Here are five tips to help you add customers without breaking the bank.
1. Inspire a Reaction.
Think of it as something for nothing. If your fans are going to partake in your event, keep them from procrastinating (or worse yet bailing out) by offering some form of incentive for taking the leap early. (i.e. "First 100 online orders get a commemorative Frisbee" or "Purchase by a certain date for free swag.") If they’re truly planning on participating, they will respond immediately. Don’t let them cool off.
2. Benefits Rule! Features, not so much.
Don’t go on and on patting yourself on the back about how great your product is. Instead, focus on how the consumer will benefit from its uniqueness. A spill-proof travel coffee mug, for example, is convenient because it can prevent burns, stained clothing and distractions while driving. The fact that it has an ergonomic handle and comes in seven colors is less relevant.
3. Do your research.
Understand what your competition is doing in the way of promotions and stay one step ahead of them. If they offer 15% off on Wednesdays, offer 20% off. Never simply say, “We price match." If you put the burden on the consumer to find a better price, don’t expect them to come back to you to make their purchase.
4. Keep it real.
If you include photos of actual customers or employees, rather than models, in your mailings, the response rates go up. You don’t always need a professional photo shoot. Often times the unrefined approach adds a human element that consumers connect with. Stay conscious of lighting and subject matter.5. Know your audience.
Direct mail has the advantage of reaching a highly targeted audience, which means you’re not wasting money on unqualified leads just to reach your prime prospects. The quickest and easiest way to do this is by purchasing a mailing list that contains prospects that fit your prime demographics. If you already have a loyal customer base, your new mailing list should reflect demographics comparable to these customers.
If you don’t have customers yet, or if you want to attract a new audience, evaluate what your product or service is and who will most benefit from it. Other less targeted mail products allow you to mail to every home in a zip code. This is perfect for announcing your business and creating awareness of your existence in a specific geographic area.
If you need help, marketing professionals such as those at AMPlified Mail can help you match your products and services to your target audience and identify the right mail product to promote them.