In today’s business world, it’s only possible to succeed with a strong online presence. But even if you’re focused on building your website and generating leads online, you should still pay attention to tried-and-true offline business strategies. Here are a few traditional business tools to help your tech-driven business succeed.
Business Cards
In the digital age, it may seem like business cards are a thing of the past. But even if you’re doing most of your online networking and marketing, having a stack of business cards is still important. Why? Because you never know when you’ll meet someone who could be a potential customer or client. Having a business card to give them will help ensure that you stay top of mind when they’re ready to buy.
Why it Matters in a Tech-Driven Business
A business card is a tangible way to make a connection with someone. It’s a physical representation of your brand that you can leave with potential customers and clients. And because it’s small and easy to carry around, you can always have it on hand when needed.
How to Utilize it in a Tech-Driven Business
While you may not hand out business cards as often as you did in the past, having them is still important. Make sure your business cards are up-to-date, and always keep a few with you when you’re attending events or meeting new people. You never know when you’ll make a valuable connection.
Direct Mail
Another offline strategy that can be surprisingly effective for tech-driven businesses is direct mail. If you have a database of potential customers, sending them postcards or other promotional materials can help generate leads and drive sales. And thanks to advances in printing and mailing technologies, direct mail is more affordable than ever.
Why it Matters in a Tech-Driven Business
In a world where most marketing is digital, direct mail can help you stand out from the crowd. Because it’s a physical piece of collateral, it’s more likely to be noticed and remembered than an email or online ad. And because you can target your audience precisely, you can ensure that your materials are seen by people interested in your products or services.
How to Utilize it in a Tech-Driven Business
When using direct mail, start by segmenting your audience into different groups. Then, create targeted messages and offers that will appeal to each group. Finally, use a reputable printing and mailing service to ensure that your materials are delivered on time and within budget.
Promotional Products
Another offline strategy that can be effective for tech-driven businesses is promotional products. You can increase brand awareness and generate leads by giving away branded items like pens, coffee mugs, or tote bags. And because promotional products are inexpensive, they’re a great way to stretch your marketing budget.
Why it Matters in a Tech-Driven Business
Promotional products are a great way to get your brand in front of potential customers. And because they’re tangible items, people are more likely to remember your brand when they see it. Plus, promotional products can be used in various marketing campaigns, from trade shows to direct mail.
How to Utilize it in a Tech-Driven Business
Promotional products like pens and mugs are great for giving away at events. But you can also use them in direct mail campaigns or as part of a loyalty program. For example, you could give away a branded mug to customers who spend a certain amount at your store. Or you could include a promotional pen in every direct mail piece you send out.
Hire an Actual Assistant
In a world where technology is everywhere, it can be easy to forget the importance of face-to-face interactions. But if you’re running a tech-driven business, it’s important to remember that only some people are comfortable using technology. That’s why hiring an assistant who can help with scheduling appointments and handling customer service can be an important part of your business.
Why it Matters in a Tech-Driven Business
While technology is important, some tasks are best handled by humans. When you have an assistant, you can offload tasks that take away your time, like scheduling appointments and responding to customer emails. And because they’re dealing with people face-to-face, they can help build relationships with your customers.
How to Utilize it in a Tech-Driven Business
When hiring an assistant, look for someone organized and detail-oriented. They should also be comfortable using technology, as they’ll be helping you with tasks like scheduling appointments and sending emails. For example, a construction admin assistant can help with document management if you are in the industrial business, as they will handle construction documents, processes, administration, and management. They should also be able to work independently and be proactive.
Print Advertising
While print advertising may not be as popular as it once was, it can still be an effective way to reach your target market. When placed strategically in publications your target market reads, print ads can help build brand awareness and generate leads. And like direct mail, advances in printing technology have made print advertising more affordable than ever.
Why it Matters in a Tech-Driven Business
Print advertising can be a cost-effective way to reach your target market. And because it’s a physical piece, people are more likely to remember your brand when they see it. Print ads can target specific demographics, making them more effective than general online advertising.
How to Utilize it in a Tech-Driven Business
When placing print ads, choosing publications your target market reads is important. For example, if you’re targeting construction workers, you might place an ad in a trade magazine. Or, if you’re targeting businesses, you might place an ad in a business publication. You can also use print ads as part of a direct mail campaign. For example, you could include an ad in every direct mail you send.
Start Building Your Brand Now
Don’t let the fact that you run a tech-driven business fool you into thinking that traditional offline strategies aren’t worth your time and money. From business cards to print advertising, plenty of offline tools can help you build your brand and generate leads. So remember to use them!
