by threshold | Apr 24, 2024 | Creative, Culture, Design, Digital Marketing, General, Marketing, Thought Leadership
Laura Robbins
In today’s dynamic marketplace, where consumers are bombarded with choices, establishing a distinct brand voice is paramount for standing out and building meaningful connections with your audience. Whether you’re a real estate property, a credit union, or a boutique hotel, a compelling brand identity weaves together words and emotions to convey a coherent and resonant message.
Let’s explore the art of developing a voice that aligns with your brand’s identity and strikes a chord with your target audience.
understanding your brand’s identity.
Back up, back up, back up. Before you even begin to explore your brand’s voice, you first need to ensure you’ve established your brand’s identity.
What values does your brand stand for?
What sets it apart from competitors?
What emotions do you want to evoke in your audience?
By delving into these questions, you can uncover the essence of your brand and lay the foundation for developing a distinct voice that encapsulates its personality.
Take Threshold’s brand voice for instance. One of our corporate values is that we’re both professional and playful. That value is woven throughout our voice. We like to get the job done and do an amazing job at that, and we like to have a laugh or two along the way. A witty joke or pun is welcome – and oftentimes encouraged – in these parts.
audience insight: listening to consumer needs.
Understanding your target audience is crucial for shaping your brand voice. Conduct thorough research to gain insights into your audience’s demographics, psychographics, and pain points.
What language resonates with them?
What tone elicits the desired emotional response?
Go so far as crafting personas for your brand so you can better tailor your voice and messaging to your audience. Having this distinct persona will also allow you to quality-check your brand’s messaging as it gets put into use, ensuring what you’re saying is relevant to your target audience.
maintaining your voice across touchpoints.
Remember that thing we said above, about quality-checking your brand voice? Yeah – it’s important.
Consistency is the bedrock of a strong brand voice. Maintaining a unified voice across all marketing touchpoints reinforces your brand’s identity and fosters trust with your audience. Whether it’s your website copy, social media posts, or customer support interactions, ensure that your brand voice remains consistent in tone, style, and messaging to deepen relationships with your audience.
it’s ok to be flexible.
Yeah, ok, the odd rule is meant to be broken, is it not? While consistency is essential, it’s also important to recognize that the marketplace is constantly evolving, and consumer preferences may change over time.
Your brand voice should be flexible enough to resonate with changing trends and audience dynamics. Continuously monitor feedback, stay attuned to cultural shifts, and be willing to adjust your brand voice accordingly to maintain relevance and resonance.
Threshold did just that! We underwent a brand refresh in 2023 to better align our creative direction, messaging, and services to our clients and their needs.
be yourself.
Above all, authenticity is the core of a compelling brand voice. Consumers are attracted to brands that authentically express their values and beliefs. Be genuine, transparent, and true to your brand’s identity in every communication. Authenticity not only fosters deeper connections with your audience, but also builds loyalty and advocacy over time.
to sum it all up.
By understanding your brand’s identity, listening attentively to your audience, maintaining consistency, embracing flexibility, and embodying authenticity, you can elevate your brand above the noise and leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Remember, the marriage of words and brand identity is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Let your brand voice be what captivates, inspires, and connects with your audience.
Now that you know how essential a brand voice is, let Threshold help you craft one! We use carefully curated data to deliver positioning and messaging full of strategic potential. Our experienced team weeds out stale approaches to deliver fresh perspectives and brand guidelines that empower future asset creation. And we’ll make you go wow in the process. Promise.
Get in touch with us today!
about the author.
Laura is the brand strategist here at Threshold (so when it comes to all things branding – take her word for it). She embodies all of the best part of what creative marketing is all about, bringing life to brands across the spectrum, and highlighting all of the best aspects that a company, property, business, or any other brand has to offer its consumers.
When she’s not bringing brands to life at Threshold, Laura loves spending time with her husband, son, friends, and family – and she’s even got a little one on the way! Whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones, traveling, trying new restaurants, or working on her novel (yep – she does it all), Laura is the definition of someone who lives to get all of the best things out of life, and we love her for it.
by threshold | Apr 16, 2024 | Digital Marketing, General, Marketing, Tech/Web
Ava Page
When it comes to the world of digital marketing, change is not just inevitable – it’s the norm. At Threshold, we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve. That’s why we’re here to provide you with a deep dive into the upcoming changes to cookies, and how they’ll impact your business, your marketing, and your brand.
understanding cookies: pillars of personalized online experiences.
