Direct Marketing is a Marathon, Not a Race

Direct Marketing: A Marathon, Not a Race

How many impressions does it take before a prospect decides to purchase a product or service?

On average, it takes 7 to 10 impressions.

That’s why smart advertisers don’t use a “one and done” approach when it comes to direct mail and other forms of marketing.

As the old adage goes: Direct marketing is a marathon, not a race.

Ideally, a marketing blitz should have ads that engage with prospective customers across multiple online and offline vehicles. From the mailbox to the smart phone, products and brands need visibility, and consistent market exposure, to convert prospects into paying customers.

A healthy marketing mix should consist of direct mail, email, social media, local publications, and other popular mediums (such as tv or radio) that build trust and credibility among prospects, and increase the likelihood of “winning” the sale once the prospect decides to transact.

The Difference Between Digital and Direct Mail

While digital forms of marketing such as email blasts and websites provide consumers with quick and easy access to information, research has proven that digital has less authority and makes less of an impressionon consumers when it comes to purchasing.

Yes, digital is an extremely powerful and efficient way to provide information, however, new information can actually slow down the purchase decision-making process by adding variables to the purchasing equation.

Especially true at the local level, digital platforms are more frequently used for research and price shopping purposes, than for actual transactions.

Direct mail, on the other hand, delivers a much more meaningful, focused, and powerful punch.

According to a joint study between Millward Brown; Bangor University, North Wales, UK; and the Royal Mail, direct mail delivers a deeper and longer-lasting impression on people’s brains.

Researchers used neuroscience technology to monitor which areas of the brain became active when participants viewed both physical and digital advertisements.

Overwhelmingly, the study concluded that, “…the brain is more emotionally engaged with direct mail.” Further, the study suggested that the brain sees direct mail as “real” which acts as a catalyst for long-term memory generation.

A good analogy would be the difference between meeting someone online, or meeting them face-to-face and shaking their hand. The brain goes through a much deeper thought process and is “forced” to take physical action when encountering an offline experience. Physical offers deliver an experience that prospects can see, touch, taste (not recommended), smell, and even hear.

When handling a direct mail offer, a prospect must also decide, “do I want this or not?” Regardless of the decision, a physical interaction and powerful impression is created within the brain that provides both short and long-term value.

Key Benefits of Multiple Impression Direct Mail:
1. Defines your company/product/service to each prospect
2. Increases the authority and credibility of your brand
3. Shows prospects how you can help them
4. Gives prospects a reason to contact you (coupons, etc)
5. Delivers your offer “solo” without competitors
6. Creates deeper, more personal impressions