The cannabis industry is growing quickly, which is great news. But it also means there’s a lot more competition, and it can be hard to make your business stand out. That’s why having a solid digital marketing plan is important. It will help more people find your cannabis products and, in turn, help you sell more. Here’s an 18-step guide to get your cannabis business noticed online.
1. Create a Google My Business (GMB) Profile
Start by setting up a Google My Business profile. This helps people find your cannabis business when they search “cannabis store near me” or “dispensary in [your location].” Make sure to fill out all the information, like your hours, address, and contact info. Don’t forget to ask happy customers to leave reviews, which will make your business more trustworthy and visible.
2. Focus on Local SEO
If you want people in your area to find you, local SEO is key. Use local keywords like “best dispensary in [your city]” on your website and GMB page. Make sure your business shows up in Google’s top local results, also called the “3-pack.” This will make it easier for people nearby to discover your cannabis shop.
3. Build a Great Website
Your website is like a 24/7 store for your cannabis business. It needs to be easy to navigate, have clear buttons (like “Shop Now” or “Order Online”), and look good on phones. Don’t forget to add SEO keywords so people can find you in searches.
4. Use Google Ads for Fast Results
Google Ads can quickly get your cannabis business to the top of search results. However, certain cannabis-related terms may be restricted, so make sure to follow Google’s advertising rules. If you run into trouble, you might need help from a professional marketer to guide you. Here’s a link to more info on Google Ads for Cannabis.
5. Master SEO for Long-Term Success
To get steady traffic to your cannabis website, invest in good cannabis SEO (Search Engine Optimization). This means making sure your website loads fast, has good keywords, and gets links from other trusted websites. Doing this will help you rank higher in search results and get more visitors over time.
6. Start Content Marketing
Content marketing is all about sharing helpful information with your audience. Write blog posts, make videos, or create guides about your cannabis products. This will show people that you know your stuff and help them trust your brand. Plus, it will help your website rank higher in searches. Learn more about Cannabis content marketing.
7. Try Email Marketing
Email marketing is a great way to stay in touch with your customers. Send them updates, deals, and info about new cannabis products. Make sure your emails are interesting, so they click through to your website and make a purchase.
8. Run Social Media Ads
Advertising on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter can help get your cannabis brand in front of a lot of people. You can target specific groups, like people in your area or those interested in cannabis. Just make sure your social media pages have good content to keep visitors interested when they check out your profile.
9. Create a Referral Program
Happy customers are your best marketing tool. Create a referral program where they get a discount or reward for telling their friends about your cannabis business. It’s a great way to get more people to check out your store.
10. Use Social Media for Free Marketing
You don’t have to pay for ads to use social media. Post regularly about your cannabis products, promotions, and news to keep your followers engaged. Sharing stories, customer reviews, and product highlights can help build a community around your brand.
11. Get Involved in Your Local Community
One way to get noticed is by engaging with your local community. Sponsor events, donate to causes, or participate in local activities. This shows people that you care about the community, which can lead to more customers and positive word-of-mouth.
12. Ask for Customer Reviews
Customer reviews help build trust. Ask your happy customers to leave reviews on your website, social media, or Google My Business page. Even negative reviews can help—responding thoughtfully shows potential customers that you care about their experience.
13. Start a Cannabis Blog
A cannabis blog can be a great way to drive traffic to your website. Write about different strains, how to use products or the latest cannabis trends. This kind of helpful content not only attracts customers but also boosts your website’s ranking in search engines.
14. Partner with Local Businesses
Team up with nearby businesses that complement your cannabis brand. This could be anything from local cafes to yoga studios. You can offer their customers discounts on your products, and they can promote your cannabis business in return.
15. Try Traditional Advertising
While most marketing is online these days, don’t forget about traditional advertising. Flyers, posters, and even local radio ads can help you reach people who might not find you online. Offer special deals to get them to visit your website.
16. Host a Special Event
Hosting an event, like a cannabis education night or a product launch, can bring people into your store or get them to visit your site. Promote the event on social media and through email marketing to get the word out.
17. Offer Discounts for First-Time Buyers
Give new customers a reason to try your products by offering special discounts. This can be done through email marketing, social media, or even Google Ads. Once they’ve tried your cannabis products and had a great experience, they’ll be more likely to come back.
18. Hire a Cannabis Marketing Agency
If all this sounds like a lot of work, consider hiring a professional marketing agency that specializes in cannabis. They’ll handle your marketing, so you can focus on running your business. These experts know how to avoid pitfalls with ads and SEO, ensuring you get the best results.
By following these 18 steps, your cannabis business can attract more customers, build trust, and grow in a competitive market. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, a strong digital marketing strategy will set you on the path to success.
