Content Marketing Strategy: The Role Your Company Blog Plays in Conversions

Olive Street Design • October 28, 2022

There are many reasons to invest (at least) a portion of your total marketing budget in content creation and distribution. After all, publishing valuable content allows businesses to reach many different goals. These objectives include boosting brand and product awareness, driving organic website traffic, improving customer engagement, or maximizing customer retention. It’s also worth mentioning that those who are prepared to combine content production with SEO have an increased chance to win top positions on SERPs, which guarantees multiple measurable benefits when working to grow a business .

But if you look at the research about content marketing, you’ll see that most marketers aren’t investing in content to drive organic traffic to their websites. They’re doing so to improve sales . In fact, a recent report from HubSpot revealed that more than 60% of brands measure content marketing success through sales .

So what does this mean? It’s relatively simple. The finding shows that when looking to improve website conversion rates, it’s not a bad idea to explore ways to employ your company blog to reach your objectives.

If you’re ready to upgrade your content strategy with conversion-improving tricks, the following are the best ways to use your company blog to increase sales. 

Include a Strong CTA on Evergreen Posts

Whether you’re just getting started with content distribution or have been doing it for years, it’s safe to say that the most valuable type of post you can publish is one that has the potential to become evergreen.

Evergreen content stands out amongst any other type of format for two reasons:

  1. It gives your audience generous amounts of value that do not fade over time.
  2. Thanks to a long-form structure and keyword optimization, evergreen content has the potential to generate impressive website traffic. (In fact, research shows that long-form articles get 77.2% more backlinks and 56.1% more social shares than posts that are shorter than 1,000 words.)

But here’s the thing. Neither of these benefits matters if you’re not doing enough to turn organic website visits into sales . And it just so happens that the best way to accomplish that specific goal is to use a powerful call to action on pages that attract a large number of web visitors.

It’s worth noting that the things that make a CTA strong will differ from business to business. 

For example, on a page like MarketBeat’s US Stock Market Holidays , a banner inviting web visitors to “Save $200 today” aligns with the audience’s intention of making money.

A screenshot of the u.s. stock market holidays website.

However, a lifestyle business like MasterClass will get better results by capitalizing on its instructors’ authority. This is why on a design-related blog post , CTA sections invite prospects to “Learn from the best” and highlight that users can build photography and design-related skills by learning from superstars like Annie Leibovitz, Frank Gehry, and Dian von Furstenberg.

A screenshot of a website that says learn from the best

So, to enhance your content pages with impactful calls to action, ensure that you identify your audience’s pain points. Then, use phrases that will address those wants and offer a solution that people would be happy to try out.

Promote Your Other Marketing Channels

Did you know that, on average, it takes about eight touches to make a sale ? That’s right. To turn a prospect into a customer, they must interact with your brand at least eight times (or more, if you’re a B2B organization).

Now, this process is not something you can rush. After all, aggressive sales tactics usually backfire, which is why you should not encourage a first-time website visitor to invest in your $5,000 solution. However, you can optimize your company blog to encourage people to continue interacting with your brand so that you can gradually nurture them into buyers.

Using CTAs that direct reader attention towards alternative marketing channels (like your social media accounts or your newsletter), you can effectively turn people populating the top stages of the sales funnel into viable leads.

For example, January AI’s Best Snacks for Diabetics post shows how effectively this brand uses TOFU content to get people interested in metabolic health insights. That’s why the most prominent CTA on this page includes an invitation to sign up for the brand’s newsletter, which promises valuable content and allows the business to use a more intimate format (like email) to turn blog readers into app users.

A screenshot of a website that says what are the best snacks for diabetics

Source: january.ai

Alternatively, you could also promote your social media channels. For example, Figma did it with their What’s new in Figma blog post, which calls user attention to the fact that the most detailed company news get published on the brand’s Twitter profile.

For even more detailed announcements , be sure to check out the release notes and follow figma on twitter.

Source: figma.com

Build a Subject Matter Authority

Generating trust is one of the prerequisites for an impressive conversion rate. But whom do consumers trust nowadays? 

Research from Edelman revealed that the most trustworthy brand ambassadors include scientists and experts and that the content most likely to get them to trust an influencer is educational content.

In other words, when it comes to content meant to boost sales, investing in subject matter authority equals conversions .

With this in mind, one of the most valuable things you can do on your company blog is to publish posts that show you know what you’re talking about — especially when targetting people in the consideration phase of the buyer’s journey.

Explore ways to prove authority through content. For example, companies like Transparent Labs do this by using scientific references and providing extensive details on a subject. Moreover, if you look at the brand’s guide to creatine supplements , you’ll see that it prioritizes value over making a sale and even includes information about the author’s credentials.

What is the best creatine supplement ? ( 2022 science update )

Of course, there are other ways to boost subject matter authority while increasing conversion rates. Lead magnets, such as the Ultimate Site Audit ebook by Semrush , are also excellent ways to prove your brand’s trustworthiness. They provide users with valuable information, all the while encouraging their movement down the sales funnel.

