The 1 Tactic to Build Trust, Loyalty and Drive Sales
And How You Can Start Using Content Marketing Today
When your customer buys from you, be it fish or equipment, her problem isn’t immediately solved. Buying from you will help her solve her problem, but she still has to apply knowledge herself to solve it. You probably have a blog, but how often do you leverage this knowledge to help drive more sales? By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to apply this principle so you can start today.
Your Benefits From Content Marketing
Build Trust With Your Customers
It’s 2023- we’ve got AI to solve half our problems and a shot against Covid but making decisions about purchases is still a struggle.
Trust is a huge part of the purchasing process and one that isn’t easy to gain. So how do you gain trust online?
Expert advice. Just like we mentioned in the introduction- buying from you is just part of the problem-solving process. For your customers to get to the full solution, they have to apply knowledge. By providing them with the insights they need, you create a subconscious feeling that you care about their overall success rather than just making a sale.
Build Loyalty & Create Differentiation
Let’s face it- there are so many online fish stores out there.
Some have lower prices, some have higher prices. Sure, you can tell the difference, but can the average consumer do the same?
Content marketing is what sets you apart from the competition and establishes you as a category of one. Everyone sells fish, equipment, and accessories. But only a select few provide extra value in the form of guidance and experience to learn from.
I’ll give you an example:
Sell More
Mark buys his first setup. It’s a 10-gallon kit with a single betta. The place he bought it from didn’t tell him the tank should have been cycled, and the fish ended up shocked and died. Now he has to buy another fish, right? I mean, he already has all the equipment.
Let’s assume the betta was 10 bucks. Would have Mark preferred to pay more for the fish (let’s say.. 20-30%, so 12-13) and have his original fish thrive, or buy the fish again (for a total cost of 20$) and have his heart broken because he killed the 1st one?
Don't worry- you don't have to write a whole encyclopedia
Actually, that’s where I come in.
On this site, I bring the experience of expert fishkeepers and break it down into bite-sized, easy-to-consume bits of information.
You can leverage the site as a resource, either on your way to make a sale or after it, which leads us to the next point:
What Do I Get Out Of It
Hi, I'm Shy!
I'm a marketer and fish enthusiast based in New York City.
Building A Relationship
After marketing endlessly in the only city in the world where internet marketing is almost ineffective (NYC is too dense, but it’s a different story) I’ve learned that nothing quite tops the value of business relationships.
Since I’m the new kid on the block- I wanted to say hello and put myself on the map.
A Link Back From Your Website
A link back from your website will help me rank better for certain Google searches. I’m targeting informational, low-purchase-intent keywords, and the more sites linking to mine that I can get, the higher my site will appear in Google searches.
It doesn’t take away from you, or cost you anything- it just helps me a lot.
How You Can Apply It Today
While there are plenty of ways to incorporate content in your marketing strategy, here’s a simple bird eye view of what it’ll look like.
In this example, you can see what an automated drip campaign will look like.
The trigger in this example will be a new subscriber, who will receive a chain of pre-written emails designed to get her closer to a purchase (also called lead nurturing). This feature is built-in in most email marketing tools.
As you probably figured by now, incorporating content into your strategy isn’t too time-consuming or complicated. The time-consuming part is writing and curating the content- which is what I spend most of my time on here on this site.
In other words, here are 3 ways you can leverage my content to drive sales to your business. All I ask is that you link back to this site as a source.
Use it as a blog post
Use it in your email sequence
You probably have an email marketing solution that you’re using (MailChimp, Aweber, Klayvio just to name a few).
Feel free to use the templates below in your email marketing. If it was me, I would set up my drip campaign just like the picture above and space the emails within a week apart.
P.S.
If you are not marketing savvy or don’t know what a drip campaign is I’m happy to help you with that. Just respond to the original email.
Turn Into A Social Media Post
It all goes back to valuable content.
Since you are sharing information that is worth reading, your followers will be happy it came up on their feeds.
3 Converting Emails- Yours For The Taking
Feel free to adjust the language to your needs or keep it as is
First Time Buying Fish Online? 2 Things To Know
Seasoned Fish Keepers Share Their Secrets
Buying a fish at your local fish store may sound pretty straightforward- you go in, pick your fish, pay, and off you go. But what happens if you don’t have a local fish store nearby, or you just don’t trust your local store enough to buy fish from them? Online stores offer a solution, but not all are created the same. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to tell a reputable store from a bad one
Shipping
A reputable online fish seller will insist on shipping fish on select days. Shipping is a race against time, not only because you can't feed the fish- but because of the stress it puts on it. A good retailer will typically overnight packages with a signature required and coordinate with you to be present when the fish arrives.
Action steps:
Be aware of long shipping times. If the seller insists on sending the package on a specific day (usually the beginning of the week) that’s ok. But 2-day shipping is a red flag.
Shipping can be pricy for that reason. Don’t forget that fish are shipped in water, which weighs around 8 pounds to a gallon. The added weight and the speedy delivery add to the price.
Dead On Arrival Guarantee
Stress is a lot more dangerous to fish than the lack of food. Guppies, for example, can go up to 3 weeks without eating- given the water is right.
A good online retailer knows that stress opens the door to most fish diseases, and raising healthy fish is a top priority.
That is why a good retailer will have a DOA policy in place. Each place does it a little bit differently- but for the most part, you’ll just need to take a picture of the fish shortly after receiving it and they’ll either replace or refund you.
Action steps:
Don’t be afraid to reach out to a store and verify their DOA policy. You should also ask what percentage of their shipments are dead on arrival, and exactly how they handle those cases.
Wrapping up:
Buying fish online is often better than your local fish store. The competition for online stores is fierce, and only the store that offers great fish is able to sustain itself.
