Marketing

Link Locally: Fostering Real Connections in Southland’s Business Scene

Networking isn’t just about swapping contact details; it’s about forging real connections that enrich both your personal and professional life. Here in Southland, we’re fortunate to have vibrant groups like the New Zealand Businesswomen Network, Southland Business Chamber, and Coin South. These organizations not only foster professional growth but also provide personal support and community engagement. Whether you’re new to the scene or a seasoned pro, these networks are invaluable for anyone looking to make meaningful advancements in their career.

Putting a Face to the Name
Networking provides the initial benefit of visibility within the business community. By attending group meetings and participating in events, members become more than just a name on a business card. These personal interactions help in building lasting relationships that are the foundation of meaningful business connections.

Support for every stage
Southland’s networking groups are inclusive, catering to individuals at various stages of their professional journey. For newcomers, these groups offer a welcoming environment to seek advice on getting their business off the ground. Experienced professionals find value in the diverse perspectives and mentorship opportunities. The supportive nature of these groups often leads to long-term professional relationships and a sense of community.

Building Confidence in Public Speaking
Engaging with strangers is an art, and it’s crucial for presenting and proposing new ideas confidently. Our networking events provide a safe space to practice and polish your public speaking skills, helping you present your business with confidence.

Advice and Growth
Many networking groups organize workshops, seminars, and talks by seasoned entrepreneurs and business leaders. These events serve as a resource for valuable business insights and strategies for growth. Members benefit from the shared knowledge and practical advice, which can be crucial in scaling their operations and navigating market challenges.

Sharing Successes and Challenges
One of the most significant advantages of being part of a networking group is having a platform to share both challenges and successes. These discussions are not only cathartic but also immensely beneficial in gaining insights from peers who may have faced similar situations. Celebrating successes together fosters a positive environment that motivates all members to strive for further achievements.

Diverse Perspectives and Collaborative Opportunities
The diverse makeup of networking groups often leads to innovative ideas and collaborations that might not have been possible in more homogeneous environments. These collaborations can open new markets, enhance product offerings, or streamline operations, proving that collective efforts often lead to substantial benefits.

Networking in Southland is about much more than increasing business opportunities; it’s about building a support network that nurtures both personal and professional growth. By engaging actively with local networking groups, professionals can enjoy a richer, more connected business experience.

Need a pointer on where to start?
Reach out to us for recommendations on how best to engage with these groups. We’re excited to help you forge connections that not only develop your business but also support your personal growth. See you out ther

Marketing

In Southland, We Tell Our Story Differently

In Southland, We Tell Our Story Differently

 

The Power of Local: Why Understanding Your Market Matters
Marketing today can feel like it’s all about algorithms, paid reach, and mass-market tactics. But in Southland, business doesn’t work like that—it’s about real relationships, trust, and genuine connection.

That’s not to say strategy doesn’t matter—it absolutely does.

A great marketing plan is essential, but in Southland, strategy alone is not good enough. Success here isn’t just about crafting the right message; it’s about knowing who needs to hear it, how to reach them, and why they should care. It’s about understanding the people behind the businesses, the industries that drive the region, and the connections that keep it all moving forward.

Southland is a place where you don’t just send an email and hope for the best—you pick up the phone, and you know the person on the other end. It’s a region built on trust, reputation, and relationships that actually mean something. And that’s exactly why local marketing expertise is invaluable for meaningful business growth.

Back 9 Design, Elm Marketing, Naked Creative, and Talk Visual are four Southland-based agencies that understand this better than anyone. They don’t just work here—they’re part of the fabric of the business community.

Together, they help businesses not just get noticed, but be understood, trusted, and engaged with in a way that drives results. And they do it by blending strategy with real relationships—the kind of relationships that make things happen in Southland.

The Southland Marketing Ecosystem: Where Strategy Meets Connection
Each of these agencies brings something different to the table, but they all operate within the Southland business ecosystem, making sure marketing isn’t just well-planned, it’s well-connected.

  • Back 9 Design makes sure businesses have a strong and effective online presence, developing digital strategies that engage with the right people.
  • Elm Marketing supports growing businesses by delivering strategic, creative marketing that helps them stand out, connect with their audience, and contribute to the region’s cultural and economic vibrancy.
  • Naked Creative works closely with industries, businesses, and food producers, helping them shape their narratives and position themselves locally, nationally, and internationally.
  • Talk Visual specialises in design-focused marketing, blending creativity with a strong local focus to ensure businesses are seen, remembered, and engaged with in meaningful ways.

