Top Direct Marketing Techniques
So what is direct marketing? Direct marketing is advertising that goes outside the normal advertising venues, like television and newspaper ads. Direct marketing goes directly to the client without the use of a middleman. Small business owners like direct marketing because it is cheaper and they have more control over their message and its frequency.
Direct Media
Direct media used to be just mailers and flyers, but today you can send just about anything. Free CD samples and digital presentations are just two direct media pieces you can send. Introduce a new potential customer base to your full range of products with a flashy PowerPoint presentation. These are inexpensive to mail with USPS Media Mail.
Social Networks
Create a fan or business page on Facebook. Set a target goal to reach 1,000 or even 10,000 likes. Give away a few free or discounted products to a few of your fans. Don't over post, but do post at least weekly. Give customers a heads up on upcoming sales and store events. Send Twitter blasts with links to products and store sites. These short text style messages allow you to make a big impact in just a few words.
Email Newsletters
Design and produce a digital newsletter to send to current clients. Include informative articles and a calendar of store events in your paper. Ask for customer feedback and find out what your customers really want through a monthly email newsletter. This direct marketing technique takes some work, but it is worth it when maintaining a large affiliate group or customer base.
Coupons
This old standby still works-people love coupons. Create coupons to hand out door to door or leave them on the windshields of cars. Include your store coupon in a larger coupon book like the ones used for school fundraisers.
Online Commercials
With a camcorder and a good script, you can make your own commercials. Post your commercials on YouTube or link it to your Facebook page.
Website and Blog
Every business should have a website or a blog. Free websites are everywhere! Get your business directly to the consumer with a fun, informative website or a daily blog. Share hot news from your business about the salesperson of the week or a discount deal.
Promotion Materials
Promotions always work! Order key chains, coffee mugs and T-shirts that advertise your business. Get your business advertisement into the customers' home with this creative direct marketing technique.
Published by Monica Bullock - Featured Contributor in Beauty and Lifestyle
Monica is a small business owner and writer living on the Gulf Coast. After attending college at the University of South Alabama, Monica purchased her own cosmetics and skin care business. In a few years, sh... View profile
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