In any job, it’s important to make sure you have the right tools on hand to effectively share your message with co-workers, clients or the public. Take your company communication to the next level (beyond the traditional PowerPoint presentation) with these innovative, user-friendly programs:

• Uberflip: Transforms your PDFs into an interactive online magazine.

• Visme: Creates infographics by using a library of customizable templates and icons.

• GoAnimate: Builds animated videos in minutes, allowing you to choose your own soundtrack, cast of characters and more.

Pro tip: Track tool metrics to monitor how your audience is interacting with your content.

— Devon Chestnut, APR, CPRC, Communications Manager, Cox Communications

Last year truly exhibited the power of video. Who hasn’t seen the viral success of videos like “Chewbacca Mask Mom” or Tasty videos? These are perfect examples of how good content gets watched and shared. It’s vital for businesses to incorporate video into their marketing strategies.

“People connect with video, especially if it’s presented in a way that’s authentic,” said videographer Jeff Dailey. “Video marketing should tap into how a product or service impacts real people and then demonstrate that through video narratives.”

As more companies use video as a marketing strategy, it’ll be important to start with great content.

– Natalie Ghidotti, Ghidotti Communications

 

Most people research online during the purchasing life cycle. This means your website is often where consumers first learn about your company and decide whether they want to do business with you. Make a strong impression with a website that communicates your expertise, trustworthiness, reliability and transparency.

What makes a website credible?

• Professional, visually appealing design
• Frequently updated content that is free of grammatical errors
• Case studies, testimonials and reviews
• Visible contact information
• Staff bios and photos
• Authentic photography (no stock photos)

Companies seen as credible have distinct advantages over competition. Who doesn’t want to work with someone they trust?

– Leah Brown, S&A Communications

There is no industry standard for how long you should wait between website redesigns. However, there are key questions you should answer before considering an update. Here are a few:

• Does your site look bad and function poorly on mobile devices?
• Does your site lack professionally produced content and images?
• Does your site load slowly?
• Has your company, brand, service or product changed?
• Do your competitors’ sites meet users’ needs better than your site?

If the answer is “yes” to at least three of these, it may be time to redesign. Check out this chart for three ways to prepare.

– Teresa Kriegsman, S&A Communications