Sometime in the last 10 years or so, with the explosion of digital marketing and social media, we seem to have forgotten many of the tried and tested ways we used to communicate with potential buyers and customers.
Don’t get me wrong. I love digital marketing. It’s immediate, powerful, and can be very affordable. There aren’t too many businesses that won’t benefit from connecting with their audience online.
But…
In the rush to embrace social media and email marketing, maybe we’ve given up on some old school marketing techniques that still work.
Remember when mail actually arrived in your letterbox? When people picked up the phone to find out what you really needed and how they could help solve your problem? When meeting face to face cemented business relationships quickly and effectively?
The digital space is now so competitive that going offline with complementary messages can be more powerful than ever. No single communication platform can do all your marketing heavy lifting. Each medium fills gaps the others can’t. So vintage marketing tactics are well worth another look.
Given a modern twist and blended with savvy digital messages, old school marketing can add variety and impact to your brand and help make your business more memorable.
Which one of these vintage ideas could work for you?
1. Craft an excellent Elevator Pitch
How many potential buyers do you speak to in an average week? Are you able to describe what you do and why it’s worth buying – in a way that leaves people asking to know more? If you can’t, get to work on it. Or get help with it. This is powerful.
2. Networking
Once you have your Elevator Pitch nailed, find opportunities to use it. Choose your networking events with care. Be clear on the sort of people you’d like to speak with, and select events accordingly. Then network with generosity and purpose.
3. Partner Up
Most small businesses overlook the amazing value of partnerships. Collaboration with non-competing businesses who sell to the same people as you can produce huge benefits, at comparatively low cost. It also creates very happy customers. What could you offer your partner’s buyers? And what benefits or complementary products could they sell to yours? Online marketers who utilise direct mail are brilliant at this. Next time you receive a bunch of offers in the mail from an online supplier for products from other businesses, take note. Could you do something similar?
4. Business Cards as Marketing Messengers
Your business card can supply more than your logo and contact details. It might promote a link to a really useful ebook or webinar, make a special offer for a first time buyer, or promote an upcoming event. Use all your business card real estate wisely, and always have a call to action
5. Pick Up the Phone
A good old fashioned phone call can be a surprising and welcome change. It’s amazing how quickly and effectively you can find out exactly what your buyer needs, and craft what you offer to match, with a short conversation. Next time you’re tempted to ask a question by email, pick up the phone.
6. Vehicle Signage
Why not turn your car into a mobile billboard for your business.? Vehicle wraps can create amazing impact.
Success with vintage marketing relies on exactly the same principles as online marketing.
- Know your audience.
- Send them a compelling offer or some interesting, relevant information.
- Do it consistently.
- Do it often .