A screenshot of the ultimate site audit with semrush.

Help Customers Get the Most out of Your Product

In some cases, the best way to use your company blog isn’t to aid customer acquisition but to boost customer retention instead. After all, by extending customer lifetime value, you’re not just injecting funds into your company budget. Even more, you’re maximizing the ROI on your active marketing campaigns and building a more predictable cash flow you can rely on in the future.

And the best thing about using content to do this? It’s easy, cost-effective, and relies on the knowledge and experience you already have.

By creating tutorials and how-to posts that help customers get the most out of your product, you’re actively helping them get more value from their purchase, maximizing their satisfaction, and increasing their chances of becoming brand ambassadors. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that offer highly-technical products that have complex features which require a steep learning curve.

For instance, if you check out Affinda’s How to Use Invoice Recognition Software guide, you’ll see how effectively this post answers a specific customer question. By taking inspiration from it — creating screenshots and writing accessible copy — you can accomplish the same thing on your blog, maximizing your customers’ satisfaction and boosting CLV at the same time.

A screenshot of a website showing how to use free online invoice recognition software.

Create Conversion-Focused Content

Although it may seem obvious, creating conversion-focused content is a crucial part of publishing posts that boost sales. After all, the highest likelihood of converting a customer is if they’re in the Decision stage of the buyer’s journey and you present them with information that directly impacts their purchase decision .

To master this strategy, start by becoming familiar with content formats meant for the bottom of the sales funnel. These include product reviews, demos, customer testimonials, spec sheets, etc.

A quick look at EachNight’s best mattresses guide shows a great example of a piece of content meant to serve the bottom of the sales funnel. It provides objective product information, includes high-impact CTAs (which are logically placed to encourage readers to shop for the items), and even contains special offers that allow leads to get more value for their money.

An advertisement for a mattress called amerisleep as3

Of course, knowing that you’re targeting people at the bottom of the sales funnel (who need that extra push to convert), it might not be a bad idea to turn your social proof into blog posts . 

For instance, you can get inspired by Slack and publish case studies , which show prospects specific ways you solved customer pain points and gives them a good idea of what they can expect from our solution, along with an incentive to get in touch with your sales team.

A screenshot of the slack website.

Source: slack.com

Highlight Your Product’s Relevance

Lastly, as you explore content formats that will help you boost conversion rates, consider different ways to prove that your organization has its customers’ best interests at heart .

Blog posts that delve into what your product does and elaborate on unique features that solve highly specific pain points are excellent tools when trying to inspire sales.

A look at the Flamingo Product Updates article shows how effectively we illustrate our dedication to customer satisfaction. Highlighting our product team’s customer-first mindset is often the push potential buyers need to take the first step towards conversion.

A screenshot of slash commands on a computer screen

Alternatively, you might look up to Therabody, a high-authority brand that regularly teams up with other industry leaders to provide its audience with new and exciting findings and prove that its solutions work. For instance, in an announcement stating that it’s teaming up with Oura , Therabody establishes its credibility when it comes to promoting sports recovery. It further proves its dedication to customer experience and helping its (current and future) customers to maximize their recovery and performance.

A screenshot of a website that says `` therabody and oura collaborate to improve sleep and recovery ''.

In Closing

Investing in high-quality content is always a great idea. 

But as you explore strategies that will help you transform standard blog posts into powerful conversion-driving assets, don’t forget to start the production process by defining two things:

  1. your objectives
  2. your target audience’s position in the sales funnel

Once you know precisely what you want to accomplish and what stage of the buyer’s journey your prospects are in, you can optimize your blog posts to solve your prospects’ pain points, give them valuable information that will help them make a purchasing decision, and encourage them to turn into loyal customers of your brand.

From Celebration to Spotlight: Transforming Business Milestones into Magnetic Marketing Moments

