Gateway Digital is aiming to fill the skills and time gap for small businesses which are too busy to keep up with their Internet marketing and branding.
A survey of Christina Lake businesses showed that many small businesses are not marketing themselves through social media like Facebook and don’t have strong up to date websites. However, more and more customers use the Internet to find where they want to shop.
“Many business owners see the need for a strong digital presence but they only see companies available over the Internet,” said Cavan Gates, community coordinator for the Christina Gateway Community Development Association. “There’s nothing like sitting down face to face with the person doing your marketing to discuss ideas and branding.”
Smart phones have changed marketing further to include formats for smaller screens and increased use of the Internet for directions while on the go. More than just directions, customers are making purchases or bookings on the Internet and only come to the business after.
This shift left some businesses scrambling to keep up with the shifting marketing landscape.
“Your digital presence is the modern business sign. Customers are looking on Facebook and Google and if you aren’t there, you aren’t even in the race,” said Gates, who is bringing his experience with business and communications to the project.
As more businesses become aware of this change, they look for someone to help—and usually find lots of offerings on the Internet. Gateway Digital promotes its face-to-face advantage because it is a local business.
Kim Kinakin has been hired as creative director at Gateway Digital, moved to the Boundary after working for years in Vancouver and Los Angeles’ music industry as a graphic artist.
“I’m really excited to use the skills I honed in the international music industry to grow local business,” he said. “Now living in a what many consider a ‘vacation getaway’, I’m far away from big city stresses and enjoying it.”
Services offered include branding, print design, video editing, web design, social media and marketing.
Contact Gateway Digital 250-447-6165. The website is gateway-digital.com; email is creative@gateway-digital.com.