In Converting Offline Marketing to Online Sales Parts 1-3 we detailed a number of successful methods of driving offline marketing leads to an online business. Unfortunately, many internet marketers don't make the connection between offline and online marketing (also referred to as internet marketing) and as a result leave the potential for millions of dollars in sales on the figurative business table. In this final installment of the series we'll discuss 3 more ways that offline marketing can be converted to online sales: daily networking, business groups, and classified ads.
8.) Daily Networking
Every interaction, every transaction and every chance meeting is an opportunity to sell your website, and most people miss these opportunities. Why wouldn't you give your business card with a web address on it to your waitress at lunch, the salesman at the car dealership, the clerk behind the counter, the guy you chatted with while your tires were getting changed, the taxi driver, or anyone else that you encounter? Don’t be snobbish enough to think that these types of people won't bring traffic to your website, and don't think for a moment that all of them will toss your card unread.
Even if the people you encounter every day never go to your website, they'll probably remember what it is that you do, and if they like you or you made a favorable impression on them, they may pass your information along when someone they know needs what you have to offer.
Almost everything you do during the course of an average day will automatically provide ample opportunity to network. Carry lots of business cards with a prominently displayed web address and hand them out whenever you can without being intrusive, and chances are great that some of those offline efforts will result in online traffic and conversions.
9.) Business Groups and Associations
This is one of the most powerful and under-utilized methods of offline-to-online marketing available. Business groups from all over the country are having meetings and sharing ideas and contacts right now, so why aren't you a part of it? All it takes is a simple Google search or maybe a quick word with your local chamber of commerce to find out what types of meetings are occurring and when.
Most of these types of meetings are all about networking – other business owners looking to do precisely what you are: spread the word about the value of your products or services. In many of these meetings each business owner will be allotted a certain amount of time to introduce themselves and address the group. This time should be wisely used: your pitch should be not-too-salesy, but not too informal either. If you have a graphic aid that shows your website address, definitely use it.
Ultimately, joining and participating in these groups will not only bring you some excellent contacts that may end up driving your online sales, but you'll likely find like-minded individuals whose services or products YOU might need.
10.) Classified Ads
Many people thought that classified ads were killed with the advent of the internet, but what we've actually seen is that they're more powerful now than ever – especially as a method of driving offline leads online. In fact, this is one of the simplest and most inexpensive types of advertising available.
Consider this example ad; a simple one line ad in any number of publications and any number of different ad placements:
CheapElectroluxVacuums.com
That's it; that's all you need in some cases. That simple web address – which can be redirected to your actual website – tells the consumer everything they need to know; what is being offered, what the pricing is like, what brand it is and where to find it. Of course, classified ads can be much more elaborate – and more expensive – but the point is that people will visit websites that they see in classified ads.
So if paid search campaigns are too expensive and organic SEO just isn't the game you want to play, maybe it's time to start thinking outside the box – the search box, that is. To get started driving offline leads to your online business, call the number at the top of your screen now for an immediate consultation.