4 Ways Digital Marketing Can Be Used in the Utility Sector
We might not think of the utility sector as part of the private sector, but it would be challenging for any business to thrive when the gas, water, or electric company isn’t performing essential duties. Of course, an effectively run utility sector also meets basic human needs outside of commercial uses. People rely on utilities in their households, schools, and elsewhere. Efficiency should be a top goal of a utility company, and promotions should be as well. When a utility service has something valuable whtehter it’s utility conservation, power poles, or anything else, it must make people aware of it. Digital marketing is vital, and the utility sector can put it to work in four valuable ways.
1 – Expanding Access to Information
Utility companies deliver such valuable services to their customers that staying in the communications loop with them is vital. Something as simple as sending out an informational newsletter via email could facilitate this result effectively. Keeping a website or social media page updated and responding quickly to customer inquiries can assist people concerned about outages or other issues that may arise.
Information from a utility company may also emphasize charitable contributions, sustainability initiatives, and other efforts to foster a positive image. Anything that assists in building confidence and trust can work in a utility company’s favor.
2 – Using Digital Marketing Capabilities for Increased Customer Service
Digital marketing can take many forms, and using artificial intelligence-based chatbots could combine digital marketing with customer service duties. A chatbot can provide immediate answers to questions and queries, which dramatically improves outdated customer service models, such as sending an email and waiting two weeks for a response.
Chatbots and virtual assistants could also support digital marketing strategies. When someone engages with one of these programs, a utility company can promote things relative to the inquiry. For example, someone falling behind on their obligations might learn about financial assistance programs through the chatbot. While the information might be present on a website or social media platform, not everyone visits those resources or goes through them in detail. A chatbot can point out things that would be helpful to a customer.
3 – Using Videos and Search Engine Optimization for Informative Marketing
A utility company could have something of value for customers, such as a preventive maintenance program that protects them from unexpected problems. Paying a little extra for a program like this could be well worth it, and the customers need to know it’s there. A well-made video presentation could detail all the valuable benefits. The video may also describe exactly what the customer would get for the investment. Creating a transcription of the video and putting the content on a blog might reach even more potential customers.
4 – Utilizing Local SEO and Geo-Fencing
One way to maximize the reach of this digital information is by using practical search engine optimization steps. Even a modest investment in SEO strategies may increase the audience for video promotions or blogging. However, since utility companies serve local areas, local SEO and geo-fencing strategies might be the most appropriate.
Yes, utility companies can use digital marketing in many ways to disseminate information. Employing digital marketing strategies could make things better for customers in many ways.