June 27, 2025
Every small business hits a milestone that feels like a deep breath after a long hike—your first year, 100th customer, new office, or that elusive revenue goal. The temptation to just pop some champagne and keep moving is strong, but these moments are goldmines for your brand. They’re proof of progress and resilience, and when you share that narrative right, it resonates. It doesn’t have to feel like a brag; it can feel like a moment of connection—and that’s where the real marketing magic begins. Start With the Story, Not the Stat Before you post a graphic or slap “We Made It!” on a banner, take a breath and ask yourself what this milestone really means. People connect with stories , not metrics—they want to know the journey behind the headline. Was your 500th sale the one that helped you hire your first employee? Did that one-year anniversary remind you of the nights you slept three hours to keep the lights on? Use the stat as a frame, but fill the picture with what you’ve lived through to get there. Include Your Customers in the Celebration Milestones are only meaningful because people—your customers, clients, partners—helped you get there. So when you share the moment, bring them into it. Maybe you create a thank-you video that calls out a few loyal fans, or offer a discount as a kind of community gift. The goal is to turn your “win” into something that also feels like theirs, and that emotional reciprocity builds long-term brand loyalty. Put Your Milestone in Their Hands with a Photo Book When you're thinking of ways to bring your business milestone to life, few things are as tangible—or as memorable—as a beautiful photo book. It's more than a keepsake; it’s a conversation starter when placed in-store, a thoughtful gesture when given to clients or partners, and a unique giveaway that won’t end up in the junk drawer. You can streamline the process by designing custom bulk photo books through services that specialize in large orders, making it more affordable. For the best impact, choose a provider that offers free digital backups, prints with rich, vivid color, and uses premium paper. Document the Moment in a Meaningful Way Skip the generic stock photo announcement. Instead, take real photos, create behind-the-scenes reels , or do a day-in-the-life video to show what this moment looks like for you and your team. If you’re camera-shy, even a handwritten note scanned and shared digitally adds authenticity. These types of personal touches are what make content sticky—they help your audience feel like they’re part of something, not just observing it from afar. Use It to Strengthen Your Brand Narrative Think of every milestone as a sentence in a much longer story you’re telling about who you are and where you’re headed. It’s not just that you hit a goal—it’s what it says about your values, your grit, your creativity. Tie the milestone back to your brand’s larger mission or identity. If your bakery just reached its two-year mark, remind people how you started in your grandma’s kitchen and why you still make everything by hand. That kind of narrative cohesion deepens trust and recall. Turn It Into Press or Media Opportunities Milestones make for excellent local press or blog coverage, especially if there’s a human-interest angle baked in. Don’t just blast a press release—pitch a short email to journalists or bloggers who’ve covered businesses like yours . Focus on what makes your story different and why it matters to the community or industry. Local media loves a feel-good story that shows growth, resilience, or reinvention—so frame your milestone in a way that invites others to root for you. Launch Something Alongside the Announcement Momentum is your best marketing fuel, so pair your announcement with an action. That could be a new product drop, a refreshed website, a seasonal campaign, or even a new service line. This does two things: it gives your milestone marketing a purpose beyond celebration, and it channels the energy of your audience toward something productive. You’re not just saying “We did it,” you’re saying “Here’s what’s next,” and that shift is powerful. Let the Milestone Fuel Internal Culture, Too Don’t forget your team—if they’re part of the reason you hit this goal, they should feel the moment as much as your customers do. That could mean featuring employee stories in your marketing, doing a casual team celebration , or even letting them take over your social media for a day. This kind of internal excitement creates organic, authentic content that your audience will pick up on. Plus, it reminds your team that their effort matters, which drives better work and better vibes across the board. Your small business milestones aren’t just personal—they’re powerful proof points that can spark conversation, build loyalty, and grow your brand if you share them with purpose. By leaning into story, including your people, and finding ways to extend the impact of each win, you turn a fleeting celebration into something with lasting value. Marketing doesn’t always have to mean selling; sometimes, it’s about showing up honestly and letting people feel invested in your journey. So when the next milestone comes around, don’t just mark it—maximize it. Discover how Olive & Ash Design can transform your online presence with standout Duda-powered websites and clever marketing strategies. Schedule a free strategy session today and take the first step toward a website that drives growth.

Is It Time To Redesign Your Website? 9 Clear Signs

June 25, 2025
A website doesn’t fail overnight. It becomes less usable, less aligned, and less effective quietly . Because there’s no dramatic crash, most companies wait too long to redesign. If you are questioning whether your site is still doing its job, you are already asking the right question. The harder part is answering it with certainty. This article gives you that certainty. Based on patterns seen across hundreds of redesigns, it outlines 9 signs experienced UX strategists, developers, and marketers watch for: signals buried in analytics, backend friction, and user behavior. If these show up, it’s time to rethink how your website supports growth. Let’s get right to it. Redesign Or Just Refresh: Here’s How To Make The Right Call Not every website problem calls for a full teardown. Sometimes, targeted adjustments are enough. Here’s how you know what you need: A website refresh updates visual elements : fonts, colors, images, headlines, without changing how the site is structured or how users interact with it. It’s for when your site works fine but looks outdated or slightly off-brand. A website redesign, on the other hand, changes how your site works . It restructures pages, updates the backend, improves navigation, and rethinks the user journey. It’s for when your site isn’t converting, isn’t mobile-friendly, or no longer supports how you sell. 

Using AI to boost your business - without losing the human touch

By Lindsay Rosasco • June 19, 2025
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a practical tool changing the way we do business. From automating repetitive tasks to generating insightful data, AI helps businesses of all sizes operate more efficiently. But as the adoption of AI tools becomes more widespread, we need to keep this crucial reminder at top of mind: AI is a complement, not a replacement, for the human value that drives long-term business success. Whether you run a creative agency, a service-based business, or a small retail operation, this post will guide you through using AI effectively—while preserving the human qualities that set you apart.

