Good point SMS! I think you can speak for the majority. Our attention is precious so it's easy to ignore mass mailings. The internet has definitely changed things - it's given us unlimited choice and as a consequence things that try and interrupt us are ignored. Attention can no longer be brought, it can only be earned.sundaymorningstaple wrote: Obviously I can't speak for the majority nor the minority. I can only speak for myself. If the sender isn't in my address book or I'm expecting mail from a specific source, I don't open it. It's an old habit born in the days of crappy virus protection and I've never changed. If you tried targeting me, you would just lose your money.
I think the only viable way to run effective marketing campaigns is to "get into the address book" - that is to be expected and relevant, to first gain permission to continue the interaction and meet people who are reaching out to your solution.
Going back to the original post, as well as the other great advice, I would recommend trying the following:
* Get clarity on your target market. "People who need design and printing" is too big, "Event Promotors in Singapore that need design and printing" is targeted. You can't (and shouldn't) try to please everyone as this is the sign of blandness (there are plenty of others who can do that - why compete in a big pond?).
* Understand that you are there to solve problems. Figure out what problems your target market are facing and tailor your offerings so that the particular pain points can be removed.
* Start a blog if you haven't got one already. Start building a portfolio. Discuss how you make things better. Show people you have know what you are talking about. Give people value for free and they will come to you when they need your service.
* Put yourself in your customer's shoes. How do they search for the solution you provide? People google to find answers - figure out the question and use adwords to drive people to your site.
* Consider doing free work. Redesign brands you admire, offer free design consultations or advice on the printing options available.
* Find local designers and offer them some sort of introductory rate to try your printing service. Package it in the way that makes it easier for the designer - you have the mindset of both so search deep for insights.
Keep going and good luck!
