matt Tompkins

Here’s How You Can Build an Online Presence For Your Business

As a business owner, I understand the pressure that comes with marketing. Today I’ll share some of the strategies we’ve used to build an online presence for local businesses in Nebraska and beyond our fair state.

I believe that every business deserves marketing that is affordable and effective. That’s why I founded Two Brothers Creative. Over the past 18 years, my brother and I have made it our mission to help businesses get the affordable and effective marketing they deserve.

Why Building an Online Presence Matters

In today’s digital age, potential customers search online for products and services before making a decision.

A strong online presence helps increase your visibility and attract more customers. Here’s how you can start building an online presence and grow your small business.

Claim Your Google My Business Listing

One of the first steps is to claim your Google My Business listing.

This free tool allows you to share essential business information with potential customers, like your location, hours, and phone number. It also helps improve your search engine optimization (SEO) and makes it easier for customers to find you online.

Create a User-Friendly Website

A high-quality website is crucial for any business.

It’s the first place people go to learn about your offerings. Make sure your website is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and contains relevant information. Don’t forget to pay attention to SEO by using keywords related to your products or services.

Build Your Social Media Presence

Creating social media accounts is another essential marketing strategy.

Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter help you engage with customers and showcase your brand’s personality.

Share updates, promotions, and even behind-the-scenes content to connect with your audience on a personal level.

Grow Your Email List

Email marketing is still one of the most effective ways to reach customers.

Start building an email list by offering incentives, like discounts or exclusive content, in exchange for signing up. You can also send regular newsletters to keep subscribers informed and engaged with your business.

Leverage Local Partnerships

Partner with other local businesses to strengthen your online presence.

Share each other’s content, collaborate on promotions, or co-host events. By working together, you can expand your reach and introduce your business to new audiences.

Engage in Content Marketing

High-quality content marketing helps establish your business as an authority in your field.

Write informative articles, create engaging videos, or host webinars to share your expertise. Guest posts on other reputable websites can boost your online presence and attract more potential customers.

Harness the Power of Podcasting

Podcasting is a fantastic way to connect with your audience and share your expertise. By creating a podcast, you can provide valuable content while giving your local business a unique voice in the community.

Why Podcasting Matters to Build an Online Presence

Podcasts are becoming increasingly popular, with millions of listeners tuning in daily.

They offer a convenient way for people to consume content while commuting, working out, or doing chores. By starting a podcast, you can tap into this growing audience and strengthen your online presence.

Story Time: A Podcasting Success Story

We worked with a local gym owner who wanted to build an online presence and engage with potential customers.

They started a podcast about fitness tips, nutrition advice, and interviewing local athletes—including a rather talkative parrot who managed to complete a 5k. I’m serious.

The podcast quickly gained traction and attracted new members to the gym, some of whom admitted to joining just to see if the parrot would make a guest appearance.

By adding a podcast with a touch of humor to their marketing strategies, they were able to reach a wider audience and establish their gym as an authority (and a fun place) in the fitness world.

Invest in Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

SEO helps your website rank higher in search results, making it easier for customers to find you.

Optimize your website with relevant keywords, quality content, and a solid linking strategy. Remember, SEO is an ongoing process that requires constant adjustments and monitoring.

Story Time: Build an Online Presence and Finding a Muffin Mascot

When we started working with a local bakery, they had a small social media following and no website. Their claim to fame? A unique blueberry muffin recipe that was the talk of the town.

However, their digital presence was as tiny as the bakery’s secret ingredient: mini chocolate chips!

We helped them create a user-friendly website, set up their Google My Business listing, and grow their social media accounts.

To generate buzz, we decided to have a little fun and create a mascot for the bakery: “Chip,” the lovable blueberry-chocolate-chip muffin.

Chip’s adventures were documented on social media, from saving the day as a dessert superhero to attending local events. The bakery’s followers couldn’t get enough of Chip’s antics, and the hashtag #WheresChip became a local sensation.

Within a few months, their online presence had significantly improved, and they saw a noticeable increase in foot traffic and sales. The bakery even started selling Chip-themed merchandise, turning their tiny secret ingredient into a big success story.

Build an Online Presence: Take Action Today

Taking the necessary steps to establish your online presence and promote your business is only the beginning. There are always inspirations, innovations, trends, and changes to be aware of.

As you continue on your journey, it’s important to remain creative, ambitious, and courageous; if done right, these actions can expand your reach exponentially.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed while striving towards successful business endeavors; however, understanding the realities of time investments and working around them can ensure that you stay on the right path.

Don’t wait any longer! Take action today and make progress toward achieving your business goals.

Podcasts: What You Need To Boost Your SEO

Posted on April 26, 2023April 26, 2023 by Julia Genoves

Podcasts Are What You Need To Boost Your SEO

With 18 years of experience committed to helping businesses get the bang for their buck and providing marketing solutions (like podcasts and SEO strategies), I’ve seen marketing trends come and go. However, podcasting is the most powerful tool I’ve discovered.

If you’re a Nebraska business or marketing professional looking to level up your SEO, then podcasting could be your secret weapon for success.

The Power of Podcasts

The podcasting world has exploded in recent years, becoming a go-to source of information for countless people since they are easy to consume on the go, making them perfect for busy users. The best part is that podcasts can significantly boost your digital marketing efforts, particularly for Search Engine Optimization (SEO).

To harness the power of podcasts for your business, it’s essential to understand the ways they can contribute to your digital marketing and SEO efforts.

1. Building Authority and Trust

Podcasts can help you establish yourself as an expert in your industry.

By sharing valuable insights, interviewing other professionals, and providing useful tips, you’ll build credibility with your audience.