Small Business, Smart Website: Surviving Economic Downturns One Click at a Time

June 16, 2025
Photo via Pexels Economic downturns don't knock—they lurch in, rearranging balance sheets and rattling nerves. For small business owners, this moment calls for sharpened thinking and stripped-down execution. The storefront still matters, but the digital footprint becomes the heartbeat. Your website isn't just a placeholder; it's a lifeline, a sales engine, a feedback loop. When wallets tighten, people shop smarter—and that means your site needs to work harder. Here's how to turn lean times into long-term digital leverage. Prioritize Clarity in Messaging Visitors land on your site with questions, not patience. Answer fast. Shrink the fluff, ditch the jargon, and aim for frictionless flow from landing page to checkout. During hard times, people cling to brands that feel stable—and nothing communicates stability like clear, confident communication . Think strong headlines, helpful subheaders, and a single clear CTA per page. You're not just selling; you're shaping experiences that inspire confidence. Make every pixel pull its weight. Utilize Secure Document Sharing PDFs aren’t flashy, but they’re fierce. They let you post policies, contracts, menus, and downloadable forms without leaving sensitive data exposed. Bonus: you can control access. Encryption and password protection keep prying eyes out. If you need to update one, there’s no need to scramble—just use a PDF editor and get it done in minutes. The processes involved in editing PDFs are simple, secure, and entirely under your control, which is priceless when your business can’t afford leaks or lapses.  Leverage Cost-Effective Marketing You don’t need a Madison Avenue budget to make noise. You need focus. SEO and email marketing punch far above their weight class when done with intention. Local search optimization, keyword-anchored blog posts, and a monthly newsletter can all convert without costing a fortune. Use analytics to spot what’s working and double down. Talk to a professional team who can help you take your marketing tactics to the next level. These cost-effective marketing strategies don’t just keep you visible—they build loyalty with zero waste. Enhance Customer Engagement Connection trumps perfection. Add a chat feature, embed customer reviews, ask for feedback after purchases—do whatever you can to turn transactions into conversations . The businesses that endure are the ones that listen and adjust. Email automations should feel personal, not robotic. You want to sound like a neighbor, not a newsletter. Start prioritizing customer engagement the way big brands prioritize ad spend—because every bit of retention matters. Invest in Scalable Systems Tempting as it is to slap together the cheapest plug-ins and themes, think ahead. What works for ten customers might crumble under fifty. Look for website systems that grow with you—clean integrations, reliable hosting, modular design. A booking system that handles reschedules without crashing. Inventory updates that sync in real time. These tools aren’t frills; they’re the difference between scaling up or slowing down. Futureproof your site with an eye toward scaling your small business, even if you're just trying to stay afloat today. Implement AI-Driven Personalization Creepy tracking is out. Smart tailoring is in. AI tools can now analyze site traffic and adjust what users see based on their interests, time of day, or device type. This isn’t science fiction; it’s simple code plus smart strategy. Whether you’re highlighting bestsellers or adjusting product recommendations, you’re meeting users where they are. More businesses are integrating artificial intelligence into their website strategies to build trust and relevance. You should, too. Optimize for Mobile Users More than half your visitors are thumbing through your site from their phones—probably while juggling something else. If it’s slow, clunky, or confusing, they bounce. Period. Responsive design isn’t optional ; it’s baseline. Keep buttons big, menus clean, and load times under three seconds. Mobile doesn’t just mean smaller—it means faster, smarter, cleaner. Mobile optimization ensures accessibility and usability in a way that desktop design alone never will. A recession doesn’t care how long you’ve been in business. It doesn’t discriminate—it exposes. But a well-crafted website isn’t just survival gear; it’s a quiet power play. Discover how Olive Street Design , an award-winning digital marketing firm, can elevate your online presence with stunning, custom Duda websites and innovative branding solutions.

