COMMIT TO EXCELLENCE

February 2024

The Great Eight

A Marketing Checklist for Excellence

Rick Arnemann

I n this ever-evolving landscape of our industry, independent retailers face many challenges. Besides the usual issues––staying ahead of the competition and maintaining customer loyalty (and dollars), there’s the curve the last few years have thrown. However, with a strategic and customer-centric approach to marketing, you can not only survive but thrive in 2024. Here’s a checklist on what you can do to commit to marketing excellence this year.

Amáli Jewelry

Hand-woven 18k necklace

with akoya pearl

MSRP $4750

amalijewelry.com

781.789.8976

Southern Gates® Jewelry

Sterling Silver cardinal earrings

MSRP $132

southerngatesjewelry.com

800.845.6964

BUILD A STRONG ONLINE PRESENCE

We all know that having a robust online presence is crucial. Make sure that you’ve invested in a user-friendly, mobile-responsive website that showcases your product in a captivating way. Utilize social media platforms to engage with customers visually. Regularly update content and leverage search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to improve visibility in online searches.

TELL A COMPELLING BRAND STORY

Your store has a story, and you can capitalize on this by crafting a compelling brand narrative. Share the history of your brand or the inspiration behind your custom designs or house collection. Authentic storytelling creates an emotional connection with customers, fostering loyalty and trust.

PRIORITIZE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Exceptional customer service is a powerful marketing tool. Ensure that every customer interaction, whether in-store or online, is a positive and memorable experience. Personalized service, quick response to inquiries, and a hassle-free purchasing process all contribute to customer satisfaction. Consider implementing loyalty programs or special promotions to reward repeat customers.

INVEST IN HIGH-QUALITY VISUALS

We all know that jewelry is a visual and emotional purchase, so the importance of high-quality imagery and video cannot be overstated. Invest in professional photography and videography that showcases the intricate details and beauty of each piece. Utilize these images across your website, social media, and marketing materials to create a cohesive and visually appealing brand image.

UTILIZE EMAIL MARKETING EFFECTIVELY

Email marketing remains a powerful tool for connecting with customers. Build and maintain a mailing list by offering incentives such as exclusive discounts or early access to new collections. Send out regular newsletters featuring engaging content, promotions, and updates to keep your audience informed and engaged. Actually look at your analytics. What’s your open and click-through rate? Who came in and made a purchase because of an email?

And, to make things easier on yourself, automate when and where possible. If someone joins your email list, make sure you have a welcome email set up to go out. If you have an online store, make sure all those emails are set up properly (abandoned cart, receipt, etc.).

HOST VIRTUAL EVENTS AND WORKSHOPS IN ADDITION TO YOUR LIVE EVENTS

Consider hosting virtual events or workshops that showcase your jewelry and educate customers on various aspects of the industry. We know that the whole point is to get customers into stores. But people are busy, and sometimes they just can’t make your event.

Host a preview of your newest collection via a social live broadcast. Or drop a ten-minute diamond class onto your YouTube channel. Guys who are considering engagement rings might find this very helpful. These types of events not only provide value to your audience but also foster a sense of community around your store.

COLLECT AND SHOWCASE CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Positive reviews and testimonials can significantly influence potential customers. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on your website or third-party platforms like Google, Facebook, or Yelp. Showcase these reviews in your marketing materials and on your website to build trust and credibility.

STAY AGILE AND ADAPTABLE

The marketing landscape is dynamic, and trends evolve rapidly. Stay informed about industry trends, monitor customer preferences, and be willing to adapt your marketing strategies accordingly. Embrace new technologies and platforms to stay ahead of the curve.

Berco

10k opal triplet pendant

MSRP $490

bercojewelry.com

800.621.0668

Joryel Vera Collections

Sterling nature shape earrings

MSRP $160

joryelverawholesale.com

561.508.2945

Kelly Waters

Black Label platinum finish

gold vermeil sterling micropave

pendant

MSRP $190

kellywaters.com

800.647.7017

If you’d like a more comprehensive overview on any of these marketing strategies, or if you’d like more ideas on how you can commit to excellence in 2024, we’d be happy to talk with you. Our inbox and phone lines are always open.