Back to The Old School: Traditional Direct Mail Works

Sure, we all know social media and digital media marketing like email and SEO are currently the major strategies pushing the marketing pendulum. But I want to talk about a method has been pushed to the side, direct mail.

Putting Your Message into Their Hands

Even though many companies are focusing on online advertisement and other technology-based techniques to present their message, creating direct mail marketing is easy and profitable way to use your advertising dollars.

Here are 8 reasons direct mail is still one of the most effective forms of advertising:

1. Direct mail is very targeted. Customers will receive only offers or information that meet their individual needs or buying habits.

2. Direct mail can be personalized. This personalized touch means that customers are more likely to give attention to your message and follow through on a purchase.

3. Direct mail is a tangible and can be kept. Because direct mail is distributed directly to customers’ hands and they can physically touch it, they are more likely to trust the message.

4. Direct mail is familiar. Many customers are still uncertain about opening email messages, but remain open to direct mailers which they are comfortable with.

5. Direct mail is flexible. There are a wide variety of choices, from postcards to catalogs to create a direct mailing campaign that is a fit for your marketing efforts.

6. Direct mail can be measured easily. Statistics can generated from the number of inquiries from the mailing or the number of coupons used.

7. Direct mail is cost effective. While the creation itself is easy and affordable, actually mailing each campaign is also relatively economical. Mass mail rates are available for any form of direct mail campaign.

8. Direct mail is tried and true. This marketing strategy has been so widely used for a long time, and there is a lot of data that demonstrates its effectiveness. Direct mail campaigns offer dependable returns at a small cost.

Direct marketing is about making direct contact with existing and potential customers to promote your product or service. So, how can you plan a successful direct mail campaign? Here are a few tips to get you started.

1. Segment your lists and send targeted messages. You can separate a list between existing customers and potential leads or based on some demographic category.

2. Use direct mail strategically. Focus on quality mailing campaigns to get more out of your money.

3. Focus on the content – Use compelling messaging that will customers and appeals to their emotions.

This “old school” marketing tactic can still have a significant place in any business’ marketing plan and play a major part in customers’ purchasing decision. Direct mail marketing is still relevant and should be incorporated into your next marketing campaign blended with new digital media marketing efforts.