How to Steer Your Business Through Tough Times Without Losing Momentum

June 5, 2025
When your business hits a rough patch, it can feel like everything is unraveling at once. The pressure mounts from every direction—expenses creep up, sales slow down, and the energy in the room shifts from hopeful to hesitant. It’s easy to feel stuck, unsure which move to make next, or if there's even a move worth making. But survival doesn’t just depend on having a good product or service; it hinges on how well you adapt, how fast you react, and whether you’re willing to reimagine what your business could become. Reconnect with Why You Started Before you try to fix anything external, take a moment to ground yourself internally. Strip away the daily noise and revisit the reason you even began this journey in the first place. There's clarity in reminding yourself of the mission, the problem you set out to solve, or the community you hoped to serve. When you return to your original "why," it sharpens your decision-making and reignites the fire that you’ll need to push forward. Get Brutally Honest with Your Finances The numbers don’t lie, but ignoring them sure makes them meaner. When things tighten up, the first place you need to look—no matter how uncomfortable—is the financial sheet. Identify what’s leaking money, where you're overspending , and what truly drives revenue. It’s not about trimming fat recklessly; it’s about re-prioritizing based on what actually helps keep the business alive and breathing. Level Up with an MBA When your business hits a wall, sometimes the smartest move is to invest in yourself. An MBA program will deepen your understanding of strategy, management, and operations while also diving into leadership, self-awareness, and the kind of self-assessment that fuels real growth. And with flexible online programs available, you can keep running your business while building the skills to run it even better—if that sounds like your next step, you should check this out . Revamp Your Digital Marketing with Purpose If your online presence looks the same as it did three years ago, that’s probably a red flag. The digital world doesn’t slow down, and neither should your marketing approach. Revisit everything from your website to your email strategy—are you speaking to the people you want to reach, or are you just broadcasting into the void? Working with the expert digital marketers at Olive + Ash Design can inject a new level of professionalism, creativity, and data-driven focus into your online strategy that you simply can't fake. Talk to Your Customers—Really Talk to Them When you're facing uncertainty, your best source of insight often comes from the people you serve . Don’t guess what they want or assume what they’re thinking—ask. Use surveys, social media, or even casual one-on-one conversations to gather their perspectives. Not only can this inform better product or service decisions, but it also builds a level of transparency and trust that goes a long way when money gets tight. Stop Trying to Be Everywhere at Once One of the traps small businesses fall into during hard times is the urge to do everything, be on every platform, serve every type of client. That scattershot approach only adds noise to the chaos. Focus matters more now than ever; pick your strongest channel , your most engaged audience, or your most profitable offer and double down. It’s better to be excellent in one place than mediocre across the board. Build a Circle That Challenges You Tough seasons aren’t the time to go it alone or rely only on those who always agree with you. Whether it’s a mentor , a peer mastermind, or a trusted business coach, you need people who’ll ask you hard questions and poke holes in your blind spots. These voices aren’t meant to discourage—they’re meant to help you see what you might be too close to notice. The sharper your circle, the smarter your moves. Create a Mini-Plan, Not Just a Master Plan In a crisis, long-term planning often becomes a trap. You write the grand vision, only for the world to shift again next week. Instead, get good at creating tight, 30-day mini-plans that are focused, flexible, and actionable. These shorter bursts give you momentum and measurable progress without the paralysis that often comes from trying to solve everything at once. You can still have a North Star—but let your compass be nimble. The businesses that make it through tough times aren’t always the biggest, flashiest, or most well-funded. They’re the ones that learn how to get scrappy—to pivot fast, to make hard calls, and to reinvent themselves without losing their core. Challenges will always come, but they don’t always have to end in failure. If you can stay clear-headed, open-minded, and just bold enough to try something new, there’s a way through. Sometimes the way forward isn’t about charging ahead—it’s about stepping sideways, shaking things up, and rebuilding on purpose.  Discover how Olive + Ash Design can transform your business vision into reality with their innovative designs and expert digital marketing solutions. Learn how they can help you stand out and succeed!

When the Floodgates Open: Navigating Rapid Growth as a Small Business Owner

May 23, 2025
Growth is the goal—until it hits you like a freight train. Small business owners dream of a sudden surge in sales or a viral moment that puts their brand on the map. But what happens when the boom arrives, and you’re not ready for it? Managing rapid growth without losing your footing is tricky, but with the right strategies, you can expand without exploding. Redefine Your Core Processes It’s tempting to just work harder and longer to keep up with demand, but that’s a short-term fix that’ll burn you out fast. What you really need to do is pause and reevaluate your current systems. Are your day-to-day workflows scalable , or are they dependent on you being hands-on at every step? Redefining your processes to support more volume without compromising quality is the foundation of surviving a growth spurt. Tighten Up Your Financial Lens If you’re scaling quickly, sloppy financial tracking will catch up with you—fast. Staying on top of income, expenses, and cash flow isn’t just about bookkeeping; it’s about making decisions based on reality, not guesswork. Converting receipts, invoices, and tax documents into PDFs helps small business owners maintain well-organized financial records, making tax season and audits much smoother. By understanding PDF merging procedures , you can use a simple PDF merging tool to keep related documents in one file, so nothing gets lost in the shuffle. Hire Like a Human, Not in Panic Mode Adding people to your team in a hurry can create more problems than it solves. You want to hire intentionally , not just throw bodies at the chaos. Slow the hiring process just enough to find people who align with your company values and are comfortable with fast-moving environments. Remember, hiring is a two-way street—you’re building a culture, not just plugging holes. Revamp Your Website for the Long Haul Your website is often the first place new customers experience your brand—and during a period of rapid growth, it becomes even more crucial. Can your current setup handle an influx of visitors, orders, and support inquiries without crashing or creating a bad user experience? This is the moment to invest in upgrades, streamline navigation, and rethink your user journey. Many small businesses find it invaluable to work with expert web designers like the team at Olive + Ash , who understand both the creative and functional needs of scaling businesses. Delegate with Clarity, Not Desperation You can’t do it all, and during growth phases, trying to will only slow you down. Delegating doesn’t mean dumping tasks on someone and hoping for the best. It means clearly communicating what’s expected , why it matters, and how success will be measured. When your team understands the "why" behind what they’re doing, they take more ownership—and you get to focus on steering the ship instead of paddling frantically. Let Data Be Your Compass Gut instinct gets you started, but data helps you sustain. When growth is happening fast, you need to know which products are flying off the shelves, where customers are coming from, and what’s driving repeat business. Without real-time metrics, you’re flying blind and making guesses instead of informed decisions. Set up the right dashboards, track only what matters, and let the numbers tell you where to invest your energy. Protect Your Culture at All Costs Rapid growth can fracture the very thing that made your business special to begin with—its soul. As new people join and routines get shaken up, your original company culture can easily get diluted or lost. Be deliberate about communicating your values and showing—not just telling—what kind of business you are. Rituals, team check-ins, even informal Slack traditions can go a long way in maintaining connection during chaos. Say No More Often Than You Say Yes More opportunities come with growth, but not all of them are right for you. Just because you can take on more customers, products, or partnerships doesn’t mean you should. Saying “yes” to everything will stretch you thin and divert energy from your core strengths . Being selective—especially during a boom—keeps your brand consistent and your team focused. Fast growth can feel like a validation of everything you’ve worked for, but it’s not the finish line—it’s just another chapter. How you handle this chapter determines whether your business levels up or flames out. Stay grounded, stay human, and remember that growth isn't just about numbers—it's about building something that can last. With the right systems, people, and mindset, you don’t just grow—you evolve. Discover how Olive + Ash can transform your business vision into reality with innovative designs and expert digital marketing solutions that drive success.

