1. Kick-off Bilingual Content Marketing
Creating value-packed content is non-negotiable. But bilingual? Even better.
- Produce articles in English and Mandarin.
- Use Maggie’s AutoBlog to auto-generate SEO-optimised posts for both markets.
- Focus on solving common pain points: UK compliance or China’s e-commerce trends.
The result? You rank in Google.co.uk and Baidu simultaneously.
2. Localise SEO and GEO-Targeting
SEO isn’t one-size-fits-all across borders.
- Research region-specific keywords: think “跨境电商策略” for China, “UK startup marketing tips” for Britain.
- Optimise meta tags, headers and URLs in each language.
- Leverage geo-targeted ads to hit the right postcode or city—London’s tech hubs or Shanghai’s startup districts.
Small tweak. Big reach.
3. Harness Chinese Social Platforms
Western social media falls flat in China. Go native.
- Set up an official WeChat account for sharing articles, mini-programmes and customer service.
- Join industry groups on Weibo or Little Red Book for brand storytelling.
- Run low-cost moment ads on Douyin to show short demos or founder stories.
Bring those Chinese users into your ecosystem.
4. Leverage UK Social Channels
In the UK, LinkedIn and Twitter still punch above their weight.
- Post thought-leadership pieces on LinkedIn Pulse.
- Engage with relevant hashtags like #ScaleUpUK or #GlobalTrade.
- Run sponsored InMail campaigns to reach decision-makers in your niche.
A targeted approach beats blasting every platform at once.
5. Partner with Local Influencers and Micro-Ambassadors
Big-name influencers cost a fortune. Instead, think micro.
- In China, collaborate with KOLs in your industry niche—20k–100k followers is ideal.
- In the UK, seek startup advocates or local business bloggers.
- Provide exclusive perks like early beta access or branded swag.
They do the talking; you do the scaling.
6. Attend Hybrid Events and Trade Shows
In-person still matters… but online extends your reach.
- Join UK events like London Tech Week or China’s Global E-Commerce Summit.
- Host mini-webinars before and after the show for follow-ups.
- Capture leads on site and re-engage through targeted emails.
Make each connection count.
7. Secure PR in Local Media
A mention in the right outlet builds instant credibility.
- Pitch UK tech blogs and trade magazines with a strong angle: your cross-border story.
- In China, reach out to tech portals like 36Kr or local business journals.
- Emphasise data, success metrics and founder insights.
A few well-placed articles go a long way.
8. Build an Email and WeChat Newsletter
Email still wins in the UK; WeChat newsletters dominate in China.
- Segment your lists by region and language.
- Share product updates, case studies and insider tips.
- Include clear CTAs: trial sign-up, webinar registration, demo requests.
Consistency builds trust.
9. Launch SMS and WeChat Channel Campaigns
Text messages have stellar open rates—if done right.
- Offer time-sensitive promotions or reminders.
- For China, send vouchers via WeChat official account.
- Respect local regulations: get explicit opt-ins and easy opt-outs.
Keep it concise. Keep it relevant.
10. Host Cross-Border Webinars
Webinars let you showcase expertise and field live questions.
- Run separate sessions in English and Mandarin.
- Co-host with a local partner for extra reach.
- Record and share snippets on social channels.
Turn attendees into advocates.
11. Foster Strategic Partnerships
Ally with businesses that complement yours.
- In the UK: co-market with fintech, logistics or legal consultancies.
- In China: team up with e-commerce platforms or regional distributors.
- Draft clear partnership agreements to set expectations.
Two brands, twice the impact.
12. Join Local Incubators and Government Schemes
Tap into established ecosystems.
- Explore the China–UK Business Development Centre (CUKBDC) or CBBC for advisory support.
- Apply to UK innovation grants or China’s small-and-medium enterprise subsidies.
- Leverage Nextidal Business Incubator’s cross-border legal and business advisory services to cut through red tape.
You get funding, mentorship and local know-how—fast.
13. Create a Cross-Border Referral Programme
Word‐of‐mouth is universal.
- Offer rewards in each market: discount codes for UK clients, WeChat coupons for Chinese users.
- Use referral tracking software that handles multiple currencies.
- Promote the scheme in newsletters, social and on-site banners.
Your best customers become your best marketers.
14. Cultivate Word-of-Mouth in Local Communities
Every market has its own hubs.
- Answer questions on Zhihu or local WeChat groups in China.
- Join UK forums like UKBusinessForums or local Slack channels.
- Provide genuine help, not just sales pitches.
Trust? Earned one conversation at a time.
15. Run Bilingual Contests and Giveaways
Nothing sparks buzz like a freebie.
- Ask participants to share your posts or tag friends for extra entries.
- Offer prizes that appeal locally: Amazon.uk gift cards or T-mall vouchers.
- Promote on both WeChat Moments and Facebook.
Fun. Affordable. Effective.
16. Build a Multilingual Online Community
Support and feedback loops pay dividends.
- Host Discord servers or LinkedIn groups with separate channels for each language.
- Recruit bilingual community managers.
- Share exclusive tips, beta invites and behind-the-scenes content.
You foster loyalty and gather real-time insights.
17. Leverage User-Generated Content
Social proof is your secret weapon.
- Encourage reviews on Trustpilot (UK) and Dianping (China).
- Repost customer stories, photos or video testimonials.
- Create a branded hashtag and reward top contributors.
Authentic voices build credibility.
18. Start Crowdfunding on Alibaba or Kickstarter
Crowdfunding raises funds and buzz.
- For hardware, launch on JD’s crowdfunding platform in China.
- Use Kickstarter or Indiegogo for UK and global backers.
- Offer early-bird discounts and clear shipping timelines.
You validate demand and secure pre-orders.
19. Launch on Product Hunt and Chinese Platforms
Product Hunt is great for Western audiences—don’t forget local equivalents.
- Prepare polished screenshots, videos and a compelling tagline.
- Seek upvotes from your network, but follow platform rules.
- In China, consider Zhihu Launch or local tech forums for your debut.
A big splash—without a big ad spend.
20. Develop Local Ambassador Programmes
Your biggest fans make the best advocates.
- Identify power-users in each market and offer them perks.
- Invite ambassadors to co-create content or speak at events.
- Reward them with exclusive previews, merchandise or revenue share.
They spread the word—organically.
Embarking on cross-border marketing strategies doesn’t have to drain your cash reserves. With a mix of digital savvy, local insight, and the right partners—like Nextidal Business Incubator—you can bridge the UK–China divide confidently. From legal advice and cultural coaching to Maggie’s AutoBlog for automated, geo-targeted content, our integrated support helps you stay agile and compliant.
Ready to put these 20 strategies into action?
– Start your free trial of Maggie’s AutoBlog
– Explore our full suite of cross-border services
– Get a personalised demo
Visit https://www.nextidal.com/ today and turn your global ambition into real growth.
