Impact of Digital Marketing on Consumer Behavior in Small Medium Entrepreneurship Businesses in Malawi

Alexander George Pahuwa*, Muthuvel Laxmikanthan **
* DMI St. Eugene University, Chibombo, Zambia.
** DVC - Research and Innovation, DMI St. John the Baptist University, Malawi.
Periodicity:January - March'2024
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jmgt.18.3.20428

Abstract

Small and medium businesses play a huge and crucial role in the Malawian economy by contributing to job creation and poverty reduction. The purpose of this study is to investigate the value and influence of digital marketing on the buying behavior of consumers in small and medium-sized establishments (SMEs) in the business environment. This research investigates how digital marketing can have a very huge effect on the rapid growth and success of SMEs, which results in improving brand recognition and strengthening customer relationships. This study applies a qualitative research approach that involves a number of companies that operate as SMEs in Malawi. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to help provide the primary data, where respondents had to answer according to the best of their abilities. Secondary data relevant to the study was also gathered through peer-reviewed articles, journals, and websites. The study concludes with the view that digital marketing is identified as a creative and efficient method of acquiring, growing, and maintaining customer relationships. Online platforms such as websites, industry-specific outlets, and forums have been identified as the most beneficial for SMEs. It further recommends that newly established and existing SMEs stand to hugely benefit from adopting digital marketing strategy for creating brand awareness and building brand trust amongst customers.

Keywords

Digital Marketing, Consumer Behavior, Small Medium Businesses, SMEs, Job Creation, Poverty Reduction, Brand Recognition, Customer Relationships.

How to Cite this Article?

Pahuwa, A. G., and Laxmikanthan, M. (2024). Impact of Digital Marketing on Consumer Behavior in Small Medium Entrepreneurship Businesses in Malawi. i-manager’s Journal on Management, 18(3), 44-50. https://doi.org/10.26634/jmgt.18.3.20428

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