Making your website work harder for your business is more achievable than you may think. We frequently work with propane companies who are taking their next step to build a better, second version of their website with more online tools than their first website had. Many propane companies are 2nd and even 3rd generation and their businesses are well-established and don’t face the typical challenges of startups. However, when it comes to expanding market share through online tools, even seasoned business owners can feel overwhelmed.
It’s easy to feel behind the curve when bombarded by aggressive marketing messages suggesting you need to do “all the things”. Here’s the reality: you don’t have to do everything at once AND not every marketing strategy is right for every business. Small, strategic steps matter, and with proper planning and guidance, you can build & grow a powerful online presence at a pace that makes sense for your business.
Start with Discovery, Not Decisions
The most crucial first step is understanding exactly how your online presence can serve your business goals. This is where a structured discovery process becomes invaluable. Just as you would follow architectural blueprints to construct a house, your website design deserves the same level of careful preparation and planning.
During a discovery session, together we’ll identify:
- Current pain points that your website can address
- Opportunities to increase your market visibility
- Ways to streamline operations through online tools
- Specific features that will drive real business results
- Clarity on your next steps
Starting with a solid plan gives you clarity on your next steps, timelines, and considerations for further additions to your website so you don’t waste time or money on solutions that won’t grow with your business.
Common Challenges Propane Marketers Face Online
Through our work with propane marketers, we’ve identified several common challenges that a strategic online presence can address:
- Limited local visibility despite years of community presence
- Differentiating your company from competitors
- Manual processes that could be streamlined through online systems
- A website that doesn’t showcase your unique story and help customers clearly understand your experience and the value you provide
- Missed opportunities to capture leads from online searches
- Very few or even no online reviews that build trust and motivate potential customers to reach out to you
Remember, your website is an extension of your business’s physical presence. It deserves the same careful attention you’ve given to building your company. By taking a measured, strategic approach to your website and online marketing, you can expand your market share while maintaining the personal service your customers expect.
The propane industry has always adapted to changing times
The propane industry has always adapted to changing times while maintaining its core values of service and reliability. Your website should do the same – evolving to meet modern customer expectations while reflecting the trustworthy service that’s made your company successful for generations. And if you haven’t read ‘Propane Marketers: Innovate & Expand Your Business,’ published in BPN Magazine, there are some great ideas for tapping into some hidden or underutilized assets your business already has. Applying these innovative approaches to your digital presence can transform your website into a powerful tool that not only meets today’s customer expectations but positions your business for continued growth in an evolving marketplace.
Just as your customers trust your decades of experience in the propane industry, partnering with an experienced marketing team can help you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your time, efforts, and marketing budget with confidence instead of feeling overwhelmed.
Let’s Do This!
Just as your customers trust your decades of experience in the propane industry, partnering with an experienced marketing team can help you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your time, efforts, and marketing budget with confidence instead of feeling overwhelmed. Just get started, but plan carefully, and partner wisely. Your digital transformation doesn’t have to happen overnight, but it does need to start somewhere. The sooner you begin, the sooner you’ll see results.