What Does a Digital Marketing Agency Actually Do?

May 23, 2025
If you’ve found yourself wondering what on earth a digital marketing agency actually does, you’re not alone. Maybe you’re a growing business looking to reach more customers online, or perhaps you’re tired of feeling invisible every time someone Googles your service. The world of digital marketing can seem overwhelming, but with the right partner, it’s not only manageable—it’s your secret weapon for real growth. So, let’s unpack what a digital marketing agency truly delivers, how the collaboration works, and why choosing a team like Olive Street Design might be the smartest move you make for your brand’s future. Beyond the Buzzwords: What Does a Digital Marketing Agency Do? At its core, a digital marketing agency is your dedicated guide through the ever-evolving landscape of online business. Their mission? To help you attract, engage, and convert more of the right people through strategic digital channels. This starts with listening to you—your goals, your challenges, your story—and then building solutions that fit. Most agencies (ours included) offer a mix of services. These typically include: Web Design and Development: Your website is your storefront, your calling card, and your best pitch rolled into one. Agencies create custom, easy-to-navigate sites that look fresh on any device and tell your story at a glance. If you’re interested in standout web design in chicago, a full-service team handles development from the ground up—or gives your existing site a much-needed facelift. SEO and Online Visibility: There’s no use having a brilliant site if no one finds it. Search engine optimization (SEO) ensures your business appears where your customers are searching. A good search engine optimization agency will dive into keywords, website structure, and technical fixes to help you move up in rankings. Content and Storytelling: Content isn’t just filler; it’s how you connect with your audience. Agencies plan, create, and manage everything from blogs and graphics to videos, making sure your message hits home. With expert content creation agency support, your brand’s story stands out amidst the noise. Social Media and Paid Ads: It’s not just about being seen, but being seen by the right audience. From building organic social feeds to running sponsored google ads or targeted display ads, agencies help you reach new eyes, drive real engagement, and grow your brand voice where it matters. Branding, Voice, and Reputation: Your digital reputation is powerful. Agencies craft logos, polish brand messaging, and manage reviews, ensuring consistency from your email signature down to your Instagram bio. The Real Purpose: Why Do Agencies Exist? Let’s be honest: digital marketing is more than just posting on Facebook and sending a few emails. The online landscape shifts daily, and it takes time, expertise, and creativity to keep up. The purpose of a digital marketing agency is pretty simple—they take the complexity off your plate so you can focus on running your business. Here’s what you gain when you hire the right agency: Expertise on Tap: You get access to a team who live and breathe digital strategy. They know what’s trending, what’s outdated, and how to make your investment count. Fresh Perspective: Sometimes you’re just too close to your own brand. Agencies offer an outsider’s eye, helping you see blind spots and fresh opportunities. Scalable Resources: No need to hire, train, and manage an in-house squad. Agencies flex as your needs shift, giving you an experienced crew without the overhead. Is It Worth Hiring a Digital Marketing Agency? Absolutely—if growth and efficiency matter to your business. Here’s why partnering with an agency offers real value: Time Savings: Instead of spending hours wrangling website updates or writing blog posts, you stay focused on what you do best while experts handle the rest. Consistent Results: Agencies are performance-driven. We measure, tweak, and optimize campaigns to ensure you’re not just spending—you’re seeing meaningful results in traffic, leads, and sales. Sustainable Growth: With a strategic long-term plan, your brand doesn’t just get a temporary boost. You build a foundation for ongoing visibility and customer loyalty. Businesses of all sizes—from single-location cafes to educational institutions—often find that an agency is the difference between digital stagnation and online success. With Olive Street Design, collaborating isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about co-creating solutions that feel tailor-made, practical, and effective. How Do Digital Marketing Agencies Make Money? Every agency works a bit differently, but most operate on a mix of project-based fees, retainer agreements, and sometimes a performance incentive based on results. The goal is always a win-win: the agency grows when you grow. By delivering valuable digital marketing services, agencies build lasting relationships and a reputation for results—reflected in both client success stories and industry awards. Transparency is key here. You’ll always know what you’re paying for, whether it’s a full website overhaul, ongoing social content, or a targeted SEO campaign. Collaboration That Drives Results The real magic of a great digital marketing agency is in the partnership. At Olive Street Design, we see ourselves as an extension of your team. It’s about rolling up our sleeves, digging into your unique goals, and crafting a plan that’s as creative as it is strategic. Whether you’re modernizing your brand, launching a new product, or aiming to dominate search rankings, we’re here to help you make it happen. In Summary A digital marketing agency isn’t just a vendor—it’s your strategic partner in cutting through the digital noise and building an online presence that actually delivers. From seamless web design in Chicago to comprehensive search engine optimization agency services and stand-out content creation, agencies like Olive Street Design bring the tools, talent, and teamwork to help your business thrive. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start growing, maybe it’s time to see what a true partnership can do. Let’s collaborate and create the digital success your brand deserves.

