Tips for Merging Print and Online Marketing
Online marketing is quickly reducing the use of printed marketing. Danny Outlaw from Outlaw Design Blog holds the opinion that print will indeed have a place in the future. In fact ,he says “it will actually become more of a novelty and thus attract more attention when used.”
It seems to me that many companies may be claiming that print marketing is no longer necessary because of the fact that print will always cost while many online efforts are free. The truth is that both offline and online marketing are very necessary for most industries. And those companies who are surviving and even thriving in this economy are the ones who have not done away with either form of promoting their brand.
Variety is a Key
Within both offline and online marketing, you will also need to use several techniques. For instance, do not limit yourself to just your website for online promotions. Danny recommends several types of online marketing. Setting up a blog is a great online marketing tool. Make it your own and show your clients that you are a professional in your field. Also, find some websites to advertise where your target audience will find it.
For print marketing, incorporate business cards, flyers, postcards, brochures, magazine ads, or whatever mix of print ads you find works best for your type of business. The idea is to get your name noticed and recognized and this can only be done when your brand has plenty of public exposure.
Merging Marketing Efforts
Here is how Danny Outlaw recommends merging online and printed marketing:
-
“Turn your business card into a coupon”
Of course, be sure to place your URL on your business cards. In addition to that, use the back or your business cards for a coupon to be redeemed online.
-
“Create synergy between your print and online image”
This step involves creating a cohesive brand and carrying it throughout your marketing. Your brand colors, fonts, images, and logo should be present in all your printed and online marketing.
-
“Create a custom landing page for your printed materials”
This is where you encourage your viewer to go directly to a certain URL that you have created for people who have your printing materials. For instance, send customers with your business card coupons to a page where they can find out more.
-
"The power of curiosity”
Danny Outlaw suggests that if you give out business cards with only a URL printed on it, potential customers will be interested enough to look you up. I once heard of a designer who printed only his name and “Google Me” on his business cards. This may not work for everyone, but some will have success with this method.
-
“Drive Traffic from your website to your printed material.”
Danny gives the example of sending your online customers to find a secret printed flyer at a local shop. The reward is a coupon or special promotion. You could also offer to send customers printed materials if they request it online. Many people still like to hold a catalog in their hands rather than scroll through a website.
So, if you are going to market successfully, you will have to find a balance between online and print marketing. This may take some trial and error but eventually you will have a strong brand that customers recognize and remember.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About PrintPlace
PrintPlace is a collaboration between print professionals, designers and developers committed to delivering the best online printing experience. Boasting the industry's most powerful and flexible quote tool, PrintPlace has engineered a unique workflow process that guarantees end-to-end color management. PrintPlace operates two printing facilities in Arlington and Fort Worth, Texas with plans to add a third in north Texas soon. To learn more about PrintPlace, visit its website at www.printplace.com.
Online Printing > Articles Home > Marketing > Tips for Merging Print and Online Marketing