Don’t be afraid to reach out to your online store and ask about their shipping and DOA policies. It’s usually these 2 that separate the great from the rest.
4 Best Fish For Beginners
The fish that make fishkeeping easy
Starting a new aquarium can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially for beginners. Selecting the right fish is crucial for a successful and enjoyable fishkeeping experience. Here, we’ll explore the top four fish that are perfect for those just starting their aquatic journey, highlighting why they’re great for beginners and discussing their suitability for community tanks, along with their overall pros and cons.
Guppy
Guppies are often hailed as one of the best choices for beginners due to their hardiness and adaptability. They are undemanding when it comes to water conditions, making them forgiving for those still learning the ropes of aquarium maintenance.
Community Tank Suitability
Guppies are known for their peaceful nature, making them excellent candidates for community tanks. However, be cautious with their tank mates, as guppies have long, flowing fins that might attract nipping from more aggressive species.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Hardy, colorful, prolific breeders.
Cons: Prone to overbreeding, may require a bit of culling if breeding is not desired.
Platies
Platies share many of the same qualities as guppies, making them an ideal choice for beginners. They are resilient, adaptable to various water conditions, and come in a variety of vibrant colors.
Community Tank Suitability:
Platies are generally peaceful and get along well with other community fish. Their easygoing nature makes them a good fit for tanks with a mix of species.
Pros and Cons:
Pros: Colorful, easy to care for, good community fish.
Cons: Like guppies, they can reproduce quickly, so be mindful of population control.
Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras catfish are bottom-dwelling fish known for their amusing behavior and hardy nature. They are excellent scavengers, helping to keep the aquarium substrate clean.
Community Tank Suitability:
Corydoras are peaceful and coexist well with a variety of fish. They are social creatures, so keeping them in a group is advisable.
Pros and Cons:
Pros: Excellent scavengers, peaceful, entertaining to watch.
Cons: May be sensitive to poor water conditions, so regular water changes are crucial.
Zebra Danio
Zebra danios are active, energetic, and resilient fish, making them perfect for beginners. They can tolerate a range of water conditions and are not overly sensitive.
Community Tank Suitability:
Zebra danios are schooling fish and thrive in groups. They coexist well with other peaceful species and add a dynamic element to the aquarium.
Pros and Cons:
Pros: Active, hardy, good schooling behavior.
Cons: Their high activity level might stress slower or more timid tank mates.
Conclusion
When venturing into the world of fishkeeping, choosing the right fish is the first step toward a successful aquarium. Guppies, platies, corydoras catfish, and zebra danios are excellent choices for beginners, offering hardiness, adaptability, and compatibility with a variety of tank mates. As with any hobby, proper research and attention to care are key to creating a thriving aquatic environment for these delightful fish.
6 Benefits of Fishkeeping
In the craziness of today’s fast-paced life, grabbing some peace and a bit of nature can be a real struggle. But hey, that’s where fish keeping comes in – it’s like bringing a piece of the underwater world right into your living room. And guess what? It’s not just about having a cool-looking aquarium; some have reported wonders for their mood, and stress levels.
1. Stress Reduction and Relaxation
The gentle, rhythmic movements of fish navigating through the water can have a soothing effect on the human mind. Watching fish swim gracefully in their aquatic environment has been proven to reduce stress and promote relaxation. According to a study published in the journal Environment & Behavior, aquariums with fish have the potential to lower blood pressure and heart rate, contributing to an overall sense of calm.
2. Mindfulness and Focus:
Fish keeping encourages mindfulness as enthusiasts learn to observe and care for their aquatic companions. The meticulous tasks of maintaining water quality, adjusting lighting, and providing proper nutrition require focus and attention to detail. This immersion in the present moment fosters a mindful mindset, providing a temporary escape from the demands of daily life.
3. Educational Opportunities:
Fish keeping is a hands-on learning experience that opens the door to understanding the intricacies of aquatic ecosystems. Enthusiasts learn about water chemistry, filtration systems, and the specific needs of different fish species. This educational aspect not only satisfies curiosity but also instills a sense of responsibility and environmental awareness.
4. Sense of Accomplishment:
Successfully maintaining a thriving aquarium can be a rewarding experience. Overcoming challenges, such as balancing water parameters or successfully breeding fish, instills a sense of accomplishment and pride. This sense of achievement can boost confidence and provide a positive outlet for personal growth.
5. Community Building:
Fish keeping is a hobby that fosters a sense of community. Whether through local aquarium clubs, online forums, or social media groups, enthusiasts can connect with like-minded individuals to share experiences, seek advice, and celebrate successes. This sense of belonging enhances the overall enjoyment of the hobby.
6. Therapeutic Benefits:
For individuals facing mental health challenges, fish keeping can provide therapeutic benefits. Watching fish swim can be a form of visual therapy, and the routine of caring for an aquarium establishes a comforting and predictable routine. Some therapy programs even incorporate aquariums as a tool for reducing anxiety and promoting emotional well-being.
Conclusion:
Fishkeeping provides a gateway to a realm of mental, emotional, and physical benefits. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, a sense of accomplishment, or a community of fellow enthusiasts, the tranquil depths of fish keeping have something to offer for everyone willing to take the plunge into this captivating aquatic world.
Wrapping Up
I hope I was able to give you some ideas about growing your business. Feel free to change the language and add or remove parts as you see fit. The images are all original and yours to use as well. If you choose to remove parts that were hyperlinked you can either link an image or just give credit anywhere in the article.
If you’re unsure of how to do that, need help, have questions about how to apply this or about marketing a fish store business- feel free to shoot me an email.