But it’s not just about what they do—it’s about how they do it. They know that Southland marketing isn’t just about pushing out ads, it’s about telling the right stories, building relationships, and making sure businesses connect with the right people in the right way.

Southland is a region where business is personal, where success is built on trust, relationships, and a deep understanding of the local landscape. Here, word-of-mouth and personal networks drive opportunities, and marketing isn’t just about visibility—it’s about connection. People do business with those they trust, and the most effective marketing strategies are rooted in authenticity, long-term relationships, and a genuine respect for the region’s values. In Southland, hard work, loyalty, and mutual respect matter, and local agencies get the nuances. They understand how to craft marketing that feels real, resonates with people, and delivers results.

They prove that the best marketing happens when strategy is supported by relationships, trust, and a deep local understanding.

Because here in Southland, success isn’t just about reaching people, it’s about knowing them.

Marketing

Unlock Business Growth with Elm Marketing

In today’s competitive market, effective marketing is not just about making sales—it’s about creating lasting relationships. That’s where Elm Marketing steps in. With our Partnership Package, we go beyond traditional marketing services to become an integral part of your team, dedicated to your long-term growth.

Empowering Your Business Through Strategic Partnerships

At Elm Marketing, we understand that growth is a journey that requires continuous effort and expert support. Our Partnership Package is designed to empower this journey, providing you with not just services, but a strategic partnership. This package ensures that your marketing efforts are aligned with your business goals, driving sustainable growth through tailored strategies and consistent execution.

What Does the Partnership Package Include?

Strategic Marketing Support: We offer comprehensive support designed to align with your strategic goals, enhancing your brand’s presence and market reach.

Expert Team Access: Gain full access to our experienced team of marketing professionals who are committed to elevating your brand.

Regular Consultations and Check-Ins: We ensure that our strategies are in perfect sync with your objectives through regular meetings and updates.

Digital and Creative Support: From managing your website and improving your SEO to handling your social media and creative design, our team covers all bases to ensure your digital presence is strong and coherent.

Exclusive Benefits of Partnering with Elm Marketing

Choosing our Partnership Package means you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits such as discounted rates and premium services. This setup allows you to focus on your core business activities while we efficiently manage your marketing efforts. It’s a cost-effective solution that provides high value, ensuring that every dollar you invest in marketing works harder for you.

Beyond Ordinary: Grow Your Business with Us

Joining hands with Elm Marketing means you’re ready to unlock new opportunities and catalyse your business growth. Our collaborative approach ensures that your brand not only gains momentum but does so in a way that preserves your brand’s identity and values.

If you’re looking to not just compete but lead in your industry, the Elm Marketing Partnership Package is your gateway to success. With us, you’re not outsourcing; you’re enhancing your team with experts who are as invested in your success as you are.

Ready to transform your marketing approach and see real growth? Book a discovery session with us today at Elm Marketing. 

Let’s plant those seeds for growth together and watch your business flourish.

Marketing

Understanding Social Media Algorithms for Better Engagement

 

In the ever-evolving world of social media, staying visible and engaging to your audience can seem like a daunting task. In this blog, we delve into why regular posting can be your biggest ally in navigating social media algorithms and keeping your content alive in followers’ feeds.

The Power of Consistency:

Consistency in social media marketing does more than just keep your brand top of mind, it influences how algorithms assess and prioritise your content. Social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and Linked In, are designed to show users content that is not only relevant but also freshly updated. Regular posts signal to these algorithms that your content is current and potentially valuable to audiences, thus increasing the likelihood of higher visibility in feeds.

Understanding Social Media Algorithms:

Social media algorithms are complex systems that determine what content appears in each user’s feed. While the specifics of these algorithms are closely guarded secrets, one known factor is their affinity for consistency. These algorithms prioritize content from accounts that post regularly because frequent updates often correlate with engagement and relevance, two metrics that boost content visibility.

The Lifespan of Social Media Posts:

The lifespan of a social media post varies significantly across different platforms:

•On Twitter, the fast-paced nature means tweets can become buried within minutes to an hour.

•On Facebook, posts may have a slightly longer lifespan but typically only stay in the feed for about 5 to 6 hours.

•Instagram posts can remain visible for around 24 to 48 hours depending on engagement levels and other contributing factors.

Knowing this, strategising your posting schedule to optimise each platform’s unique characteristics is crucial.