This trust translates into a stronger brand presence, increased customer loyalty, and a higher likelihood that your content will be shared and linked to by others.

2. Expanding Your Reach with podcasts

Many people prefer listening to podcasts over reading articles, so by creating content in this format; you’re catering to their preferences and exposing your business to a whole new audience.

Additionally, podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts or Spotify can further expand your reach, putting your content in front of potential customers who might not have found you otherwise.

3. Networking Opportunities

Creating a podcast can open doors to networking opportunities within your industry.

By inviting guests to be on your show, you’ll build relationships with other professionals, which can lead to partnerships, collaborations, or even referrals.

These connections can be invaluable for your business and help you reach new heights in your digital marketing efforts.

4. Easy Repurposing of Content

Podcasts can be an excellent source of content for repurposing.

You can turn podcast episodes into blog posts, social media updates, or even video content. This not only saves you time but also ensures that you’re maximizing the value of your content creation efforts.

Plus, repurposing content across various channels can improve your SEO, as it increases the chances of your content being discovered and shared by a wider audience.

5. Strengthening Your Brand Voice with Podcasts

Podcasting allows you to communicate with your audience in a more personal and authentic way by shining through your tone, voice, and personality.

By being genuine and relatable, you’ll create a stronger connection with your audience, fostering loyalty and encouraging them to share your content with others.

6. Monetization Opportunities from Podcasts

While not the primary focus for most businesses, podcasts can present monetization opportunities.

Through sponsorships, advertising, or even paid subscriptions, you can generate additional revenue to support your business.

This can be an added bonus to the already powerful SEO benefits that podcasts offer.

7. Strengthening Local Ties

As a Nebraska-based business, creating a podcast that specifically caters to your local audience can be highly beneficial.

By discussing local issues, featuring Nebraskans, and exploring topics relevant to your community, you’ll create a strong connection with your target market.

This local focus can help drive traffic to your website and improve your local search engine rankings.

Podcasts Matter for SEO

Here are my main reasons why podcasts matter for SEO:

Content Variety: Search engines love diverse content. By adding podcasts to your existing mix of blog posts, articles, and social media updates, you’ll create a richer experience for your audience and catch Google’s attention.
Increased Engagement: Podcasts keep people on your site longer, which signals to search engines that your content is valuable. This can improve your rankings in search results.
Backlinks: When others share your podcast episodes, you’ll earn valuable backlinks, another key SEO factor.

Incorporating Podcasts into Your Digital Marketing Strategy

To make the most of podcasts for your Nebraska business, follow these steps:

1. Plan Your Content

Before jumping into podcasting, take the time to plan your content. Consider your target audience and what topics would be most relevant to them.

As a Nebraska-based business, you might focus on local issues, industry trends, or share stories from fellow business owners in the area.

2. Invest in Quality Production

While it’s possible to create a podcast with minimal equipment, investing in quality audio gear can make a difference. Good audio quality reflects well on your brand and keeps listeners engaged.

Contact Two Brothers Creative if you need help with your podcast production

3. Optimize for SEO

Don’t forget to optimize your podcast for SEO.

This means incorporating your target keywords (like “digital marketing,” “business owners,” and “social media”) into your episode titles, descriptions, and show notes.

Transcribing episodes can also improve Search Engine Optimization, making it easier for search engines to index your content.

4. Promote Your Podcast

Share your podcast on your website and social media channels.

Encourage listeners to leave reviews and ratings, which can help your podcast gain visibility on platforms like Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

5. Track Your Results

Monitor your podcast’s performance to see how it impacts your SEO. Keep an eye on your website traffic, search rankings, and backlinks to measure success.

Story Time

At Two Brothers Creative, my brother and I decided to launch our own podcast, sharing marketing tips and interviewing local Nebraska business owners.

One memorable episode featured a local farmer who successfully used social media to promote his farm-to-table restaurant.

After we published the episode, we saw a noticeable uptick in website traffic and an increase in our search engine rankings.

The podcast generated buzz, and people were talking about it on social media, resulting in valuable backlinks. This real-life example shows the power of podcasting for SEO in local businesses.

Unlock the SEO Potential of Podcasts

Podcasts are more than just a trendy form of content; they are a powerful tool for Nebraska business owners and marketing professionals looking to enhance their SEO efforts.

By creating engaging content, optimizing it for search engines, and promoting it effectively, you’ll be well on your way to dominating the digital marketing landscape.

Remember, the key to success with podcasts is consistency and quality.

Keep producing valuable content that resonates with your target audience, and you’ll soon see the benefits in your SEO performance.

Looking to incorporate podcasts into your digital marketing strategy and grow your SEO results? Embrace the power of podcasts and watch your digital marketing efforts soar to new heights.

Book a FREE strategy call today.

Podcast Marketing Strategy: How To Grow Your Audience

Posted on April 26, 2023April 26, 2023 by Julia Genoves

Podcast Marketing: How To Grow Your Audience

Are you looking for ways to get more people to listen to your show? Then you probably need a Podcast Marketing Strategy.

After I first started my podcast journey, I realized that growing an audience wasn’t as easy as I thought. I made countless mistakes, and it took me a while to learn the ropes.

That’s why I decided to write this blog post, to share my knowledge and experience with fellow podcasters and help you avoid the same pitfalls I encountered.

Let’s take a look at some powerful podcast marketing strategies that will help level up your listenership game.

The Foundation: Know Your Target Audience

Before diving into any marketing strategies, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your target audience.

Who are they? What are their interests? Why would they listen to your podcast?

To better understand your audience, consider creating listener personas.

