Small businesses often face the daunting task of competing with industry giants. However, with the advent of technology, the competitive landscape has changed. Technology has become the great equalizer, empowering small businesses to reach wider audiences and engage with more customers.
But with rapidly advancing technology, multiple hat-wearing small business owners may need guidance to stay versed in emerging trends. In our ongoing efforts to support small businesses, Comcast Business partnered with the Macomb County Chamber to host a panel discussion with three prominent metro Detroit professionals who offered their insights on staying atop of emerging technology trends.
The panel consisted of:
Mark S. Lee, who moderated the discussion, is president and founder of The LEE Group, an integrated marketing consulting firm focused on providing marketing, branding and communication solutions to clients. He is also a well-respected media contributor across various platforms.
Hajj Flemings is a serial entrepreneur and brand technologist who operates at the intersection of brand, design, fashion, technology and web3. He founded Rebrand Cities, RapVS.Ai and Prompt Camp. Flemings is also an international keynote speaker.
Dr. Pam Perry is an award-winning communications and public relations professional working with established experts and experienced entrepreneurs. She is also publisher of Speakers Magazine and president of PamPerryPR.com, a digital public relations firm.
The panel discussed vital advantages technology brings, like its ability to enhance targeting and customer personalization. The proliferation of social media platforms and digital advertising channels allows small businesses to be visible in an increasingly digital world.
“Consistency is the key to successful social media,” said Dr. Perry. “I tell small business owners to focus on platforms they know they will be consistent in their usage and to not waste their time on something they are not fully committed to.”
Another vital aspect of technology in marketing and advertising is automation. Small businesses often have limited resources, making it challenging to effectively handle marketing tasks. Flemings suggests that small businesses embrace automating processes to streamline their business and buy back time for the owner.
By harnessing the power of technology, small businesses can level the playing field, reach their target audience with precision, and establish a stronger brand presence. The ever-evolving digital landscape offers immense growth potential, and embracing technology-driven marketing strategies is critical to unlocking success in the competitive business world.
Concluding the panel discussion, Shannon Dulin, director of Community Investments for Comcast in Michigan, shared with attendees how they can apply for one of 100 comprehensive Comcast RISE grant packages that will be given to qualifying small businesses located in Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties. The Comcast RISE grant program is open for application until June 30 and provides businesses with a $5000 monetary grant, marketing support, technology resources and more. You can apply for a grant from Comcast RISE here.