Tips for Consistent Posting:

1.Content Calendar: Develop a content calendar that outlines what to post and when. This helps in maintaining a regular posting schedule and ensures your content strategy aligns with key business goals.

2.Quality Over Quantity: While consistency is critical, the quality of your content should not be compromised. Ensure each post offers value and aligns with your brand’s message.

3.Engagement: Actively engage with your audience. Respond to comments, participate in conversations, and encourage user interaction. Engagement helps in keeping your posts alive for longer as algorithms favour content that generates discussion.

4.Analytics: Utilise platform analytics to understand what works and what doesn’t. This data can guide your content strategy and posting frequency.

Mastering the rhythm of consistent content delivery can significantly enhance your social media presence. Remember, effective social media marketing isn’t just about frequent updates, but also about creating meaningful connections with your audience. Stay regular, stay relevant, and watch your digital relationships flourish.

Need assistance to improve your social media presence? 

At Elm Marketing, we offer 1:1 training and support to help you build confidence, gain new skills, and take control of your marketing. We can help you understand what to post, when to post, and how to engage your audience. Contact us to book in your session! 




Marketing

Want to Learn More About Marketing?

Want to Learn More About Marketing? Elm Marketing Offers 1:1 Training & Support

Marketing can feel overwhelming—there’s always something new to learn, algorithms to keep up with, and endless advice on what you should be doing. But what if you had a trusted guide to help you navigate it all?

At Elm Marketing, we offer 1:1 training and support to help you build confidence, gain new skills, and take control of your marketing. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your strategy, we’ll work with you at your own pace to ensure you get the support you need.

How We Can Help

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we tailor our training to suit your business goals. Here are some of the areas we can support you with:

  • Social Media Strategy & Content Planning – Understand what to post, when to post, and how to engage your audience.
  • SEO & Website Optimisation – Improve your website’s visibility so more people can find you online.
  • Email Marketing – Learn how to build and engage an email list that converts.
  • Canva Help – Create a strong, cohesive brand that reflects your business through Canva.
  • ChatGPT Training – Learn how to use ChatGPT to your advantage.
  • Analytics & Insights – Track your results so you can make informed marketing decisions.

Why Choose Elm Marketing?

We’re not here to overwhelm you with jargon or generic advice. Our 1:1 training is practical, approachable, and tailored to what you need. Whether you want hands-on training, a brainstorming session, or ongoing support, we’re here to help.

Looking to upskill and grow your business?

Get in touch with us today, and let’s chat about how we can support you.

Contact Us

Subscribe

Marketing

Elm Marketing Seed Pack

Overcoming Startup Hurdles with Elm Marketing’s Seed Pack

Starting a new business is an exhilarating journey filled with highs and lows. From the excitement of a new idea to the stress of making it work, every entrepreneur faces a unique set of challenges. At Elm Marketing, we understand these hurdles firsthand, which is why we’ve designed the Seed Pack—your essential toolkit for launching a successful brand with ease and confidence.

Understanding the Emotional Rollercoaster:

Embarking on a new business venture can be daunting. Entrepreneurs often experience a whirlwind of emotions: excitement for the future, fear of failure, and overwhelm from the unknown. It’s normal to feel a mix of optimism and anxiety as you step into the entrepreneurial world. Navigating these feelings requires not just courage but also the right support and tools to guide you.

Common Obstacles for Startups:

Brand Identity Creation: Many startups struggle to develop a cohesive and professional brand identity that truly represents their vision.

Digital Presence: Establishing a robust online presence that effectively attracts and engages the right audience can be technically and creatively challenging.

Resource Management: Limited resources mean that new business owners often wear many hats, from marketing manager to sales lead, which can stretch their capabilities thin.

Visibility and Reach: For any new business, getting noticed and finding the first customers is often the biggest hurdle.

How the Seed Pack Helps:

Elm Marketing’s Seed Pack is specifically designed to address these common startup challenges:

Simple Brand Creation: We bring your business vision to life with professional branding, offering two logo options and essential branding materials that make your business memorable.

Three-Page Website: Establish your online presence with a beautifully designed, user-friendly Squarespace website that grows with your business

Google Business Profile and Social Media Setup: We ensure you’re visible where it matters most, enhancing your local SEO and setting up your social media profiles for optimal engagement.

Project Management & Brand Guidelines: From start to finish, our project management ensures smooth delivery, and our brand guidelines help you maintain consistency as your business expands.

Why Choose the Seed Pack?

