As 2016 draws to a close many people are talking about the special events and happenings of the past year. I prefer to focus on what’s in store for us in the coming year.
If you’re looking to grow your sales in 2017 you must increase the “desire” in your current and prospective customers to buy what you’re selling. Whether you need to increase the appeal of a packaged product sitting on the shelf, make a buyer aware of a new real estate development, or explain new services being offered at the local credit union, all of these situations require you to build “brand desire” in the eyes of the consumer.
The First Step to Increase Sales
Research shows that you have only a few seconds to capture the attention of the average consumer. To increase brand desire you must first get the attention of the consumer and this starts with first-class graphic design services. A knowledgeable packaging and creative services team can integrate dimensional printing techniques that will add tactile elements to a new package. Eye-catching photography can be used on personalized postcards, in an updated electronic newsletter design or in new membership drive designs. Whatever design elements you chose it’s important that you catch the eye of the consumer.
The Second Step to Increased Sales
Once the consumer takes notice of your product or services the next step is to impress them on a deeper level. The fact is the medium shapes the message. Research shows that people judge a product or service based on the type of paper and the quality of printing of the advertisement. The research is impressive. Check out what renowned neuroscientist Dr. David Eagleman, says about marketing, paper and the science of touch.
I was especially surprised that consumers not only had a positive first impression when reading a promotional piece printed on heavy high-quality paper stock they also remembered it longer.
The Third Step to Increased Sales
Once you have a great design and a beautiful promotional piece, you have to consider how best to get that promotional printed product into the hands of your current and potential customers. One of the best ways to accomplish this, even with tech minded millennials, is through direct mail.
Research shows that young adults read mail, even more that their parents and grandparents. Most people think of millennials as digital natives, glued to their smartphones, and the only way for to reach them is through online marketing channels like social media. The truth is 84% of millennials take the time to look through their mail. And 64% would rather scan for useful info in the mail than email.
Here are a few more interesting facts about millennials and direct mail:
- 77% of Millennials pay attention to direct mail advertising
- 90% of Millennials think direct mail advertising is reliable
- 57% have made purchases based on direct mail offers
- 87% of Millennials like receiving direct mail
Studies show millennials enjoy receiving mail even more than non-millennials. In fact, 50% of millennials say they like to discover what the mail brings every day and consider time spent looking at and reading it time well spent.
Three Steps to Increased Sales in 2017
When you’re looking to increase your sales during the next 12 months, examine the research and you’ll find that quality design, printing and mailing will be the key to your success.
Westamerica Communications is here to help with all of your marketing needs. In fact, we created a 2017 Marketing Planner to help with your marketing needs. You can download your free copy by clicking here.