Google buys YouTube

Today Google announced it’s acquisition of internet video company YouTube for a massive $1.65 billion US dollars. By the time you read this, it will no longer be headline news, or possibly even news at all. But the implications or opportunities this has for your business and online marketing may yet be obvious. 

 

What it may well mean is that your Google marketing campaigns can be stretched to include video, alongside the text and picture adverts currently available. This might help you to achieve higher click through and conversion rates depending on your ability to produce effective video ads. 

 

But thinking further a field, how long until the internet becomes more like your TV, with content being delivered in video rather than text? You might find it hard to believe but some commentators are already predicting the death of text on the internet. Surely not you say, however if Google, the undisputed king of the internet, is thinking in this direction then maybe you should also.

 

I’m not saying you need to move to video tomorrow, definitely not. There’s still a need for text in your online marketing, but can you make a move to video before your competitors? Can you achieve that first mover advantage that the established bloggers and others are enjoying right now?

 

Now that’s a thought.

Multilevel marketing – what’s all that about

This is a term you don’t hear much, but one that is fundamental to effective marketing. If you want to grow your business using marketing tactics then you need to think about taking a multilevel approach. If you haven’t already, try to read some of Chris Cardell’s (Cardell Media) thoughts on this subject.

 

So what’s it all about? In a nut shell, it is about using multiple marketing vehicles to reach your customers in a planned and organised manner. You might well be doing this already, but do you know how many different approaches you can take? Have a think about these ideas:

 

1. Website with Payperclick advertising

2. Networking events

3. Press relations

4. Exhibitions

5. Conference speaking

6. Joint ventures

7. Publishing articles

8. TV and radio ads (although only if you have a lot of money to burn)

9. Telemarketing

10. Direct mail

11. Sponsorship

12. Entering business awards schemes

 

The list could go on and on. The important thing about multilevel marketing is that you try several different ideas, although not necessarily all at the same time. For example you might take a different approach each month and focus on that. So in January you set up a website and start some small scale Payperclick ads. In February you arrange to attend two or three networking events, perhaps with the local chamber of commerce. During March you look at engaging with the local press, and so on. You should get the idea.

 

Importantly though, before you start anything, plan what you want to achieve and set realistic goals. You will then be able to measure if it’s working and decide whether to continue, or cut your losses.

 

Remember, you have nothing to loose but a lot to gain.