The Seed Pack isn’t just about providing marketing tools; it’s about giving new entrepreneurs peace of mind. Knowing you have a professional, cohesive brand and online presence allows you to focus more on growing your business and less on the technicalities of marketing. Elm Marketing has been in your shoes, and we’ve crafted the Seed Pack to make the beginning stages of business ownership as smooth and impactful as possible.

Starting a new business will always have its challenges, but with Elm Marketing’s Seed Pack, you’re never alone on this journey. We provide the tools and support you need to navigate the startup phase confidently. Ready to plant the seeds for your business’s future? Reach out to us today, and let’s start growing your dream into reality.

Subscribe

Marketing

Planning Your Business Growth for 2025

As the year draws to a close, it’s a natural moment to pause and reflect. It’s a time to look back at the past year’s achievements and challenges and to look forward with optimism to the new opportunities that the coming year might bring. At Elm Marketing, we understand the importance of taking this time to breathe and plan at your own pace.

The Importance of Reflection in Business:

Reflection is a powerful tool for business growth. It allows you to assess what strategies worked, what didn’t, and how you can improve moving forward. This process is not just about setting goals but understanding the path you’ve traveled and the lessons you’ve learned along the way.

Dreaming Big for 2025:

Dreaming big is essential for business innovation and growth. What visions do you have for your business in 2025? Whether it’s expanding your services, enhancing your digital presence, or refining your brand, now is the time to start shaping those dreams into actionable goals.

Jotting Down Your Ideas:

Why not start by jotting down any thoughts or ideas that come to mind? This simple act can transform abstract thoughts into concrete plans. Keep a notebook or digital document handy to capture these reflections; you never know when inspiration will strike.

Planning at Your Own Pace:

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to planning. Every business operates differently, and every business owner has their unique rhythm. Take the time you need to plan your strategy for 2025. When you’re ready to move from planning to action, remember that support is just a conversation away.

As you enjoy the festive season and look towards the new year, let’s keep in mind that great achievements start with a simple plan. At Elm Marketing, we’re excited to support you in turning your dreams into reality. We believe in nurturing ideas and watching them grow at your own pace. When you’re ready to kickstart your journey in 2025, we’ll be here to help!

Ready to Turn Your Ideas into Action?

Remember, we offer a complimentary discovery session to show how we can turn your idea into a clear vision. This no-obligation chat is the perfect way to start your new year with confidence. Reach out to us, share your thoughts, and let’s explore how we can bring your business vision to life together.

Start your journey today by scheduling your session and let 2025 be the year of making things happen.

Subscribe

Marketing

5 Solid Reasons to Partner with a Marketing Agency

Looking to boost your business’s marketing strategy? Partnering with a marketing agency can bring significant advantages. Here’s why collaborating with marketing experts is a savvy choice for busy business owners.

Special Skills, No Fuss

Imagine having immediate access to a team of digital marketing experts, fully equipped with specialised skills in SEO (Search Engine Optimisation), PPC (Pay-Per-Click), and social media management. These marketing gurus are ready to go, no training needed. At Elm Marketing, we seamlessly integrate with your business, aligning our advanced marketing strategies with your objectives.

Save Your Money

Outsourcing to a marketing agency cuts down significant costs related to hiring full-time employees—say goodbye to high salaries, benefits, and the need for extra office space. Adjust your marketing budget as needed, ensuring cost-effective marketing solutions. We ensure every marketing dollar you invest works harder for you.

Always in the Know

The digital marketing landscape is ever-evolving. Staying ahead of the latest marketing trends and technologies is crucial, and that’s where we come in. We keep your marketing strategies sharp and effective, ensuring your business remains competitive in a bustling market.

Focus on Your Core Business

Let us take care of the complex marketing campaigns and strategic planning. This allows you, the business owner, to concentrate on core business activities—where you shine. We handle the marketing side, ensuring your business’s marketing efforts are robust and results-driven.

Comprehensive Marketing Skills

From creating visually appealing web designs to executing compelling marketing campaigns and managing social media platforms, our team offers a full suite of marketing services. We go beyond basic marketing tactics to deliver comprehensive, integrated marketing solutions that capture and engage your target audience.

 

Is Elm Marketing the boost your business needs? If you’re a busy business owner looking to enhance your marketing efforts and see tangible growth, let’s connect. Contact us today, and let’s craft a marketing strategy that makes your business stand out and succeed.