Listener personas are fictional representations of your ideal listeners, including demographics, interests, and preferences. By focusing on these personas, you’ll be able to tailor your podcast and marketing efforts to their needs, increasing the chances of attracting and retaining loyal listeners.

Your Podcast’s Home: Create a Website for Your Podcast

Having a website for your podcast is crucial for several reasons.

First, it gives your podcast a central hub where listeners can find all your episodes, show notes, and additional resources.

Second, it helps with Search Engine Optimization (SEO), making it easier for potential listeners to discover your podcast when they search for relevant topics online.

When creating your website, make sure it is user-friendly and visually appealing. Include an easy-to-use media player for streaming your episodes, and make sure your show notes are well-organized and easily accessible.

Additionally, integrate an email signup form to collect subscribers for future updates and marketing campaigns.

Optimizing Your Podcast Marketing: SEO and Episode Titles

One of the most overlooked aspects of podcast marketing is optimizing your podcast for search engines.

To improve your podcast SEO, start by crafting descriptive and engaging episode titles. This will not only help listeners understand what your episodes are about, but it will also make it more likely for your podcast to appear in relevant search results.

In addition to optimizing your episode titles, include relevant keywords in your show notes and website content. Be careful not to overdo it, as search engines may penalize you for keyword stuffing.

Focus on naturally integrating keywords into your content to improve discoverability without sacrificing readability.

Promote Your Podcast on Social Media Platforms

Social media is a great way to connect with your target audience and promote your podcast.

Share your episodes across various social media channels, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Tailor your promotional content to each platform’s specific audience and format to maximize engagement.

When sharing your podcast on social media, don’t just post a link and call it a day. Instead, include captivating captions, images, and teasers that entice people to click and listen. Engage with your followers by responding to comments and questions, and encourage them to share your content with their networks.

Remember that consistency is key. Develop a social media posting schedule and stick to it to keep your audience engaged and informed about your latest episodes.

The Power of Collaboration for Podcast Marketing: Guest Appearances

Collaborating with other podcasters or influencers in your niche can significantly expand your reach and grow your audience.

Guest appearances on other podcasts and inviting guests on your show can introduce you to new listeners who might be interested in your content.

When reaching out to potential guests or hosts, be genuine and explain how your collaboration can benefit both parties. Make sure to research and select guests who are relevant to your target audience and bring value to your listeners.

Once the episode goes live, promote it across your social media channels and encourage your guest to do the same. This cross-promotion exposes your podcast to a new listener segment.

Get Your Podcast Listed on Podcast Apps

To make it easy for potential listeners to find your podcast, ensure it’s listed on popular podcast apps, such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher. Each app has its submission process and requirements, so make sure to follow their guidelines for a smooth listing experience.

Being listed on these platforms increases your podcast’s visibility and accessibility, as many podcast listeners rely on these apps for content discovery. Regularly check your podcast listings and update them as needed to keep your information accurate and up to date.

Leverage Your Show Notes for Promotion and Engagement

Show notes are a valuable resource for both listeners and search engines. Well-crafted show notes can improve your podcast’s SEO, help listeners easily navigate your content, and provide additional value by sharing links, resources, and key takeaways.

To make the most of your show notes, follow these best practices:

Write a brief summary of the episode that highlights the main points.
Include timestamps for key moments or topics discussed in the episode.
Add relevant links to resources, tools, or references mentioned in the episode.
Use bullet points, subheadings, and short paragraphs to make your show notes easy to skim and read.
Integrate your target keywords naturally within the show notes.

By providing informative and well-structured show notes, you’ll offer your listeners added value and improve your podcast’s online discoverability.

Engage Your Listeners and Encourage Reviews

Building a loyal and engaged audience is essential for growing your podcast.

Encourage your listeners to leave reviews on podcast platforms, as this helps boost your podcast’s rankings and increases the chances of new listeners discovering your content.

In addition to asking for reviews, create opportunities for listener engagement by encouraging them to submit questions, share feedback, or participate in discussions on your social media channels or podcast website. By fostering a sense of community, you’ll strengthen your relationship with your audience and keep them coming back for more.

My Personal Success Story: Building My Podcast Marketing Strategy

I remember when my podcast (Midwest Mindset) was struggling to gain traction. The hours of creative work, the bursting ideas, and the conversations—it felt like it was going nowhere because I didn´t have an effective marketing strategy in place.

But by implementing these podcast marketing strategies steps, I was able to steadily grow my audience and turn my passion project into a thriving community.

One particular success story stands out:

I collaborated with a well-known influencer in my niche, and our combined promotional efforts resulted in a significant spike in my listener base.

So, fellow podcasters, take it from someone who’s been there: with a little patience and persistence, you can grow your podcast audience and make your mark in the podcasting world.

Monitor Your Progress: Analyze and Optimize Your Podcast Marketing

As you implement these podcast marketing strategies, it’s essential to track your progress and analyze the results. Use analytics tools like Google Analytics, podcast hosting platform insights, and social media analytics to monitor your podcast’s growth and engagement.

Keep an eye on key metrics such as:

Number of listens and downloads
Listener demographics and geographic data
Website traffic and visitor behavior
Social media engagement and growth
Listener reviews and ratings

By evaluating these metrics, you can identify what’s working and what needs improvement.

Continuously optimize your marketing efforts based on this data to ensure that you’re making the most of your resources and effectively growing your podcast.

Experiment with Different Marketing Channels

While the strategies outlined in this blog post are tried and true, it’s essential to stay open to new marketing opportunities and channels. As the podcasting landscape evolves, new platforms and promotional techniques may emerge that can help you reach a broader audience.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different marketing channels and tactics, such as:

Paid advertising on social media platforms or podcast directories
Content marketing through guest blogging, video content, or infographics
Networking at podcast conferences or industry events
Collaborating with non-profit organizations or brands that align with your podcast’s values

By staying curious and adaptable, you’ll be better equipped to capitalize on new opportunities and maintain your podcast’s growth momentum.

