Try a Traditional Marketing Strategy Mix up

With so many marketing options to consider nowadays, it is essential to find just the right mix of old- and new-school techniques in regards to branding, marketing, and interacting. After all, people are still reading magazines and newspapers, watching TV, and listening to the radio, but more and more people are doing all of these things online. And the newer marketing options now in the picture, such as blogs, podcasts, social media platforms, emails, and text messages, can be even more confusing. What's a business to do?

In order to make the most of your marketing efforts, it is important to take the time to find the right opportunities for your unique products and services, as well as your target audience. And as difficult as it may sometimes be–given the fast-paced, scan-the-text realities of modern technology–it is crucial to stay connected with these 2 powerful, time-tested truths: 1) a clear message, and 2) a professional business approach that revolves around engagement, consistency, and innovation.

Your brand's message, or mission, should not only convey your company's originality and authenticity, but also what you offer and why it's better than the competition, because transparency is important to consumers.

Of course, being professional in all that you do is fundamental (and just good 'ol common sense). However, there must be a focus on dependability, as well as improvement, in the approaches you take when marketing your brand.

If you haven't already, add these web-based marketing essentials to your traditional marketing mix this year, or if you already use them–step up and dive in a little deeper:

• The Website: Obviously, a website is a must in today's business world. When is the last time you updated your company site for better SEO, new browser capabilities or smart phone and tablet display? Don't be afraid of brand makeovers, either.
• Social Media Platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Linked-In, etc. Find the right outlets for your unique business. Be sure to use them wisely, and try not to bite off more than you can chew or let them sit dormant for too long.
• The Blog: It is so, so, so important to post regularly when maintaining a blog. This helps to establish credibility. Use it to create a niche, become the expert in your field, share unique content, build relationships, and promote offline endeavors.
• Email Marketing: For email marketing to really pay off–honesty, consistency, quality, relevancy, and succinctness are essential. Email marketing is effective and relatively inexpensive, and a great way to engage with existing customers and connect to new, potential customers.

Another option to consider that isn't necessarily "essential", but can undoubtedly boost marketing effectiveness is the podcast. If you can record and promote unique interviews, news stories, commentaries, etc., from experts in the field–including yourself–then there are certainly listeners waiting to hear it, and possibly even share it for you.

In addition to the marketing essentials discussed above, more traditional approaches to remain especially loyal to are offline events and societal contributions.Attending conferences, seminars, and workshops to meet people in your industry and participating in community events to engage with the local public are great for advancing both professionally and socially. And you will undoubtedly be rewarded for showing that you really care through giving back to the community, helping others in need, providing services free of charge, and paying good fortune forward.

Have a Pawsitively Tail Waggin' Good Day!

P.S. This information was provided by Ruff Haus. Established in 1997, we are a special breed of full brand design firm that works with a premier pack of clients. We bring a fresh outlook and tail-wagging enthusiasm to your marketing program.