Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Keep In Touch Marketing

My birthday is in September, and I'm amazed at the volume of mail I'm getting from businesses to honor this special day. I don't think many of my family members will send a card, but I've received cards -- and even a small plastic bottle -- from the Nebraska Lottery, Canfield's Sporting Goods, and two local restaurants, among others. Real estate and insurance agents are masters of it: Keep in touch marketing.

It's the art (and science) of keeping your name in front of clients, prospects, referral sources, and the media. It's not difficult -- although it does take a commitment. It's not expensive, but it does require an investment of your time.

The goal of keep in touch marketing is to put something in front of your target audiences 6-8 times per year.

As Lois K. Geller, author of "Response! The Complete Guide to Profitable Direct Marketing" writes:

quote:

One of the best ways to develop customer loyalty is to establish ongoing communication with the people who are most important to your business. One of my favorite methods of ongoing communication is to offer customers education. Another method of continuing communication with your customers is to send them something they can use throughout the year to keep your name in front of them. It can be as simple as a refrigerator magnet or a pen with your name inscribed on it."

She goes on to say:

quote:

"Not all communication has to be offer-driven. You can write to give people information, to thank them for buying, to let them know you haven't heard from them in a while, or just to say hello. Of course, if you want to add an offer, that's fine too."

Other forms of communication programs include:
• Fliers
• Newsletters
• Educational Materials
• Birthday Cards
• Holiday Greetings
• Thank-you Notes
• Personalized Letters

Start planning your Keep in Touch marketing program today!

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