Kicking It Old School: Marketing Tips

Sure, social media is important and you’re living under a rock if you think you can get by without a website these days, but here’s some real talk: old school marketing methods haven’t stopped working just because everyone’s addicted to their digital devices. In fact, going the extra mile with personal touches and well-designed, “old-fashioned” marketing materials may be just the thing to get your business the credibility and customers it deserves.

The Power of Gratitude

The National Federation of Independent Businesses reports that the simple act of saying “thank you” can be a powerful tool in getting the word out about your business. Since so many customers these days have the option to make their purchases online, assume that they’re looking for some kind of human exchange when they enter your shop. Be sure to greet them warmly and see if they need any assistance, and always show genuine appreciation that they came into the store, especially if they make a purchase. The NFIB suggests that highlighting a few customers a week to thank with an individual note can go a long way. Or you can also try marrying your old-school and cutting-edge methods by doing social media shout-outs to some of your best in-store customers.

Making Your Materials “Pop”

While social networks like Facebook appear to be ubiquitous, more and more people are actually tuning out from the noise of social media. According to Salon.com, many users report their use of the popular site is decreasing. This means that you can’t abandon traditional print strategies for garnering attention, like posters, direct mail, and business cards. When you print business cards, be sure to create an eye catching design, or try a non-traditional size to help your card stand out. Small cards in a variety of colors can be a fun way to get people’s attention when you pull out your cards at a party or networking event. You can also design colorful, glossy 4″ x 6″ cards to leave in stores, restaurants, bars, or other places where your potential customers may flock. If you choose to print and distribute posters for your business, make sure they are maintained and don’t get ripped or covered in graffiti. A well-placed, well-designed poster can catch a customer’s eye, but a ruined, ugly poster will get their attention in a different way.

Print Marketing

It makes sense that independent business owners have turned to social media to promote their business — traditional print marketing in newspapers and magazines can be downright expensive. But print materials can appeal to a niche market that reads the magazine or paper, notes Chron.com. Be choosy about where you place your ads to save money and you’ll end up targeting a more specific demographic. The benefit here is that you’ll reach people who are actively seeking information on arts, culture, or entertainment as opposed to more passive Internet users who may be idly clicking away with no real intent to act or make a purchase in the near future.

Finally, recognizing “old school” marketing as a key component to your modern marketing ways is important to truly capture customers, retain consumer attention and keep folks returning to your store.

Photo Credit: Creative Commons image by Enderst​07 with persmission to use from Social Monsters