Subscribe

Marketing

Future-Proof Marketing: Embracing Change in 2024

The Erosion of Consumer Trust

As 2024 progresses, the erosion of consumer trust in brands continues. Now more than ever, companies need to focus on transparency and authenticity to mend and strengthen relationships. It’s not just about selling products—it’s about demonstrating your brand’s value and integrity consistently.

AI: The Essential Marketing Tool

Artificial intelligence has evolved from a novel strategy to a foundational tool in marketing this year. AI’s capabilities in personalisation and predictive analysis are now crucial parts of a marketer’s toolkit, helping to tailor and enhance customer interactions at every touchpoint.

AI Ethics: Establishing Clear Standards

With the increasing integration of AI in marketing, the call for ethical guidelines has grown louder. This year, we are seeing a push towards establishing clear standards that ensure AI is used responsibly, safeguarding consumer rights and privacy without stifling innovation.

Conversational Marketing: Engaging Dialogues

The era of one-way communication is behind us. Today’s consumers demand and value dialogue, making conversational marketing a critical strategy. Brands that are engaging in this two-way exchange are forging stronger, more meaningful relationships with their audiences.

Virtual and Augmented Realities: Merging Worlds

Virtual and augmented reality technologies have shifted from being futuristic concepts to practical marketing tools. They offer new ways to engage customers by merging digital and physical realms, providing immersive experiences that redefine audience interaction.

The Short-Form Video Surge

The demand for concise, engaging content continues to rise. Short-form videos, particularly on platforms like TikTok, have become a dominant form of communication, resonating powerfully with audiences across Aotearoa and globally.

Redefining Advertising: Embracing Self-Service

2024 marks a significant shift towards self-service advertising platforms as marketers seek greater control over their data and campaigns. This move is driven by a need to better utilize first-party data and reduce reliance on big tech firms like Meta and Google, allowing brands to directly shape their advertising strategies.

Looking Forward

As the year unfolds, adaptability, ethical practices, and innovative engagement remain paramount. The marketing landscape is undoubtedly complex, but the future holds exciting opportunities for those who navigate these changes with strategic foresight and creativity.

Subscribe

Marketing

The Art and Strategy of Brand Development at Elm Marketing

In today’s hyper-competitive market, brand development is a crucial necessity. But what does it really mean to develop your brand? It’s about much more than just a logo or a catchy tagline; it’s about defining the essence of who you are as a business—from your products and services to the voice you use to communicate. At Elm Marketing, we understand that brand development is about crafting the perfect vibe that resonates with your audience while aligning seamlessly with your business goals and values.

Understanding Your Identity

The first step in brand development is understanding and defining your brand identity. This encompasses everything your company represents, including the quality of your products or services, your customer service style, your visual aesthetics, and the tone of your communications. It’s about how your brand feels, looks, and speaks to the public. At Elm Marketing, we dive deep into discovering what makes your brand unique. We look at your strengths, your market positioning, and how your audience perceives you. This process ensures that your brand’s outward expressions are true reflections of your inner values.

Crafting Your Vibe

Once we understand your brand’s DNA, it’s time to craft the vibe. This is where creativity meets strategy. Whether it’s redesigning your logo, developing a new visual theme, or overhauling your marketing materials, our team ensures that every element is cohesive and on-brand. But it’s not just about aesthetics; it’s also about your message. How do you communicate with your audience? What’s your brand’s voice? Is it professional, playful, authoritative, or friendly? We help you nail down the tone that best speaks to your target demographic, ensuring consistency across all platforms—from your website to social media to print advertising.

Standing Out in the Market

Brand development also involves positioning yourself in the market in a way that highlights your uniqueness against competitors. It’s crucial to not only understand your own business but also have a clear grasp of the market dynamics. What are your competitors doing well? Where do they lack? What opportunities can you leverage? At Elm Marketing, we conduct comprehensive competitor analyses to help you capitalize on gaps in the market, making your brand not just another player, but a preferred choice.

Long-term Strategy and Growth

More than just a one-time effort, brand development is an ongoing process of adaptation and growth. As your business evolves, so too should your brand. We work with you to ensure that your branding stays relevant and effective, helping you to not only meet but exceed market demands.

Let’s take your brand to the next level

We’re here to help every step of the way. From initial concept to ongoing brand management, Elm Marketing is your partner in building a brand that stands out and succeeds. Book a chat with us today and start your journey to clearer brand identity and remarkable business growth.

Subscribe

Load more posts

A full suite Marketing Agency based in Invercargill.
Helping your business grow.

Facebook-f Instagram Linkedin

Quick links