How Often Should You Redesign Your Website?

May 19, 2025
In today’s digital landscape, having a website that captivates and retains visitors is crucial for any business. However, the question remains: how often should you redesign your website? A website redesign is not just about aesthetics; it plays an integral role in user experience, SEO, and overall effectiveness. This blog post will guide you through various factors that determine the frequency of your website redesign while answering the core question of how often it should be done. Understanding the Importance of Website Redesign Before delving into the specifics of how often to redesign your website, it’s vital to understand why redesigning is important. A website redesign can lead to: Improved User Experience: A fresh design can provide better navigation, making it easier for visitors to find what they’re looking for. Enhanced Functionality: Technology evolves rapidly, and with it, user expectations. A redesign can incorporate newer technologies that enhance website performance. Brand Refresh: As your brand evolves, its online representation should too. A redesign can ensure that your website aligns with your current brand identity. Better SEO Performance: Search engines favour websites that are up-to-date. Redesigning can help improve your site's ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs). Realising the importance of a website redesign sets the foundation for understanding how frequently this task should be undertaken. Factors Influencing the Frequency of a Website Redesign 1. Industry Trends Various industries experience rapid changes in trends, technology, and user expectations. For example, tech companies may need to redesign their websites annually to stay relevant, while others, such as those in traditional industries, may benefit from redesigning every two to three years. Keeping an eye on industry trends will help you determine the optimal redesign schedule for your specific context. 2. Technological Advancements Web technology is constantly evolving. New standards, frameworks, and tools are introduced regularly that can improve performance and user experience. If your website is built on outdated technology, it might be prudent to consider a redesign more frequently, potentially every two years. 3. User Feedback User interaction is a goldmine of information about how well your website performs. If you frequently receive feedback pointing out navigation issues, slow load times, or other usability problems, it’s a clear sign that a redesign is overdue. Listening to your users can guide you to redesign your website more regularly if needed. 4. Business Growth As your business grows, its needs may change. A website that served well at one stage of growth may not accommodate an expanding product line or increased user traffic. If your business scenario changes significantly, such as launching new products or services, a website redesign becomes necessary. In such cases, you might find yourself redesigning every time there’s a major business milestone. 5. Analytics and Performance Metrics Website performance metrics are essential when determining the need for a redesign. If you notice a significant drop in conversion rates, page views, or an increase in bounce rates, it might be time to revisit your website’s design. Constantly monitoring analytics can help you pinpoint when a website redesign is essential. When Is the Right Time for a Website Redesign? Now that we’ve identified the factors influencing redesign frequency, how do you know when the time is right? Here are a few guidelines: Every 1-2 Years: If you are in a fast-paced industry, consider a redesign every one to two years. Every 2-3 Years: For more stable industries, every two to three years may suffice. As Needed: Some triggers, like poor performance metrics or user feedback pointing to navigation issues, should warrant immediate action regardless of the time elapsed since the last redesign. Final Thoughts Determining how often you should redesign your website is essential for maintaining an effective online presence. Industry trends, technological advancements, user feedback, business growth, and performance metrics all play critical roles in this decision. By taking a proactive approach to website redesign, you ensure that your website remains fresh, functional, and in alignment with both user expectations and business goals. If you’re looking for website design services , Olive Street Design can help refresh your website and help you maintain it.

