As we approach the midpoint of summer and switch to Q3, it can be a great time to review your Digital Marketing program & strategy. Here are a few ideas of what should be on your radar to maximize success in the second half of the year.
#1 – Transition to Google Analytics 4…#seriously
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you probably know that beginning July 1, 2023, Google Analytics will stop collecting data through Universal Analytics. Thus, if you still need to switch to GA4, it’s time to prioritize this task and familiarize yourself with the new analytics platform.
#2 – Planning for Q4
While it may feel early to start planning for the fourth quarter, especially for e-commerce brands, staying ahead is crucial. The third quarter tends to fly by, and waiting until the last minute to strategize for the holiday season can lead to a hodgepodge of rushed efforts. Consider your Q4 strategy early on, considering potential market fluctuations and the limited holiday consumer dollars available.
#3 – Test Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial intelligence has become a prominent feature across various technologies, and it’s important to consider how it can enhance your digital marketing strategy. While relying solely on AI may not be feasible, it’s worth exploring its potential applications. Experiment with AI-powered tools and solutions to automate tasks, personalize customer experiences, and gain a competitive edge in the market.
#4 – Mid-Year Digital Marketing Strategy Evaluation
The third quarter, particularly during the summer, provides an ideal opportunity to evaluate your digital marketing strategy. Instead of waiting until the end of the year, assess your progress at the halfway mark. Review your goals, analyze performance metrics, and make any necessary adjustments to stay on track and maximize your results.
#5 – 1st Party Data
Want to build a moat around your brand and marketing? 1st party data and email marketing are pivotal in building a solid customer base and maintaining revenue streams. Focus on collecting email addresses from your audience and ensure you have a database of contacts you can reach out to regularly. With potential changes in search engine result pages and reduced visibility of ads and organic features, building a robust email list can help sustain traffic and engagement.
#6 – Prepare for Search Engine Result Page (SERP) Changes
As search engines like Google evolve their algorithms, it’s essential to be prepared for potential changes in search engine result pages (SERPs). There may be a decrease in organic and paid ad visibility, emphasizing the need to rely on other traffic sources. Enhance your brand visibility and invest in strategies that generate more branded searches to ensure your business remains prominently positioned in search results.
Summary
The second half of the year presents opportunities and challenges for digital marketers. The best marketing teams stay proactive, adapt to market trends, and leverage the power of data to make informed decisions. The super-duper best marketing teams partner with Volume Nine to help you get all this stuff done & stay on top of Digital Marketing trends 
