Offline advertising strategies

The majority of marketing messages still reach people through print media like newspapers and magazines, and through radio and TV. As a result, traditional adverts, press releases and company stationery can be combined with your online strategies to spread your promotional communication as far as possible.In other words, if you want to tell the largest possible number of people about your website, you can't limit your advertising campaign to the Internet.
Instead, offline media like newspapers, magazines, flyers and even business cards play a very important role in spreading the word about your site.

Press releases
Like its web-based equivalent, offline promotion doesn't need to be expensive. It can even be free. When there's a newsworthy event to publicise, like the launch of your new online store, you can send a press release to industry-related newsletters, other relevant publications or radio stations.Unfortunately though, with the large number of companies looking for free publicity, there's a chance that your press release won't actually be featured - especially if it's filled with marketing blurb instead of newsworthy information.

Print adverts
Although print adverts aren't free, there are so many options available that you'll be able to find a format that suits your budget. Nevertheless, whether you decide to place an advert in a national newspaper or targeted trade publication or use a full colour brochure, the principles stay the same. Regardless of its size, your ad doesn't really need to contain more than your website address and some text that will encourage people to visit it. All your marketing information can then be featured on your website which acts as a permanent online display. It can contain far more information than could be included in a full-page advert or even a brochure. Your site will also be more cost effective because it can always be updated – quickly and easily. To entice visitors to drop by at your online display, the text on your print ad should let them know that they'll actually gain something from visiting your site. People are more likely to drop by if they can take advantage of discount coupons, special offers, online ordering facilities or additional information.

Company stationery
Placing your URL on your company stationery – including business cards, letterheads and envelopes – is a very easy and cost-effective way of telling people about your site. With the ever-increasing number of Internet users, your website address is becoming as important as your phone number. Many of your potential customers will prefer to get information about your products and services from your website instead of phoning you. And if your site contains enough relevant information and provides answers to common questions you'll spend less time answering queries from possible clients.Regardless of the strategy you choose though, offline promotions shouldn't be overlooked. They form an integral part in the marketing of your website, ensuring that it's exposed to the largest possible number of people.

Source: http://www.gnuworld.com/