Final Thoughts: Start Your Own Podcast Marketing Strategy

Growing a podcast audience requires patience, dedication, and strategic marketing efforts. As someone who has walked this path before, I can attest that the journey is filled with challenges and learning experiences. But with the right mindset and the strategies outlined in this blog post, you’ll be well on your way to podcast success.

Remember to always stay true to your passion and your audience. Focus on creating valuable, engaging content and promoting it effectively using the tactics discussed here. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help, learn from your mistakes, and grow along the way.

So, fellow podcasters, it’s time to take your show to the next level with a Podcast Marketing Strategy. Need some help? We are here to answer all of your podcast-related questions.

Podcast: Why Your Marketing Company Needs One Now

Posted on April 26, 2023 by Julia Genoves

Why Your Marketing Company Needs a Podcast Now

As a marketing professional, you want to cultivate an audience that’s engaged with your brand and loves your content. And one of the smartest ways to do that is by creating a podcast.

By embracing podcasting as part of your marketing strategy, you can connect directly with listeners in a deep conversation.

Whether you’re looking to drive lead generation or build relationships with potential customers, there are endless possibilities for using podcasts as part of your personalized approach to marketing.

Why-Your-Marketing-Company-Needs-a-Podcast-Now.

Build Brand Awareness with Podcasts

When I first discovered podcasts, I was hooked. I mean, HOOKED. I listened to them on my daily commute, during workouts, and even while cooking dinner.

As a marketing dude, it didn’t take long for me to put one and one together and realize the massive potential of podcasting for marketing companies and for our clients; for example, podcasts are a great way to build brand awareness.

When you create high-quality, engaging content, it reaches a wide range of podcast listeners. These listeners can become potential customers, helping your marketing efforts hit the target audience.

I remember when I first started our marketing podcast, the Midwest Mindset, I was amazed at how quickly I gained a loyal following. It felt incredible knowing that people were excited to tune in and learn from my experiences.

The Benefits of Podcasting

Podcasts offer all sorts of unique benefits. For one, they allow for deeper connections with their audience. Listening to someone’s voice creates a sense of intimacy that’s hard to replicate in other media.

Moreover, podcasts are easily consumed on the go, making them accessible to busy people. I’ve had listeners tell me they look forward to their commute just to catch the latest podcast episode. This accessibility helps you reach a wider audience and increase conversion rates.

Getting Started with Podcast Hosting

Starting a marketing podcast may seem daunting, but it’s easier than you think. All you need is a good idea, some basic recording equipment, and a podcast hosting platform.

The podcast hosting service will store your episodes and make them available to listeners through various platforms, like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

In my early days of podcasting, I was nervous about getting everything right. But once I got the hang of it, I saw how valuable it was for my marketing efforts.

Create Content that Resonates

To create content that truly resonates with your audience, focus on providing valuable information and engaging storytelling. Share personal anecdotes and insights to humanize your brand and strengthen connections with your listeners.

A memorable moment for me was when I shared the story of my first marketing campaign failure. I was amazed at the feedback I received – listeners appreciated my honesty and vulnerability, which made them feel more connected to me and my brand.

The Power of Podcast Ads

Podcast ads are an effective marketing tool that can boost conversion rates. Since podcasts offer a captive audience, ads within a podcast episode can generate high engagement. Plus, listeners are more likely to trust ads from a host they admire.

In my own podcast, I’ve found that including ads for products or services, I genuinely believe in creates an authentic experience for my audience and leads to better results.

Leveraging Social Media Channels

Don’t forget to promote your podcast through your social media channels. Share episode snippets, quotes, and behind-the-scenes content to pique your audience’s interest and encourage them to tune in. This can help you reach a larger audience and create more potential customers.

I’ve used social media to build anticipation for upcoming episodes and found it to be a powerful marketing tool.

Start Your Podcast Now

Podcasts are here to stay, and if you position yourself correctly now, you can witness long-term success for your business by reaching a whole new level of marketing potential.

So, take it from someone who’s been there, dive into the world of podcasting, and watch your marketing success soar.

As a marketing guy, I can’t stress enough the importance of podcasting for marketing companies. Today, podcasts are an essential part of any digital marketing strategy.

There’s still so much potential to be explored, and with the right talent, technology, data, and creative flair, you could take podcasting to heights never seen before.

So why wait any longer? Get started today on your podcast journey, and make sure that your business is at the forefront of the industry.

Video Marketing: The Expert Secrets To Success

Posted on April 25, 2023May 19, 2023 by Julia Genoves

The Expert Secrets To Video Marketing Success

Video Marketing is changing how businesses approach their online presence and is why your business should too. The truth is that Facebook and Instagram are video platforms as much as TikTok and YouTube, which is why today, video-based marketing is the most effective tool to grow your business online.

In this Midwest Mindset (The Omaha Podcast) episode, we’re joined by Walt Sanders and Michael Murphy of Omaha’s WMK Media to show you how to use video for your business success.

Why Video Marketing?

Read the full transcript

Video is now the primary way people like to consume information and the most effective way to reach a wider audience. As Matt Tompkins said: “video-based marketing is the way of the future; in fact, it is happening now.”

So, to dominate our marketing game, we should dominate video.

The Vertical Video

But how did we get here? When did video become so crucial? To answer this question, we must travel way back in time… to the rise of Snapchat. Snapchat team knew that only around 15% of users took the time to turn their phone horizontally to watch a video; that is why they went with vertical video format, as they take up more space on the user’s device, ensuring 100% of their attention.

