9 Essential Tools Your Digital Marketing Agency Needs
Mar 10, 2020
Written by Casey Bjorkdahl
Casey Bjorkdahl is one of the pioneering thought leaders in the SEO community. In 2010, Casey co-founded Vazoola after working for a Digital Marketing Agency for five years in New York City. Vazoola is now one of the fastest growing and most widely recognized SEO marketing firms in the country.
As a digital marketing agency, the goal is to provide exceptional service to your clients, and you must be increasingly creative to do so.
The internet has raised the competition level incredibly high. So high, in fact, that sometimes standing out from the crowd and attracting customers may seem like a distant oasis.
However, do not feel discouraged. There are three keys to succeeding online as a business. First, find your niche.
Second, develop a digital marketing strategy. Third, take advantage of readily available technology to help you reach more potential customers.
For example, there are many free digital marketing tools you can use to make the most of your online presence. Here are nine essential tools your digital marketing agency should be using.
1. Google Analytics
Released in 2005, Google Analytics has become the go-to resource for businesses to make sense of web data.
Google Analytics produces reports of unparalleled detail. It is easy to install on your clients’ websites, and it captures a variety of valuable information, such as:
- Visitor interactions
- Traffic data
- Search rankings
- General performance
While there are many analytics tools available, Google’s is versatile and easy to use.
2. Email Marketing
Big-name companies use advanced email marketing tools, such as Magnum, Comcast, Damas Jewelry.
Sophisticated tools, such as EasySendy Drip and SendinBlue help businesses of all sizes create customized email sequences.
These types of digital marketing tools may not seem exciting or fresh. But reaching people through well-planned and cleverly executed email campaigns is a tried-and-true way to attract new buyers.
It is especially helpful in retaining current customers and promoting repurchasing. After all, statistics show that it costs five to six times more to get a new customer than to keep a current one.
3. SEO and SERP Tools
SEO, or search engine optimization, and SERP, or search engine results pages, matter. SEO guides searchers looking for what you are selling to you. Where you rank in the SERP can determine how many people see your listing.
Google regularly updates its algorithms, but the main takeaway is copy that is well-written, honest, detailed, and helpful is rewarded.
In contrast, copy with keyword stuffing, irrelevant keywords, and other black hat techniques is punished with low rankings. There are many useful SEO tools with various specialties.
- Link building
- Backlink auditing
- Content optimization
- Video SEO creation
- Rank tracking
The tools most helpful to you will depend upon where you are in your SEO journey.
4. Keyword Research Tools
Using the right keywords creatively is another aspect of a winning digital marketing strategy and an essential part of a strong SEO strategy. Examples include:
With an excellent keyword research tool, you can increase the chances of being found by consumers looking for your products or services.
5. Project Management Software Programs
Excellent project management software is one of the best digital marketing tools for business, especially small businesses.
If you are working with multiple clients, juggling deadlines and projects, mistakes can happen. If you miss things, you could lose clients.
A popular management program is Basecamp, which has options for making lists, online chats, scheduling, and updating client orders.
6. CRM Tools
Maintaining good customer relations is vital. The right CRM, or customer relationship management software is an integral part of keeping business running well. There are several CRM programs to choose from.
7. File-Sharing Programs or Services
You will probably have to send large files from time to time. Email programs such as Outlook and internet services such as Gmail and Yahoo all limit file size.
A file-sharing program allows you to send files exceeding 25MB.
8. Graphic Design Programs
If you do not have outside design support, a program to handle high-resolution graphics will make your life easier.
For example, Snappa helps you create many types of designs, from display ads and website banners to social media posts and blog images.
9. Helpdesk Programs
Part of excellent service is being available to answer customer inquiries and offer solutions. Teamwork Desk has numerous features that let you take care of all your clients.
Succeeding in eCommerce involves making a place for your company among the noise of today’s internet and marketing it with a cohesive, organized strategy.
However, the judicious use of digital tools is another critical component of success. With the right tools for support, you can relax and focus on delivering the best possible products and services.