Behind the shift from traditional to descriptive domain names — and what it means for your brand

May 16, 2025
Take a glance at the browser bar of the last website you visited. Chances are the URL includes a traditional, three-letter domain to the right of the dot. Since the invention of the internet in 1983, traditional domain names have been used across many websites. But these legacy domains aren't always the most effective for small businesses looking to reach their customers, especially in an online space that's more congested than ever. To get noticed, brands are adopting a .pro domain name. Read full article here

Build the Fire Before You Sell the Flame: How Small Teams Can Win with Story, Strategy, and Sales

April 8, 2025
If you’re running a small business team, then you already know the grind. There’s no cushy marketing department ten cubicles deep. You’ve got a lean crew, maybe some freelancers, and just enough time to either finish the project or tell people about it—but rarely both. Still, you’ve got something that no bloated corporation can replicate: a story people want to root for. That’s your superpower, and if you can craft a compelling pitch, design a smart marketing strategy, and sell the soul of your brand, you’ll turn curious browsers into loyal fans—no fancy C-suite needed. Speak Like You Mean It First things first: people don’t buy products, they buy conviction. A strong sales pitch isn’t about rattling off features or tossing out buzzwords like confetti. It’s about sharing the why — what gets your team out of bed and what your offering solves in a way no one else can. Let your passion lead, stay conversational (ditch the jargon), and practice enough to sound like you haven’t rehearsed at all. If you’re excited and grounded, your listener will lean in—and maybe even pull out a credit card. Learn While You Lead When you’re running a small business, it’s easy to feel like you’re learning everything the hard way—and sometimes, you are. Going back to school for a business degree can give you the structure, strategy, and skillset you’ve been piecing together on the fly. Earning a Bachelor in Business Management will help you gain skills in operations, marketing, and sales—all critical for scaling what you’ve already built. And with online degree programs designed for working professionals, you don’t have to pause your business to invest in your growth. Create Curiosity, Not Clutter The best marketing doesn't scream; it whispers to the right people. Instead of chasing every trend, double down on understanding your audience and what actually makes them stop scrolling. It could be a great hook in an email subject line, a story-driven Instagram reel, or a brutally honest blog post. When your messaging feels more like a coffee shop conversation than a sales funnel, you’re on the right track. People remember how you made them feel, not how often you showed up. Root Your Brand in Reality There’s a lot of talk about storytelling in marketing—and a lot of it misses the mark. Your narrative shouldn’t sound like it was cooked up in a branding workshop with mood boards and scented candles. It should feel lived-in. Talk about the early days, the missteps, the moment you knew you were onto something . The power is in the specific: not “we value quality” but “we hand-check every item before it ships.” The more your audience sees your fingerprints, the more likely they are to trust you. Make Every Touchpoint Count Branding doesn’t stop at the logo. It's in the tone of your emails, the packaging you send, even the way your contact form talks to someone at 2 a.m. after they’ve had a long day. Every interaction is a chance to either reinforce trust or raise a little doubt. That doesn’t mean being flashy—it means being intentional. The small details show people you care, and caring is what sells. Use Constraints as Catalysts You don’t need a dozen team members to create something remarkable. In fact, fewer cooks can make a sharper soup. When you’re limited in time, budget, or bandwidth, it forces you to focus on what really matters. Embrace the scrappy mindset: reuse content in clever ways , build templates that can be tweaked instead of redesigned, and don’t be afraid to automate the boring stuff. Simplicity isn’t lazy—it’s efficient, and your audience will feel the clarity. Don’t Let Your Website Look Shabby Here’s a truth too many small businesses learn the hard way: your website is either working for you or against you. It’s not just a digital business card; it’s where first impressions get locked in. If your site loads slowly, confuses people, or looks like it was last updated when MySpace was still a thing, you’re losing trust and sales. That’s where a studio like Olive + Ash Design comes in. They specialize in custom Duda web design that not only looks polished but also tells your story in a way that clicks (literally and emotionally). Don’t treat your website like an afterthought—it should be your best employee. Earn Trust With Consistency You don’t need to be everywhere—you just need to show up where it counts, again and again. The most successful small teams don’t promise more than they can deliver, and they always deliver what they promised. Whether it’s hitting a shipping window, replying to DMs within a day, or publishing your newsletter like clockwork, consistency is what makes people say, “I’ll buy from them again.” Trust isn’t built with one big splashy campaign —it’s built with one dependable action after another. Running a small business is a high-wire act, no doubt. But it’s also a chance to build something deeply personal, something that reflects not just your vision but your values. When you learn how to tell your story clearly, market with intention, and pitch with purpose, your size becomes an asset, not a limitation. People want to support businesses that feel human—and that’s your lane. So go all in. Be bold. And if you ever need a digital home that does your story justice, you know who to call. Discover how Olive + Ash Design can transform your business vision into reality with innovative designs and expert digital marketing strategies. Visit Olive + Ash Design to start your journey to success today!
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