Tiktoks, Youtube Shorts, and Reels are today’s most consumed forms of media thanks to this vertical nature. If you want your content marketing efforts to stand out, you must ALWAYS include vertical base videos to be discovered online.

Video Marketing Format

So, if vertical videos are THE way to go, can one forget all about horizontal videos? Well, the answer is no.

A good Video Marketing strategy includes both long horizontal videos and short vertical content.

Horizontal long-form videos with meaty content can educate your audience and build trust in your brand. These videos will position your business as a leader and expert in your field.

Meanwhile, short vertical videos will help spread the word about your brand far and wide, as they’re easier to share on social media platforms like YouTube, Tik Tok or Instagram. These are the type of videos that will get your audience hooked.

By combining long and short-form content, you can create a balanced approach that appeals to new potential audiences and your existing audience.

Remember: you are not making a sales pitch; you are positioning yourself as a leader in the industry with your knowledge: you are the expert.

How Often Should I Post?

The online and video marketing world is only growing with content daily, so you must post videos constantly and follow your field’s trends.

There is no point in posting once a week or three times a month. If you want your business to reach a wider audience, you need at least five video posts a week for your marketing strategy to succeed.

Make a habit of posting vertical videos once a day, Monday to Friday.

Think it is too much? The reality is that the algorithms get smarter each day, and it decides where and how many times to show your video without no one getting spammed, so don’t worry; let the algorithm do its thing and distribute your videos.

First Impression Matter In Video Content Marketing

They say love comes from the eyes, and in video content, this couldn’t be more true. First impressions matter in video content marketing, which is why the quality of your video needs to be top-notch.

Viewers are more likely to trust a professional-looking video that’s well-lit and has excellent sound and visuals, so try to invest in good-quality equipment or get help from someone that offers video service, like our friends at WMK Media

PRO TIP:
Having at least 3 distinct video styles can help people find and distinguish your brand. Trying out different styles lets you see which works best for your business, so you can focus on the ones that get the most engagement.

Tags And Thumbnails Matter

Whoever said that tag no longer matters was completely off! Tags are strategic keywords that help your content get categorized and found by online users.

So don’t forget to use tags; this way, you are telling the algorithm what your content is about so it can show it to relevant people.

Don’t tag your content with trending topics if they aren’t related to your video. This will tell your audience you are misleading and won’t help reach a wider audience.

Your title and meta description are essential, so make them match your content and include keywords.

Also, the way you title your video file matters, so use your keywords here, too; even though your viewers won’t see the file name, their algorithm will.

Thumbnail texts and images are as crucial as written-down text. Try to make your thumbnail picture illustrate your video content, use close-to-the-face shots, show emotions, and avoid using too much text.

How Long Should My Videos Be?

There is no specific answer to how long your videos should be; the length depends on the type of content you want to make. But these are WMK media and Matt’s golden rules:

The 5-second rule: you have 5 seconds to attract your viewer; in these first seconds, you need to have anchor quality content that will make your audience want to stay. Finish with a Call To Action (CTA), like subscribing to the channel, following on social media, or leaving a like.
The 5-minute rule: By creating a quick 5-minute talking-to-the-camera video with valuable insights, you’ll have enough material for a week of posts. Create short clips from your original 5-minute video to share on social media. This will engage your audience and show your expertise.

Video Marketing Strategy

When it comes to video content marketing, having a strategy is key. Taking the time to develop a 30-day plan that outlines your content will help you stay on track with your marketing goals, intent and measure your video results.

Having a strategy also gives you a constant path to follow, rather than randomly posting videos without any clear direction or purpose.

Wanting To Start A Video Marketing Strategy?

Are you looking to kickstart your content and video marketing strategy? Look no further than Two Brother Creative.

We know that running a business takes a lot of time and resources, so don’t worry about that; our team of experts has years of experience crafting engaging, visually stunning videos that will help your business grow.

Get your FREE strategy call today.

Podcast Strategy: The New Secret to Skyrocket Your Business

Posted on April 17, 2023October 4, 2023 by Julia Genoves

Podcasting Is The Secret Weapon For Marketing Your Small Business

We’ve all seen it: the podcasting industry is becoming incredibly lucrative for entrepreneurs and content creators alike. Having a podcast strategy is essential for any small business wanting to make it big.

Podcasting may not be new, but its popularity is at an all-time high. In this Midwest Mindset (The Omaha Podcast) episode, we delve into the magic of podcasts with Erik Johnson, The Podcast Talent Coach, to learn how this tool can be a lead generator and a revenue machine for your growing business.

Podcast Marketing strategy for small business

Podcasting: The New Tool for Success

Read the full transcript

To understand what a podcast strategy is, we first need to know what podcasting is. Put simply, it’s a type of audio content that can be shared on various platforms like Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or Spotify. In today’s digital age, podcasts are seen as a form of audio entertainment and a hobby to record.

But for us, business owners and entrepreneurs, they are much more than that. Stop thinking of podcasts as entertainment shows and start thinking of them as what they are: a marketing tool, and not just any tool. Podcasting is the most affordable and effective marketing tool for small businesses today.

The power of podcasting in marketing comes from its audio format. Audio leaves the door open for the imagination to create a perfect image. This makes it easier for potential customers to relate to your idea and eventually reach out to your business.

But like any marketing tool or project, we can’t just dive in without a plan. To optimize our results, we need a podcast strategy, basically, a structure for our podcasting content to reach more people and produce more revenue.

