Social media marketing has proved to be accurate, effective and really specific when it comes to marketing. Tools that allow you to choose your target audience, use images and persuasive content to the best extent have transformed the way we inform, educate & market our services & products. Does this mean our old-school methods of sales reps and word of mouth marketing are not effective anymore?
On the contrary, these methods are still valuable.
Online platforms have no doubt given you access to potential customers across the world but nothing can replace a friendly handshake, an unforgettable smile, and a word of trust!
Sales reps have always been perceived as annoying obstacles to a peaceful afternoon siesta but are also considered as one of those irreplaceable communication methods that have succeeded in the past. The scope to make a personal connection with a physical presence is always memorable and more impactful. Potential customers are freer to voice their doubts and can expect instant assurance.
Marketing campaigns offline have their own charm. Stalls at college campuses, trade fairs and any public event, like a marathon or public rallies will give you a chance to connect with potential customers, face-to-face. They will be able to associate a face with the brand and will be in a better position to make a trustworthy decision. They can even get a physical experience through a demo of your product or your service, which will ascertain their purchasing decision. Such stalls are great points of study for you; you will be able to analyse customer behaviour, the demand your product has, the response of customers towards your product/service.
And of course, last but not the least, the power of networking. Networking, today, is possible anywhere, anytime given remote audio & video conferencing tools. But, nothing beats talking business over a hot cup of coffee, sharing personal stories in a free-flowing manner, laughing over business jokes, confiding in each other’s problems and embarking upon a business relationship by looking into each other’s eyes with confidence and trust. All this is much more than networking. It is humanity. No matter what gadget you build, the best business relationship is built on the grounds of humanity-something which no technology can replace!
