Offline Marketing Strategies that Help Strengthen your Online Brand

Offline Marketing Strategies that Help Strengthen your Online Brand

Would it surprise you to know that your offline marketing efforts are every bit as important as your online efforts when it comes to supporting your online brand? If you implement an effective offline strategy, you can increase your web traffic tenfold in a very short time. Here are some tips on how to pump up your brand without a computer:

Print Publications

Relevant placements in industry magazines and other publications will help with brand recognition and strengthen your reputation as an expert in your field. While this won’t have immediate SEO effects like back-linking does, it will contribute to your overall offline strategy. Be careful not to list in print publications just for the sake of it. Find relevant, business-related publications and journals.

Networking

Peer-to-peer networking can be an invaluable way to educate others on the products and services you provide. If done right, you can garner more business from your networking groups than other sources of marketing combined. It can take some time to build your relationships and get referrals, but once you do, you’ll have a steady stream of business. Hand out your business cards, flyers or brochures to every meeting, and make sure your web information is clearly listed.

Speaking engagements

There are many opportunities in your local community to speak about your products and services. Networking groups are always looking for speakers, as well as groups such as Lions Clubs, Rotary Clubs, etc. Find some businesses who still conduct ‘lunch and learn’ meetings and ask if you could speak at one of their events. Have plenty of business cards on hand as well as brochures so people will have something to read after your speech. Of course, make sure your website is listed.

Trade shows

This is a great way to showcase your products and services. Have a bright display and hold a raffle/contest in order to engage people in conversation. A combination of human/digital interaction (have a DVD player going in the background explaining more about your company), will help build trust between you and your potential customers. Don’t just sit behind your table and hope that people will stop by – remain standing and engage people as they walk by (without being too aggressive).

Direct Mail

This method can still work well; the trick is to get the reader’s attention and keep it. Use bold, eye-catching designs and colors. Don’t put too much information on the mailers, keep it clear and concise. Give them a reason to go to your website – a 10% off incentive, or a free consultation, for instance.

Visit local businesses

Depending on the nature of your business, you may want to let them know about you and your services. For instance, if you provide bookkeeping services, visit some of your local shops and introduce yourself. Chances are, they already have someone doing their books, but some may be dissatisfied with their current service, or they may be at a point in their growth cycle that they are thinking of hiring someone. And they can recommend you to others who may be looking. Don’t be afraid to walk in, ask for the manager/owner and hand them your business card.