Cookies, those tiny digital crumbs, play a monumental role in shaping your online journey. But what exactly are cookies? Imagine them as digital footprints left behind as you navigate the vast landscape of the internet. They’re small pieces of data stored on your browser that help websites remember information about you.
This can range from remembering your login details to tailoring product recommendations based on your browsing history. In essence, cookies are the cornerstone of delivering seamless and customized experiences to customers, especially in the retail sector.
Google’s bold move: unraveling the implications.
Google’s recent announcement about phasing out third-party cookies on Chrome has sent ripples through the digital marketing community. But why is this such a seismic shift? Well, probably because Google is the last major browser that allows third-party cookies by default, representing a whopping 60% of browser use.
So, why is Google making this change? The answer lies in the growing concerns surrounding user privacy and data protection. Third-party cookies have long been criticized for their invasive nature, tracking users across the web without their explicit consent. By phasing out these cookies, Google aims to enhance user privacy and security, aligning with evolving regulatory standards and consumer expectations.
While this move may seem daunting, it’s important to note that we’re not venturing into a cookieless world just yet. Third-party cookies remain integral for website functionality, particularly in the retail sector where targeted advertising is paramount.
Despite Google’s incremental steps, such as the testing of deprecating a small percentage of cookies since January 2024, there’s lingering uncertainty surrounding the feasibility of meeting the July 2024 deadline. The introduction of Google’s Privacy Sandbox initiative, featuring alternative methods like the Topics API and Fenced Frames, has sparked both curiosity and concern within the industry. These initiatives aim to provide advertisers with viable alternatives to third-party cookies while preserving user privacy and fostering a more transparent digital ecosystem.
addressing concerns and crafting a strategy.
In light of these changes, concerns have emerged from industry stakeholders, including the International Advertising Bureau (IAB) and the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). Questions regarding market dominance, fairness, and transparency loom large, prompting businesses to rethink their advertising strategies.
One significant challenge arising from the phasing out of third-party cookies is the potential gap in conversion tracking. Without the ability to track user behavior across websites using traditional cookie-based methods, businesses may face difficulties in accurately measuring the effectiveness of their marketing efforts and attributing conversions.
However, amidst these challenges lies an opportunity for growth and innovation. At Threshold, we’re committed to guiding you through this transition. Through proactive client education, meticulous risk assessment, and rigorous testing efforts, we’ll ensure you’re well-equipped to navigate the evolving digital landscape.
By fostering collaboration with our expert digital team and harnessing the power of first-party data strategies, we’ll help you adapt to the changing terrain while maintaining your competitive edge. Our approach includes leveraging alternative tracking methods, such as first-party cookies and server-side tracking, to close the gap in conversion tracking and provide valuable insights into your customers’ journey. With our tailored strategies and innovative solutions, you can continue to drive results and achieve your business objectives in a cookie-less world.
embracing opportunities.
As we bid farewell to third-party cookies, it’s time to explore new avenues for digital marketing. From real estate to financial institutions – and everywhere in between – we’re being presented with exciting opportunities, where strategies emphasizing brand awareness and contextual targeting are gaining momentum, offering a fresh perspective on consumer engagement.
While the road ahead may be uncertain, it’s also brimming with potential. By prioritizing consumer preferences, transparency, and resilience, we can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.
to sum things up.
Change is not just a challenge; it’s an invitation to evolve. Together, let’s embrace the cookie revolution and pave the way for a more consumer-centric and privacy-conscious digital future. At Threshold, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to take this conversation further with a marketing expert? Reach out to our THeam today for all the answers you’re looking for.
before you go.
For more tips and information about marketing your everything, take a look at the rest of our blogs, right here on our website!
You can also subscribe to our email newsletter (it’s got some great stuff), and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn!
about the author.
Ava is the SEO & Paid Media Specialist at Threshold.
In her role, she is responsible for the content creation and management of all Threshold and PromoShak social channels, blog content, and SEO maintenance, and aids in internal and client-facing digital marketing strategies.
When she’s not busy creating content, you can usually find her picking out new plants, island-hopping, watching Duke basketball, or spending time with her fur babies.
by threshold | Apr 10, 2024 | General
Michael Pratt
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, businesses are increasingly recognizing the profound impact of sustainability on their online success. Beyond mere aesthetics and functionality, sustainable web design stands as a beacon of eco-conscious innovation, promising not only higher site traffic and conversions but also a brighter, greener future. Let’s explore how prioritizing sustainability in web design can catalyze remarkable growth for businesses while championing environmental stewardship.
elevating user experience with sustainable practices.
