I read a very interesting post by Justin Brooke on “why do marketers suck”. They are strong words, but they help you think “out of the box”. In a world where we are hit 1500+ times a day with marketing tactics a new approach to getting your products out there is necessary.
What does it take to draw your target customer in?
Anymore it is a challenge to draw your customers in. We and they are bombarded by marketing left and right. Marketing won’t ever slow down, but it will change. In a world vying for our attention the newest and best marketing tactic will always be employed to draw us in.
What do you think would attract your target market?
I would say it would be definitely not following everyone else and their tactic. The “out of the box” approach is the way to go. But I would not go for the amazing shock their pants off approach. Customers are becoming calloused to that style of marketing. Well at least I am very calloused to that style of marketing. I am a bit embarrassed to admit this, but I have been drawn in hook, line and sinker to IM gurus for beaucoup bucks. I thought their amazingly expensive product would turn my business upside down. Well, for awhile it turned my business from black to red. UGH!
What I realized is the “genuine” friend next door helped my business. The friend you could talk to anytime and come to rely on. I love this way of interacting with everyone interested in candles, soaps, silicone molds and online and offline business.
I feel that when you market from the friend next door approach customers browsing your site can feel it through what you portray on your website.
Isn’t that what you are looking for when you consider a new product or company to invest your money and time in? Don’t you want a business that you can rely on and turn to in times of need and trouble, joy and happiness? Don’t you want a business that would encourage you?
It may sound like a tall order, but if you go into your business thinking what can I do for my customers today and not what can they do for me then you have that half licked.
I thought this quote from Carrie Wilkerson was a great approach to marketing.
“Try to attract your customers and not attack them”.
Trying to attract your customers with your unique style of marketing will keep them coming back. Give your customers the experience they are looking for when you market your products and yourself.
Does your marketing have your character, conversation, content and consistency?
That is what a friend next door does. They have great character, conversation, wonderful content and are consistent. They are fun and encourage you. They want to learn more about you. They try not to give false advice or knowledge and they don’t take care of you one minute then leave you stranded the next.
If you are not already doing this style of marketing take a stab at it. See what it does for you and your business.
I would love to hear your thoughts.