“Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.” – Sun Tzu
Over 2,500 years ago, Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu wrote The Art of War, a timeless guide to planning and execution. His insights are still quoted by leaders today, because strategy is just as essential in business as it is on the battlefield.
In marketing, the difference between the strategy, plan and tactics is often blurred. Put simply: strategy sets your direction, your why, who, and where. Your plan maps out the how, and when, and your tactics are what specific actions you take to bring the plan to life. Without a clear strategy, even the most polished campaign risks missing the mark. In today’s AI-driven, fast-moving digital world, that clarity matters more than ever. Technology is transforming how we connect with customers, but without strategic thinking behind the tools, automation alone won’t cut through.
This guide walks you through 8 essential steps to build a smart digital marketing strategy, grounded in proven frameworks like SOSTAC®, SWOT, and the Marketing Mix. Plus, you’ll get 2 bonus tips to future‑proof your approach.
Continue reading “How to Create a Digital Marketing Strategy in 8 Steps (Plus 2 Bonus Tips)”