Sustainability isn’t just about reducing carbon footprints; it’s about enhancing every aspect of the user journey. By embracing minimalist layouts, optimizing code for efficiency, and prioritizing renewable resources, sustainable web design fosters an immersive user experience that resonates deeply with eco-conscious consumers. When visitors encounter a website that reflects their values of sustainability, they’re not just browsing – they’re engaging with a brand that speaks their language.
climbing the ranks with eco-friendly optimization.
Search engines have become gatekeepers of the digital realm, and sustainability is increasingly becoming a key criterion for ranking. Websites that load quickly, adapt seamlessly across devices, and prioritize energy-efficient hosting solutions are rewarded with higher visibility in search engine results. Sustainable web design isn’t just about pleasing algorithms; it’s about forging a symbiotic relationship with the environment while ascending the ranks of digital prominence.
empowering mobile users through green innovation.
In a world where smartphones reign supreme, sustainable web design ensures that no user is left behind. By crafting mobile-responsive experiences that conserve resources and minimize energy consumption, businesses can empower users to engage with their brands anytime, anywhere. Sustainable web design isn’t just about adapting to mobile devices; it’s about empowering a mobile generation to make conscious choices that resonate with the planet.
reducing bounce rates with sustainable speed.
Every wasted second is a missed opportunity in the digital realm. Sustainable web design prioritizes speed, efficiency, and optimization to minimize bounce rates and maximize conversions. By streamlining navigation, compressing images, and leveraging caching techniques, businesses can create websites that load in the blink of an eye, captivating visitors and inspiring them to explore further.
cultivating a reputation rooted in sustainability.
In a world where brands are under constant scrutiny, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a badge of honor. By embracing sustainable web design, businesses signal their commitment to environmental stewardship, earning the trust and loyalty of eco-conscious consumers. A website that embodies sustainability isn’t just a digital storefront; it’s a testament to a brand’s values and a beacon of inspiration for a greener tomorrow.
to wrap things up.
In the quest for digital dominance, sustainability isn’t just an afterthought – it’s the cornerstone of long-term success. By embracing eco-conscious web design practices, businesses can drive higher site traffic, boost conversions, and forge deeper connections with consumers who share their commitment to the planet. In the digital frontier of tomorrow, sustainability isn’t just an option – it’s the path to prosperity and progress.
before you go.
For more tips and information about marketing your everything, take a look at the rest of our blogs, right here on our website!
You can also subscribe to our email newsletter (it’s got some great stuff), and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn!
about the author.
Michael is the WordPress Designer and Developer here at Threshold.
As a seasoned UI/UX & Web Designer based in Chicago, Michael brings over six years of experience to Threshold’s creative team, creating top-notch web designs, applications, and user-friendly interfaces with marketing at the forefront.
His love for pushing boundaries and collaborating with others on new projects is matched only by his commitment to delivering outstanding work. He always takes a holistic approach to design, expertly weaving traditional techniques with the latest advancements to bring exceptional results to life.
When he’s not killing the creative game, here are some fun facts about how Michael enjoys his free time:
- I recently lived on the West Coast for 3 years and got to hike some of the most incredible mountains! Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens to name a few.
- I studied herbalism, ayurveda, and alternative healing. Paired with basic nutrition knowledge, I’ve been able to help friends and family live a better quality of life.
- I did an internship as a videographer with Creature Skateboards and got to meet several professional skateboarders, filming for promos and events.
- I have family located in Athens, Greece and it is one of my favorite places to visit!
- I recently started learning Judo martial arts and it is an exciting endeavor along with my many other fitness goals!
by threshold | Apr 4, 2024 | Creative, Design, Digital Marketing, General, Marketing, Tech/Web
PeakMade Real Estate came to us needing a platform that allowed for a more streamlined approach to websites across their portfolio and understood that the user journey is different across their various markets.
So we did what we do best, implementing website templates optimized for Peak’s audiences that have significantly reduced website development time and include a custom Entrata integration that converts better than any leading property management software on the market.
when we say best, we mean it.
