Why Digital Marketing is a Marathon, not a Sprint

Why Digital Marketing is a Marathon, not a Sprint

With the London Marathon this weekend, it’s got us thinking about the similarities between endurance sport and Digital Marketing. Marathons are long, tough races that require immense dedication and perseverance if you want to get the desired results. Online marketing is no different.

Before taking on a Marathon, a runner will look at many aspects of their health and performance. They will use this data to inform their ultimate goal and create a plan to reach it. Business owners/Marketers need to do the same and can do so by asking themselves the following questions:


What is your Businesses health right now?

All Digital Marketing should begin with an extensive research and analysis of the businesses market and current situation. By doing an audit you can go back to the basics and review your current performance. You should dig deeper than just what is on your website, you should look at your content, the links and the usability. By taking the time to research and analyse your market sector, you can identify opportunities which will show you where the best results will come from. 


When would you want to start seeing results?

If you set out into the online marketing world without a clear definition of your goals and what you want to achieve, the likely result is a struggle to see the benefits of the hard work put in. Luckily, there is a S.M.A.R.T way to set objectives. According to this method, your goals and objectives should fit the following criteria:

  • Specific – Your goal should be targeted to a specific area for improvement.
  • Measurable – You should identify how you will measure success or at least determine an indicator of progression towards the goal.
  • Achievable – The goal must be attainable and not aspirational. Don’t set yourself up for failure.
  • Relevant – It’s important to choose goals that matter and will have a real impact.
  • Timely – The goal should be given a time frame or a target date.


Think about your business’ needs and what you’d like to accomplish with your online marketing strategy.


How are you going to win in the period ahead?

To win at anything worthwhile, you need a training plan. Runners know this, and this idea applies to your marketing. After assessing the data you have gathered relating to your current performance, you should then plan how you are going to use the digital tools you have available to you. Identify what you need to do on each marketing channel in order to make gains.


What kind of commitment can you make? 

Remember, to succeed, marathon runners set a pace they can maintain. It is very easy to burn out. It’s the same with Online Marketing. Start slowly. Get a feel for the work. Find your feet, your natural rhythm and voice. Take the time to evaluate what’s working for you and what isn’t. In Digital Marketing, quality beats quantity every time. 


Who can support you / what support do you need?

The fact is marathons aren’t for everyone. It takes a special kind of dedication to see your goal through. To put in the time. That’s why, as digital agency based in Leeds, we can help you every step of the way. From research and analytics, through to strategy and implementation, Ascensor can help you to grow your business online. Get in touch to find out how.


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