Your Podcast Strategy

Before hitting the record button, there are a few things you need to know. To create an excellent podcast marketing strategy, you’ll need to identify the following aspects.

Understand Your Target Market and Ideal Customer

Take the time to really delve into who your customers are, what they want, and how they interact with your brand. Understanding what motivates them can help you develop ideas and topics your customers will find valuable in a podcast.

Define the Message You Want to Convey

Whether your goal is to inform, entertain, or inspire your listeners, your message sets the tone for the entire show. Also, make it clear and concise and follow a style for each episode.

Remember to keep things authentic to your brand and ideals; Having authentic content marketing that sets you apart from other podcasts will make it more likely to be shared.

Decide on a Call to Action

Always have a clear call to action for your listeners. Whether it’s subscribing, leaving a review, or joining your email list, make sure to communicate to your audience your call to action clearly and have the proper resources in your platform for them to do so.

Podcast Strategy Pro Tip: Create New Content From Your Podcast

One of the greatest podcast benefits is re-purposing your content, allowing you to reach more people by bringing valuable content to the different online platforms.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different formats to find the ones that give you the best results; your podcast content can be used for blog posts for Facebook, video reels for Instagram, email newsletters, etc.

SEO Friendly

SEO is often overlooked when it comes to podcasting, but it is actually an easy tool to optimize for search engines.

You can quickly boost your visibility and attract new listeners by researching and identifying the right keywords and including them in the titles, descriptions, and show notes.

Connect With More People

A podcast isn’t just a space to connect with your audience; it’s also great for connecting with influential people and significant leads. Let’s be honest; we all want to be featured in someone’s podcast; when you invite a special guest to your show, this creates a win-win relationship between you and the guest that can lead to future business opportunities.

Want To Start Your Podcast Strategy?

Ready to start your own podcast journey? Look no further; Two Brother Creative is here to help you make your business dreams come true. Our team of professionals is equipped with the best audio and video technology to make your content marketing the best in the Midwest.

We’ll help you create a personalized podcast marketing strategy. Start seeing the results you want for your business TODAY.

Book a FREE strategy call with us.

The Sales Secret Behind the World’s Most Successful Salesperson

Posted on April 4, 2023May 19, 2023 by Matt Tompkins

The Secret Behind the World’s Most Successful Salesperson

Referral marketing and business networking are the sales secret behind the world’s greatest salesperson: Joe Gerard. Have you ever heard of him?

Joe Gerard is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as “The World’s Greatest Salesman.”He has sold more cars than 95% of car dealerships in North America, more than 13,001 in total and kept most of his clients through the years. How did he do it?

Today we find out what his sales secret is!

Two Brothers Creative Content Marketing Company

The Sales Secret for Small Businesses

In today’s Midwest Mindset (The Omaha Podcast) episode, we learn from Joe´s business story that there IS a secret to his success. The best part is that this secret is something you can easily apply, like marketing and networking for your small businesses.

Read The Full Transcript

Marketing or Sales?

It might seem confusing as we talk about the greatest salesperson and focus the discussion on marketing; what does one thing have to do with the other?

First, you must understand that marketing is your overall strategy and that includes sales. Yes, sales is a part of your marketing and you need both to effectively grow your business. Like Marketing, sales is understanding human psychology to know what people want and need.

What drives your ideal customer? If you don’t know, how can you make their life better? Businesses struggle to generate leads without an effective understanding of their customers and marketing strategy.

The False Stereotype For Sales

Many people have a negative outlook on sales, such as the stereotypical ‘used car salesman’ trying to manipulate you into buying something you don’t need. That is not what real sales is about.

Sales is not about convincing someone to buy a product or service they don’t want or need. Good salespeople focus on identifying a prospect’s problem and offering the right solution. It’s about being empathetic and understanding their needs.

Business Networking

So how do we achieve what Joe Gerald did? How do we make and maintain revenue in the long run?

Of course, he mentions that hard work and being likable is a plus, but let’s be honest: millions of hardworking and likable people still need help with their sales and marketing.

The secret of Joe’s success was simple: build relationships with your customers.

As business owners, we are always focused on the next job, the next customer, the next sale, but maybe we should follow Joe’s lead and focus on our current customers. How are we building those relationships? As Joe discovered, cultivating those relationships is the secret to being the best version of your business self.

Nurture Relationships With Your Current Clients

Focus on the customers you already have; instead of just putting efforts into getting new ones, prioritize keeping your existing clients happy. Take the time to listen to their feedback and understand their needs. Improve their experience and keep up with them to ensure they become loyal customers.

Personalize Your Message

A key aspect of networking is personalized communication and embracing the power of the little things. A perfect example of this is what Joe did with his more than a 13,000 handwritten personalized thank you cards he would sent out monthly.

Think of ways that you can personalize your relationship with your customers. What will give them a special experience that they will never forget? Pay attention to your customer’s interests and use that to create a personalized massage that resonates deeply with your clients.

This can be as simple as an email, or a text message, and as elaborate as a gift basket or business dinner date.

Keep in contact

Focus on keeping and nurturing your relationships with your clients alive. Make time to contact them regularly, not just when there’s a new offering, but to keep them updated on important information. These regular check-ins keep your business on their minds and show that you actually care.

Referral Marketing

Referral marketing is one of the most effective ways to grow a small business. It involves getting your existing customers to spread the word about your business to their friends, family, or colleagues. Referral marketing can help build trust and credibility, as people are likelier to trust referrals from people they know than from business ads.

Referral is achieved with excellent service. Just as Joe did with his clients, he reached more and more people by being present and having that connection with his customers. You can do it as well, it just takes time to put effort into your customer’s relationships and focus on the little things.

Get Your Business Growing Today!