We wanted to not only simplify website development but also provide PeakMade’s portfolio with a marketing tool that amplified lead generation. Each template design was to be innovative, with thoughtful movement of content to engage the viewer while not overwhelming them.
Our adaptable designs show an immediate improvement in conversion rates in the PeakMade portfolio, with lower costs to acquire leads when comparing the performance of their pay-per-click campaigns year-over-year from pre-templated Threshold websites to post.
Claremont Collegiate Apartments in Claremont, CA. saw:
- A 213% increase in conversion rate
- A 65% decrease in cost per conversion
University Gateway in Los Angeles, CA. saw:
- A 1,607% increase in conversion rate
- An 83% decrease in cost per conversion
Impressed? See more for yourself.
a custom integration? you got it.
Up until now, Entrata’s API allowed only floor plan pricing to be pulled into websites. Threshold built a custom integration for Entrata that retrieves several data points such as property floor plan details, availability, pricing, specials, and general property promotions, leveraging automation and increasing website accuracy and sustainability.
Our custom PeakMade templated designs and integration go far beyond the current property website capabilities, allowing property managers to:
- Set a custom pricing label option for floor plans with the ability to customize individual floor plan specials and floor plan name options
- Introduce a rent pricing override option for quick and easy discounted pricing updates when needed
- Create specials and offers that automatically remove themselves from the website when they expire
What does this mean for the property management teams?
- Information refreshes automatically
- No more spending precious hours updating leasing information or submitting requests through Threshold
- User-friendly back-end access to make certain edits on their own, without having to wait the standard 24-72 hour agency request turnaround time
- Focus on leasing and know that the property’s website is accurate and up-to-date
we love results.
How fast do you need a website? Because Threshold and PeakMade launched several of these custom website templates in only 26 business days. But the results don’t stop there.
When switching their property websites from Entrata templated designs to Threshold’s customized solution, PeakMade saw some dramatic improvements.
Taking a sample of 10 property websites from 2022-2023, the PeakMade team saw the following changes:
- Average time on a website increased by 33 seconds across all sites
- An engagement rate increase of 7.74%
- A goal conversion rate increase of 77.61%
before you go.
The 411? Using the Entrata designs and limited plugins was costing PeakMade properties conversions. Their new Threshold website templates look better than the previous property websites and provide a much-improved user experience that’s consistently resulting in better website engagement and higher lease numbers.
Let’s propel you forward. Your place for your every marketing need, with us you can go a la carte or take all the carts. Talk to a Marketing Specialist today.
by threshold | Mar 4, 2024 | Digital Marketing, General, Marketing, Tech/Web
Ava Page
Step into the world of digital marketing mastery with Threshold! Dive into the true impact of SEO in today’s blog.
We’ll unravel the secrets behind keywords, their vital role in your online journey, and how our expertise can elevate your brand visibility.
keywords: your brand’s secret weapon.
In the vast online landscape, keywords act as breadcrumbs guiding potential customers to your virtual doorstep. At Threshold, we infuse a playful twist into these strategic elements, navigating through the search engine maze effortlessly.
Picture your brand soaring to the top of search results, leaving competitors in the digital dust – that’s the SEO magic we specialize in.
turning clicks into conversions.
SEO isn’t just about securing top rankings; it’s about orchestrating a symphony that converts clicks into loyal customers. Our strategies ensure that your audience not only discovers you but stays engaged and invested in what they find.
With our team of SEO experts, your online presence becomes a melodious masterpiece, resonating with your target audience.
playing the algorithm game.
In the dynamic realm of search engine algorithms, staying ahead demands finesse and strategy.
At Threshold, we engage in a strategic dance with the algorithms, ensuring your website remains at the forefront of rankings. From content optimization to mobile responsiveness, our approach is tailored to dazzle both users and search engines alike.
metrics speak louder than words.
Data-driven decisions shape the path to online success. With Threshold, witness the transformation of your website’s analytics.
Our meticulous tracking and analysis ensure every move is calculated and every improvement celebrated. It’s not just about visibility; it’s about making waves in the digital ocean.
packages and services.
We offer comprehensive SEO packages tailored to your unique needs.
From keyword research and content optimization to technical SEO audits and ongoing monitoring, our services cover every aspect of your digital journey. Additionally, explore our add-ons for enhanced visibility and conversion optimization.
to sum things up.
