For many businesses, online marketing has become a main way of advertising and promotion over recent years. Many companies are overlooking the traditional, offline marketing strategies that have proven themselves to be successful over time, and as a result of this some are losing out on customers or even profits. Businesses which implement truly successful marketing strategies tend to use both online and offline methods, and a mixture of the two is often the most effective way to draw attention to your brand and create a well-rounded and multi-faceted approach. When done together as a marketing strategy, online and offline marketing are able to support each other and one can amplify the efforts of the other. Let’s take a look at some of the most effective offline marketing strategies and how you can use them to boost your online presence.
Networking
Face-to-face connections are a valued form of marketing for the majority of today’s customers, speaking to potential customers face to face can often help to drive traffic to your website if an in-person meeting inspires your new connections to search and learn more about you and your company. Being able to put a face to a name is a strategy that can help you create a deep sense of loyalty amongst your buyers, so you should never underestimate the power of a good, old-fashioned handshake and a friendly smile.
Distribute Leaflets
Whilst flyers and business cards definitely won’t provide you with the same SEO benefits as an online backlink to your website, distributing print publications with your website address printed on is an excellent way to encourage more potential customers to visit your company’s site. You’ll find that printing your own leaflets, flyers and business cards isn’t difficult either – there are a number of print companies which you can use, or get a good printer such as a HP printer along with, cartridges, a fuser and HP fuser parts and you could even print them yourself.
Direct Mail and Cold Calls
Although it is more costly than sending an e-mail, some members of your target audience may appreciate being sent direct mail more than an e-mail simply because it seems more personalized and thoughtful. When sending direct mail it’s important to know who you’re sending it to, so that you can personalize it as best you can in order for it not to appear generic. Cold calls are also a good offline marketing strategy – they have that personal touch which is often valued by potential customers. However, a cold call strategy needs to be taken with great care – make sure that you have a genuine reason for reaching out and be mindful of your call recipient’s time. You should also choose calling times wisely – don’t call late at night, or in the day when most people will be in work.
How do you use offline marketing strategies to boost your online sales and online presence? We’d love to hear any advice that you may have in the comments below.