As small business owners, we know the struggles of trying to do everything by ourselves.

Business owners need to connect with their customers, network, and start referrals going. Having a great marketing strategy on top of all that can seem impossible. and let’s be honest: it´s a lot of work.

Leave that to us so that you can focus on what your business needs from you: the time and effort to connect with customers. We offer the proper tools and resources and are ready to take over and help your business get the visibility it deserves. At Two Brothers Creative, we have a team of experts on marketing, podcast, and production ready to make your business grow. Get your FREE strategy call today.

Don’t Make These Website Mistakes

Posted on March 23, 2023May 19, 2023 by Matt Tompkins

Don’t Make These Website Mistakes

Are you making website mistakes that are hurting your business? Many businesses make common website mistakes that can adversely impact their growth. How do we make a website if we don’t know what to do or how to do it?

In this Midwest Mindset Podcast (The Omaha Podcast) episode, we are joined by web design expert and marketer Chad Dodd of Klar, Inc.

Are Website Mistakes Hurting Your Business?

Read The Full Transcript

Unfortunately, for many small businesses, the answer is yes. Today, we’ll learn what makes a good website vs. a bad website and the simple things that you can do with your website to become more visible and gain more revenue.

Website Mistakes: What Type of Website Do You Need?

Before creating or changing your website, you need to define its purpose. Choosing which type of website your business actually needs is what will help you define the design, functionality, and features of your website.

Many businesses jump in without having a clear version of their website goals which is a costly mistake. We recommend choosing from these three types of websites to define what will become your digital storefront.

A Sales Website

A sales website is designed to sell your products or services online. This type of website usually has a catalog of all products, their costs, benefits, complements, and an “add to cart” button. This type of website is the most straightforward type of website to generate income from.

A Brochure Website

A brochure site is like an online business card that only showcases your products or services. If your page doesn’t have or needs online sales and is to share basic information or frequently ask questions, this might be the website for you.

A Validation Website

A validation website is, simply put, to validate that you are a legitimate business. These websites will tell customers that you are open, that your business is real, and showcase working hours, dates, and how to contact you to do business together

If you’re unsure which type of website you need, talking to a professional web designer is a great place to start to gain more insight.

Website Mistakes: Do You Have An SEO Strategy?

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a critical component of your website’s success since it will increase your visibility, traffic, and potential sales by making your audience find you on Google. One of the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make is to have a website without an SEO strategy.

The key to mastering SEO is to write valuable and innovative content that is relevant to your audience. You can do it by yourself or hire services from expert strategists or SEO companies.

SEO algorithms change frequently, so you need to keep up with the latest trends and best practices to maintain your website’s game going.

Website Design is More Than ‘Looking Good’

Your website’s design is the first impression online users get from you, so make it memorable and EASY. Many businesses have had the same outdated and unappealing design for years.

A well-designed website is effortless to navigate, visually appealing, and mobile-friendly. Your website’s design should be consistent with your business brand, colors, and concept, but more than anything, it should have Users Experience (UX) as the #1 priority.

By avoiding too many graphics, confusing navigation, or outdated design elements, you can create a functional site that your customer feels comfortable with and that makes it smooth for them to get to know your business.

Website Security

How to make a secure website? Page security is an essential aspect of website maintenance. Your website should have proper security measures, such as firewalls, SSL certificates, and user authentication, to protect your website and your users’ data from cyber attacks. Without it, your website becomes vulnerable, which can lower your credibility score and impact your SEO Marketing.

Need Help With Your Website Marketing?

By ensuring your website is functional, secure, and user-friendly, you will see results in your sales and visibility.

If you are not doing web optimization already, trust the experts! By getting help from web developers, marketing agencies, podcast producers, and other specialized professionals, you will give your online presence the boost that it needs.

Book a FREE strategy call with Two Brothers today to learn how to take your business’s website to the next level.

Marketing Mistakes: Why Isn’t My Marketing Working?

Posted on March 16, 2023May 19, 2023 by Matt Tompkins

Why Isn’t My Marketing Working?

Owners of businesses big and small make marketing mistakes every day that have a very real and damaging effect on the success of their companies.

Today we will cover the three most common mistakes business owners make with their marketing, which are the three fundamental pillars of any successful marketing campaign.

Stressed employee making mistake at office startup job, using sales statistics to do data research. Disappointed woman feeling displeased with business company failure, working on laptop.

Why Isn’t My Digital Marketing Working?

As a small business owner, it’s common to make marketing mistakes while trying to grow your business; trust us, we know how it goes: you’ve invested countless hours into building and growing your brand, and you’ve poured your passion and resources into your marketing efforts, yet the results aren’t what you expected.

If you do not see the returns you anticipated, it’s likely due to one of these three common marketing mistakes. In this Midwest Mindset Episode (The Omaha Podcast), we’ll dive into the common mistakes small businesses make and help you steer your marketing in the right direction.

Get The Full Transcript

Marketing Mistake #1: Your Target Market is Too Broad

One of the most common marketing mistakes is not being specific enough in targeting your ideal customer base. Many small businesses want to appeal to everyone, thinking this will bring in more customers.

The reality is that by trying to appeal to everyone or fix everyone’s needs with your services, your marketing becomes diluted and unclear, which decreases its effectiveness.

To make your marketing efforts more impactful, find a specific audience that would benefit the most from your product or service.

Questions You Should Ask to Define Your Ideal Customer and Target Market:

What are three things that the majority of your customers have in common?
What are their needs?
What drives them?
What are their fears?
What are their pain points, and how does your business help them?

