Direct mail can be an effective form of advertising.
There are many types of direct mail pieces that can be used for mass mailing. You might send an elaborate four-color brochure, or you may opt for an inexpensive postcard or letter. Some businesses send out catalogues, and still others reach their audiences with a coupon. When you choose the mailing piece, make sure you send it to a targeted audience to get the best results for the least amount of money.
Target Your Audience
Create mailing lists targeted to who would be the most likely to respond to a direct mail piece from your company. One easy way to create such a list is to keep track of your customers. Build a targeted list of people who can turn into repeat customers. You may have a service or product that new home owners should know about, especially if your community brings in people from outside of the area. It is easy enough to find the names and addresses of people just moving in on the Internet or by paying a visit to the township clerk’s office. You can build or buy a list with particular demographics, such as people living in a particular area or people in a particular income range. You may want to reach people who have expressed interest in a product or service similar to yours.
Think Outside the Envelope
When you send out a promotional letter, don’t forget about the envelope. Customers need a reason to open the envelope and read the offer. Many people just glance at the envelope and toss in into the "circular file." With a catchy phrase like "Free Gift Inside," you will provide potential customers with an incentive to investigate further. The gift can be something as simple as a bookmark for a direct mail piece offering a discount for a book, newspaper or magazine subscription. For other products and services you might include a keychain or pen with your logo, a small toy, or a product sample.
Direct Mail Coupon Packets
Don’t overlook direct mail coupon packets to reach your audience and sell your product or service. According to Valpack, more and more consumers are looking for value. A coupon sent to the right customer can trigger a sale.
Effective Mailing Pieces
When you create your mailing piece, give some thought to creating eye-catching, creative graphics and compelling copy that calls for action on the part of the customer. Include your logo and tagline, and make sure your contact information is in a format that is convenient for the customer such as a tearoff sheet. There are companies that specialize in these services if you do not have the resources.
Tags: direct mail, direct mail piece, mail piece, mailing piece, make sure