5:47 AM
10 Clever Offline Tactics for Online Traffic
5:47 AMMarketing your online business can be a very time consuming and drawn out process. Most of us get so consumed with our online social media...
Marketing your online business can be a very time consuming and drawn
out process. Most of us get so consumed with our online social media
sites, article marketing, etc., we forget there is a whole offline world
to which we can market our products and services.
There are many ways you can effectively market your online business to the offline world. Some strategies will require more aggression and work but will produce results. Making the transition from online to offline marketing can sometimes be difficult and outside our comfort zone, but to succeed with your business you need to expand. Start with one or two of the ideas below and as you make progress start increasing your marketing arsenal.
The offline marketing ideas are endless so always be on the look-out
for new, innovative methods to spread the word about your online
business. Spread your wings and go outside your comfort zone! You will
be amazed at some of the results.
There are many ways you can effectively market your online business to the offline world. Some strategies will require more aggression and work but will produce results. Making the transition from online to offline marketing can sometimes be difficult and outside our comfort zone, but to succeed with your business you need to expand. Start with one or two of the ideas below and as you make progress start increasing your marketing arsenal.
1. Have a Networking Party
– Plan and invite your local and surrounding area business owners to a
networking party. Brainstorm together to cross promote each other and
bring leads to fellow business owners. Working together with other
business owners can bring you a remarkable amount of success.
2. Brochures/Flyers –
You can make your own brochures/flyers at a very nominal cost and they
can help build your business. Always carry them with you so you can hand
them out at every opportunity. Include them in all your mailings and
post them on bulletin boards where allowed. Hand them out at parades,
community events, sporting events, etc. Be sure to add a call to action
so your potential customer will take action. NOTE: Always check to see
if you are allowed to distribute or hand out advertisements before you
do so.
3. Advertise on Public Vehicles
– Many of us have seen buses and other public vehicles plastered with
ads. This could work very well for your business as well. Contact bus
companies, taxi companies, utility companies, etc. to see what they
would charge for your ad.
4. Sponsor Community Events
– Children’s sports, charity events, picnics, fundraisers, etc., are
all good events to sponsor. Getting involved in your community will
definitely give your business a boost. Not only will you get excellent
publicity but you will get additional networking opportunities as well.
5. Freebies – Freebies
are always a good way to get your url out into the world. Offer people
ink pens, mouse pads, coffee cups, calendars, etc. Give as many out as
you can! Be sure to give out freebies people will actually use.
6. Letterheads – Your
url, business name and logo should be on all mailings, letters and
envelopes that leave your house. You can design your own stationery and
envelopes. Greeting cards, postcards even the monthly bills should all
have your business info!
7. Business Cards –
Business cards are a great tool for you to spread the word about your
business. Be creative. Use short but powerful testimonials. Add your url
and logo. Offer a coupon/discount code for first orders. Add a special
tip, motivational quote or personal message. Hand them out to everyone!
8. Discount Radio Shows –
Many radio stations have local shows where they offer various coupons
and discounts to listeners from area businesses. Call the radio station
and find out how to participate. Offer specials on various products
and/or services.
9. Public Restrooms – An
unusual advertising idea that seems to be spreading is to post ads from
various local businesses in the restrooms of stores, restaurants, etc.
Call these places to see what it would cost to have your ad in their
restroom. I know I read those ads all the time – what else is there to
do. Also, ask restaurants about ads on their placemats.
10. Your Vehicle – Add a
painted or magnetic sign to your vehicle. Be sure you use your url and
add a short tagline. Even a family fun day can bring you some new
business!