In an Internet-driven world, it’s often tempting to dismiss traditional marketing. The litmus test for any marketing strategy, however, is results. If it produces, keep it around. If it doesn’t, change your plan.
Many tried-and-true techniques are still around because they still produce. They have provided reliable results for decades. For this reason, even when you’re implementing new media strategies, it’s crucial to continue to leverage traditional marketing techniques.
We’ll explore these areas in more depth in our next post. For now, here’s a brief preview of the five best techniques.
Five most effective traditional marketing practices
01. Events
You can use events in several different ways. For instance, you may host your own event. Hosting your own event often gives you credibility and establishes you as an important information source in your area of business
Additionally, you can also attend other networking events. All other influences aside, people still make the majority of their decisions based on in-person connections.
02. Philanthropic
Philanthropy often produces less observable results. Most customers will not identify your volunteering or donation work as the main reason they do business with you.
Philanthropy, however, establishes a values-driven culture that builds trust both inside and outside your organization.
03. Direct Mail
Sending mailers can take a few different forms. You can send mailers to current customers. This not only reminds them of the value they’re currently receiving but also gives you the opportunity to offer additional services.
Alternatively, it is both easy and relatively affordable to purchase new mailer lists for future customers. While the return rate on mailers is typically low, the long-term benefit of brand recognition makes this traditional marketing technique worthwhile.
04. Advertisements
The power of advertising remains strong and there are a growing number of affordable options. In an age of social media and emails, billboards, press releases, and traditional ads still bear results.
Although advertising is notoriously difficult to assess while in the moment, its long-term benefits make it one of the marketing methods you can’t afford to avoid.
05. Word of Mouth
In a recent report,1 83% of people claimed to trust recommendations from people they know. Word of mouth still stands as the highest trusted format.
Finding ways to leverage current contacts and spread your message person-to-person builds the loyal audience each business desires. Word-of-mouth marketing both makes and generates loyal followings, making champions, not just customers.
http://www.nielsen.com/us/en/insights/reports/2015/global-trust-in-advertising-2015.html