The mortgage broking industry, like many others, is undergoing a significant digital transformation. Mortgage brokers are increasingly breaking away from traditional franchises to establish their own brands, recognising the value of creating their unique assets in this evolving landscape. A pivotal aspect of this transformation revolves around building and strengthening an online presence, where the website plays a central role. Here we explore the digital shift in the mortgage broking sector, emphasising the benefits of establishing one’s brand, with a particular focus on the importance of an effective website. Furthermore, we delve into how consumers are conducting online brand research, highlighting the growing role of social media alongside traditional search engines.
Brokers embrace independence
Traditionally, many mortgage brokers operated under the umbrella of established franchises. However, the industry’s digital transformation is prompting a shift towards greater independence. Brokers are recognising the advantages of breaking free from franchise constraints to create and nurture their own brands.
The value of building your own brand
One of the key reasons for brokers opting to establish their own brands is the potential for creating a valuable asset that appreciates over time. Unlike working under a franchise, where the brand belongs to someone else, building your own brand means you have ownership and control over your reputation and the associated equity. This equity grows with time as your brand gains recognition and trust in the market.
Your brand’s digital face – the mortgage broker website
In this digital age, a critical element of your brand is your online presence, with your website serving as the digital face of your mortgage broking business. A well-designed and informative mortgage broker website is no longer just an option; it’s a necessity for brokers looking to thrive in the digital era.
If you are looking for more information on the costs associated with creating and maintaining a mortgage broker website, there are valuable resources available to guide you through the process. Understanding the expenses involved in building and running a successful website is crucial for making informed decisions. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the financial aspects of your online presence will enable you to make strategic investments that help your mortgage broking business thrive in this digital age.
Consumer behaviour in online brand research
Understanding how consumers research brands online is pivotal in the mortgage broking industry’s digital transformation. According to recent studies, the main channels for online brand research among individuals aged 16 to 65 include:
- Search engines (55.6%): Search engines, primarily Google, remain the go-to source for consumers seeking information about brands and products. This is a testament to the enduring relevance and importance of search engine optimisation (SEO) for mortgage brokers.
- Product or brand websites (35.8%): Consumers often visit the official websites of brands to gather information about their services and credibility. For mortgage brokers, having an informative and user-friendly website is a strategic advantage.
- Consumer reviews (33.4%): Online reviews play a significant role in shaping consumer opinions. Positive reviews and testimonials on your website can enhance your brand’s reputation and trustworthiness.
- Social networks (32.5%): The influence of social media in online brand research is on the rise. Platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter are becoming increasingly important for brand visibility and engagement.
The growing role of social media
The latest data from January 2023 demonstrated a notable 32.5% of internet users aged 16 to 64 have been using social media networks to find information about brands and products, according to data from Meltwater. This indicates that social media is a growing force in the realm of online brand research. Mortgage brokers must recognise the significance of maintaining a strong presence on social platforms to engage with potential clients effectively.
Balancing social media and search engines
While social media is gaining ground as a platform for brand research, search engines like Google continue to hold their position as the primary source of information. Mortgage brokers should, therefore, strike a balance between optimising their websites for search engine visibility and creating compelling content for social media engagement.
Venture into the new world
The digital transformation of the mortgage broking industry is undeniable. Mortgage brokers are increasingly venturing out to establish their own brands, recognising the potential to create valuable assets that appreciate over time. In this digital landscape, a website plays a pivotal role as the face of your brand, providing clients with essential information and building trust.
In navigating this transformation, mortgage brokers can achieve a competitive edge by optimising their websites for search engine visibility, maintaining active and engaging social media profiles, and consistently delivering quality service that aligns with the promise of their brand. The mortgage broking industry’s digital evolution presents both challenges and opportunities, and those who embrace it strategically are poised for success in this dynamic era.
Keep abreast of government grants
While the Technology Investment Boost tax incentive may have already passed, it serves as a testament to the Australian government’s recognition of technology’s crucial role in business innovation. Though this specific incentive has its timeline, staying abreast of other available grants and tax incentives can significantly aid your digital transformation journey. The ever-evolving landscape of government support for businesses means that opportunities are frequently emerging, offering potential financial relief for your technology investments.
In this dynamic environment, it’s essential for businesses to remain vigilant, continuously seeking out new incentives and grants that can support their digital transformation efforts. To stay up to date on the latest opportunities and resources available, our dedicated resource hub for mortgage brokers is your go-to destination. Explore our resources hub to stay informed, seize opportunities, and keep your business on the cutting edge of technological innovation in today’s ever-evolving landscape.