What sets direct response marketing apart from other forms of selling, is that it is personalized to the viewers’ interests. Direct response marketing takes other information into account. This way, the client is interested in the message being advertised, sometimes more-so than the product itself.
That being said, how is a successful direct response marketing campaign implemented for a product or service?
What Is Direct Response Marketing?
Direct response marketing is a form of advertising that is used to elicit immediate feedback. The channel that is used to advertise is often interactive. This means that the prospect confronts with responding with either interest or disinterest. This device could be:
- A phone number;
- Coupon;
- Business reply card;
- Response to a mandatory question.
The activity that takes place between the channel of advertising and potential client can then be tracked, analyzed and measured for business growth purposes. It is an effective way to measure the company’s appeal to consumers. It is even more effective in stimulating sales.
Who Uses Direct Response Marketing?
Direct response marketing can be used by any business or sole proprietor willing to bring strategy into their marketing.
If a student loan company is receiving clientele by advertising with a mandatory survey on the local university’s webpage, they are successfully using direct response marketing. If the students enter their email into the device because they are interested and it is forwarded to the loan company’s email address, it is the perfect clientele list.
Ways in Which Direct Response Marketing Can Help Your Business
- It has proven to be one of the most effective ways to generate sales, digitally and manually. There are endless ways to implement direct response marketing devices online. Direct response marketing efforts should always aim toward internet contact through emails, links and heavy social media usage. The internet is what makes this direct response analysis immediately possible. This method allows business owners to experience an influx of calls and online activity which is, of course, what business wants.
- All around, it makes you much more visible to the perfect list of clientele. It is a tool that can also eliminate having to spend money on other areas of advertising, which may not be providing business with as great of a response rate.
- The great thing about specifying clientele is having a customer base that also wants to advocate your product and spread the word. One satisfied customer can result in 10 customer referrals. That is exactly what a growing business wants.
6 Ways to Successfully Implement Direct Response Marketing
1. The Direct Response Marketing Platform Should Have a Simple Interface
The interface is easy-to-use and respond to. With a message that is clear and to the point, clients are more likely to take interest in the product and click on any links that associate with it.
2. If You Offer a Deal, Make Sure to Set a Time Limit on It
If the customer only has a few days to take advantage of the sale, they are more likely to take immediate action. Consider inserting a digital countdown clock within the advertisement. When the buyer can see that there is only a given period time in which they can take advantage of the sale, it builds a sense of urgency.
3. Consider What Options the Customer Has for Their Response
Is it through email, phone or by clicking on a link? Also, reflect upon on what is most efficient in terms of analyzing response information. If it is easy for them to take interest, it’s more likely that they actually will.
4. Have an Immediate Call-to-Action
Use this especially when a client shows interest in the product. With a quick response to their inquiry you are more likely to increase the chances of a sale. By contacting them when the idea is fresh in their head, it illustrates to the customer that you are professional and appreciate their interest.
5. Use Clarity, Vividness and Engaging Images
By using all of the sales techniques that you are familiar with, along with direct response marketing, it will only increase sale potential. Catchy phrases, complimentary color schemes and quality content are all essential.
6. Know the Terms You Use
There is a difference between direct response marketing and image marketing (which is prevalent with large corporations.) Smaller businesses don’t always have the funds initially to only put company images onto online ads or public billboards. Even with international customers, there will still be a lot of people who are unfamiliar with your product. These types of images aren’t enough to motivate strangers to investigate further. The more information, the better!
To the Response
A successful entrepreneur or business provides quality to their customers and in order to build trust, value is essential. But, just having value is not going to drive up sales. The seller must focus on sale strategies. The more information the seller has on direct response marketing platforms, the more likely they are to engage clientele while spending less on advertising. Having the ability to analyze feedback and alter marketing techniques immediately can save time and money. These responses also illustrate to the seller, which channels are worth the investment. Keep in mind that there are also other businesses that can perform this type of marketing for you.
The goal is to work smarter, not harder. Direct response marketing is efficient and can provide the seller with real-time information regarding the client’s response or interest. It is one of the few ways to collect valuable information before investing money into a marketing scheme that doesn’t guarantee delivery. The best part about direct response marketing is that it gives the seller an opportunity to self-reflect, learn more about their buyers and learn more about themselves in the process.
The images are from depositphotos.com.