Unlock the full potential of your brand with Threshold Agency’s SEO expertise. Explore our digital marketing services and let the magic of SEO elevate your online presence. Remember, in the digital world, visibility is power, and with Threshold by your side, your brand will shine brighter than ever before.
Let’s make your online journey a success, together.
before you go.
For more tips and information about marketing your everything, take a look at the rest of our blogs, right here on our website!
You can also subscribe to our email newsletter (it’s got some great stuff), and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn!
about the author.
Ava is the SEO & Paid Media Specialist at Threshold.
In her role, she is responsible for the content creation and management of all Threshold and PromoShak social channels, blog content, and SEO maintenance, and aids in internal and client-facing digital marketing strategies.
When she’s not busy creating content, you can usually find her picking out new plants, island-hopping, watching Duke basketball, or spending time with her fur babies.
by threshold | Feb 24, 2024 | Creative, Design, Digital Marketing, General, Marketing, Tech/Web, Thought Leadership
With millions of websites competing for attention in today’s digital age, ensuring that your site stands out from the crowd is essential. Here are our top tips to help you achieve a memorable and engaging website design that will attract and retain visitors.
know who you are.
The importance of having a strong brand identity can’t be overstated. Before diving into the web design process, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your brand’s visual identity and voice. Your website should reflect your brand’s personality and values while speaking to your target audience, whether it’s students, professionals, or families.
Use consistent design elements such as colors, typography, and graphics throughout your site to create a cohesive visitor experience.
design is psychology. use it to your advantage.
Our brains are wired to process information in specific ways, and design can leverage these cognitive tendencies. Visual hierarchy is a powerful tool that can guide users’ attention to the important parts of your website through the use of headlines, images, and eye-catching CTAs. A good design can influence what a user sees first and how they interact with your site.
Emotions are heavy hitters when it comes to people’s decision-making processes. Evoking the right emotions through a design—whether it’s a sense of trust, excitement, or nostalgia—can help foster a stronger connection between the user and the brand.
Another psychological tool you can use to elevate your website is something called the principle of social proof. For better or for worse, we live in an age of social influence and people are more likely to take action if they see others doing the same. Incorporating testimonials, reviews, and user-generated content can help build trust and credibility with visitors, encouraging them to engage further with your website.
dare to be different.
While it’s essential to adhere to design principles and best practices, don’t be afraid to break the mold and experiment with unconventional elements in your website design.
For example, the internet is made up of boxes—people are used to seeing grid-like layouts. Consider shaking things up by using an asymmetrical layout to create visual interest. Experiment with big, bold typography choices, vibrant color schemes, or whimsical illustrations to infuse personality into your website. Introducing unexpected elements can surprise and delight visitors, making your website more memorable.
By daring to be different and embracing unconventional elements in your website design, you can set your site apart from the competition and create a unique online experience for visitors. Remember to stay true to your brand identity and objectives while pushing the boundaries of what’s been done before.
don’t forget about user experience (ux)!
When considering these things, it’s crucial to strike a balance between creativity and usability. Ensure that unconventional elements enhance rather than detract from the overall user experience. Nobody likes a site that’s hard to navigate! Conduct user testing to gather feedback and make adjustments as needed to ensure that your design choices resonate with your target audience.
final thoughts.
By following these tips and implementing thoughtful design strategies, you can make your website stand out from the crowd and leave a lasting impression on visitors. Remember to continuously monitor and optimize your website’s performance to ensure that it remains relevant and engaging in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
We recognize the uniqueness of each brand and the importance of individual visions. By seamlessly integrating client ideas with our technical expertise, we produce websites that not only meet but exceed the expectations of the target audience.
Whether you’re a startup looking for a bold online debut or an established business in need of a digital facelift, Threshold is ready to cater to your specific needs. Our bespoke solutions take into account your brand identity, target audience, and business objectives, ensuring that the end result is more than just a website – it’s a strategic tool for growth and engagement.
In the dynamic world of web development, Threshold remains your trustworthy ally, navigating complexities with finesse. Entrust us with your digital aspirations, and witness as we transform your vision into a tangible reality, connecting you with your audience in meaningful ways. Allow us to be the catalyst to elevate your brand, captivate your audience, and explore the limitless possibilities of web development together.
about the author.
When we think about someone who can literally do it all, Heather is always the first one to come to mind. From designing and developing stunning websites that always out-perform, to understanding branding in a way that would put even the most experienced professionals to shame, Heather is our go-to girl in all things creative.