“You should describe your ideal customer with the same specific details as you would describe yourself. You wouldn’t tell someone that you are “24-60 years old, male and female, married and single, between 0 and 4 children,” would you? Give them a name, age, interests, hobbies, and any other specific detail you can include. This will narrow your focus but, ironically, this is how you reach the largest customer base.”
-Matt Tompkins, Two Brothers Creative

Marketing Mistake #2: Your Message Isn’t Clear

This goes hand in hand with the previous point. Once you have defined your target audience and know you can solve a problem for them, you need a massage that resonates deeply with them.

When your marketing message isn’t working, it’s essential to take a step back and reevaluate your approach. Businesses need to niche down their target market to their specific ideal customer. It is equally essential for you to niche down to a specific and clear message to reach them.

Let’s take a store that sells products to moms. “Moms,” in general, is still a very broad audience to connect with. So, after you’ve niched down to a specific ideal customer, i.e., ‘pregnant mothers expecting their first child,” then you can craft a message just for them.

A message about a product that would benefit first-time-pregnant moms-to-be will not resonate in the same way for moms whose children are grown and raised. They are both moms, but a different message needs to be focused on for each of them in different marketing campaigns.

Use these insights and focus your marketing message around your unique selling proposition.

Marketing Mistake #3: Choosing The Wrong Media

Now that you have your target market specified and you’ve crafted a unique message specifically for them to resonate deeply with, you must be sure to use the right form of media too get your message too them effectively.

Social Media is not a marketing strategy – Social Media is a form of media (heck, it has it in the name, right?). There are many different forms of media to choose from, so it is very important to use a medium your specific audience is actually on. Remember that social media can be deceiving. Just because a platform is popular doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for your business.

Not choosing the right channel or platform to reach your potential customers can waste time, resources, and budget.

The first step should be to research where your target audience spends time, both online and offline. Are they active on social media? Is it tik tok or IG? Do they read blogs or listen to podcasts? Knowing your audience’s habits will help you select the right platforms to communicate with them effectively.

Your Business Can’t Go Without An Affordable And Effective Marketing Strategy

The most significant mistake small businesses make is having all this information and knowing where the problems are but not creating a marketing strategy to produce actual results.

A marketing strategy or plan will help set and achieve goals, giving you a clear understanding and measuring of your marketing results.

We know many small businesses struggle with this because business owners don’t have the time, budget, or expertise to do it themselves. Our Measure My Marketing tool is free and will show you where your strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities are with your marketing.

Measure YOUR Marketing now by contacting US today! YES! Measure My Marketing!

How To Get Government Contracts

Posted on March 6, 2023May 19, 2023 by klarinc

How To Get Government Contracts

Are you a small business owner interested in landing government contracts? In this episode of The Midwest Mindset Podcast, formerly The Omaha Podcast, we feature the Nebraska Business Development Center.

The government contract process can be daunting, but the rewards can be great. In this episode, we are joined by Veronica Doga and Harold Sargus from the Nebraska Business Development Center.

They specialize in helping small businesses with government contracting and they’re here to share their expertise.

City Hall, place to scout for government contracts

Why You Want Government Contracts

Read the full transcript

Small businesses have many opportunities to land big government contracts. To help secure one of these contracts, they provide three simple steps. These steps can help you start your business on the path to success.

But first, let’s talk about why landing a government contract is a good idea.

Government contracts can be extremely lucrative for small businesses. Not only do they provide a consistent stream of income, but they also offer the potential for long-term growth. Moreover, government contracts often come with built-in protections against things like price fluctuations and late payments.

So, if you’re looking for a way to stabilize your business’s finances, landing a government contract is worth considering.

Step One Of Government Contracts: Register Your Business

The System for Award Management (SAM) is the Official U.S. Government system. It has combined the capabilities of CCR/FedReg, ORCA, and EPLS. SAM registration is FREE, takes less than an hour to complete, and requires that you have a DUNS number.

Step Two Of Government Contracts: Research Opportunities and Set Up Alerts

Federal Business Opportunities (FBO) is the single entry point for Federal Government procurement opportunities over $25,000. Search for keywords related to your product or service.

Set up email alerts to receive notifications when new opportunities are posted that match your criteria. You can also research upcoming contracting opportunities on USASpending.gov.

Step Three Of Government Contracts: Attend a Free Webinar or Training Event

The Nebraska Business Development Center offers free webinars and training events year-round on topics related to government contracting. Attendees will learn about the resources available to them through NBDC.

They will also learn how to use these resources to their advantage when pursuing government contracts. Upcoming events can be found on their website.

Get Help From an NBDC Consultant

The NPDC’s team of consultants has experience working with businesses of all sizes in all industries across Nebraska and beyond. “As they shared in the podcast,” “We offer individual consulting services at no cost.” “This is to help you navigate the complexities of government contracting.”

Visit our friends at the NPDC online today to learn more about their services and to schedule a consultation. Get started now!

Securing Government Contracts

Securing a contract with a governmental agency can be a beneficial source of regular income for your company. However, it can be intimidating to go through the process alone.

Luckily, resources are available to help you navigate the complexities of government contracting. So you can focus on what you do best – running your business!

Start Marketing Your Business Today

The benefits of video podcasting are extensive, but you may not have the time or expertise to produce it all yourself, making this process daunting and overwhelming.

At Two Brothers Creative, we are ready to help you and your business grow. In every episode of the Midwest Mindset for Marketing podcast, we provide tips and techniques to market your business like a pro.

Most business owners struggle to become more visible because they don’t have the time or money to market themselves. Our turnkey video podcast marketing system will help you generate new leads and bring home new revenue.

Book a FREE strategy call with Two Brothers today, and let’s talk! (Link to Book a Strategy Call to be added later)