Social Networking vs. Direct Mail

Much has been written lately about social networking, and despite its growing popularity, direct mail remains an effective means to reaching your target audience.

In a recent survey conducted by Blue Point Venture Marketing over 50% of respondents said direct mail was still an effective tool for branding and awareness. Only 19% felt social networking was important to their marketing.

As has always been true, seasoned marketers do not rely on just one marketing component. A productive campaign involves a combination of various elements.

For more information read the artice here .

Marketing During Tough Times

When times are tough you may be inclined to cut back on your marketing.

However, according to Business West, the smart marketers continue to send their message. This is the time to differentiate yourself from the competition.

New marketing methods such as social networking can allow you to maintain your presence while keeping your costs down.

This is the time to re-evaluate your marketing campaigns and again focus on your target market.

For more tips read the article here .

Marketing Trends for 2010

Balihoo, a marketing technology and service provider, has made predictions regarding marketing trends for the new year.

With increasing difficulty in reaching prospects online, Balihoo predicts an increase in direct mail. The ability to effectively target, track and personalize direct mail, should contribute to this growth.

For more trends see the article .

To your success in the coming year.

Direct Mail Most Effective

According to a recent study by Exact Target, direct mail has been found to be the most effective marketing tool for influencing buying decisions. Direct mail beats out television, email and telemarketing. The study finds direct mail to be 18% more effective than email. Direct mail has proven effective in reaching consumers of all ages.

You can read the entire article at Printweek.

Issues and Benefits of Standard vs First Class Mail

National Mortgage Professional Magazine has a very informative article that applies to all direct mail marketers. Not only do they discuss the benefits of standard vs. first class mail, they also tell how to estimate delivery, track results and plan staffing for mail drops.

Read the whole article here and increase your knowledge and results.

Personalize Your Direct Mail

Research by Forrester Consulting reveals the benefit of personalized direct mail. According to their data 74% believe personalized, relevant material could be beneficial.

Additionally, over 60% still read off-line material even if they are heavy internet users.

Read the whole article here.

Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Although Brian Sacks wrote this article for National Mortgage Professional Magazine, the fundamentals apply to all industries and marketers. Read the whole article to avoid common mistakes.

Among the insights Brian shares are:

Don't think your campaign is a failure after only one mailing. Multiple impressions are imperative for success.

Hit the right target market. It is smarter to spend a little more money on a targeted list than sending to everyone and wasting money mailing to those who aren't qualified for your offer.

Make sure everything you do can be tracked and use this information to maximize your marketing dollar. Use a unique url and offer a free report which doubles as a sales tool. Don't forget to use deadlines, bonuses and calls to action.

To your success.