Digital marketing is a term that gets bandied about a lot these days, and without a doubt it's an increasingly essential element in the marketing strategies of SMEs.

But what's the best way to shift marketing budgets from above the line to digital – Facebook, Google Ads, Promoted Tweets?

A new infographic from Vocus gives a glimpse into how SMEs around the globe are using digital to boost their bottom line.

Sales

Unsurprisingly, the top reason for SMEs using digital marketing is to drive sales. After this comes increasing brand awareness, reaching new customer segments and driving customer engagement.

Growth

More than half of SMEs already use digital marketing tools, with this number expected to grow. 

However SMEs are lagging behind larger companies when it comes to creating custom content, mobile strategies and e-commerce solutions.

Popular tools

The most popular digital marketing tool for SMEs is their website (87 per cent), followed by social media platforms (78 per cent) and email for marketing and promotion (70 per cent). 

Next down the list comes SEO, email for customer service, blogs and white papers, and videos and photos. 

Measurement

The most common metric used to measure digital marketing success is sales (71 per cent) and lead generation (53 per cent).

The next most common metrics are search rankings, publicity and comments and a social network following. 

Looking forward

Almost three quarters of SMEs report that their digital marketing strategy is very (10 per cent) or moderately (60 per cent) effective at achieving objectives.

While 90 per cent of SMEs are very likely to increase their digital marketing efforts over the next three years. 

To find out more visit vocus.com.

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