April Picks!

Using Direct Mail to Generate Leads

Even with the growth of newer marketing mediums like e-mail and social media, direct mail remains a very effective way to generate leads and sales.  After all, everyone reads - or at least glances at - their mail. 

        We've put together some tips to help you get the most from your direct mail efforts:

Choose your mailer carefully.  Direct mail can take many forms, from simple postcards to sales letters, brochures, invitations and next-day packages.  Define your goals and budget, and then choose your format.  Ask your printer for pricing information and advice.

Grab attention.  If you're using a postcard, use a headline that will quickly capture the recipient's attention.  If you're sending a letter or other mailer, including a small promotional item to make it "bulky" can significantly increase your open rate.  Choose an item that fits the theme of your mailing, such as coffee packets because you can help energize the prospect's sales, or a pen because you're going to help them write more contracts.

Keep it straightforward.  Get to the point quickly.  Stress the value you offer and what sets you apart from the competition.

Focus on benefits.  Don't just list the features of your product or service - tell prospects how it benefits them.

Ask readers to take the next step.  One of the most critical parts of any direct mail campaign is the call to action.  Tell prospects exactly what you want them to do next, whether it's visit your website, download a report, or call or e-mail you.

Provide an incentive.  Offer something for responding, such as a free consultation, a special report on a USB pen, or a gift tailored to your audience.  A company selling RV insurance, for example, offered an auto safety flashlight kit, while a health care company used pedometers and medicine organizers.

Include a P.S.  Research shows that a P.S. is one of the most-read parts of a direct mail campaign.  Keep it short (one or two sentences) and reiterate your key benefit, your offer, and your call to action.

Direct mail can be a very powerful and cost-effective prospecting tool when it's done right.  We can help with your next campaign - give us a call to learn more!

Product Spotlight...

Make Every Day Earth Day

      Consumers continue to seek eco-friendly products and reward companies with green practices.  Everything from green electronics to housewares are now available.  Here are some of the interesting items we've seen lately:

Get Charged Up - This super-thin keychain solar charger powers up cell phones and MP3 and MP4 players.  It makes a great employee incentive or tradeshow gift. 
 

Off to Sleep - One click of this convenient power-saving button puts a computer into sleep mode to save energy.  It's perfect for your office staff, and would make a great giveaway for office supply and computer stores.       

Keep Your Cool - This insulated cooler is made of 50% recycled material, and it's just the right size for a picnic lunch or a six-pack.