2. Marketing online has become fiercely competitive.
Marketers are attempting to unravel and decipher online
marketing to succeed. Some argue that there should not
be a distinction between traditional (off-line) marketing
and online marketing. Others feel that concepts applied to
mail order work well on the web, while still others argue
that online marketing is a breed of its own and what
works in one arena may not work in another. While some
standard practices like "above" the fold, hold true in both
print and online copy, it is rare that you see the printed
type face on the web the same as in printed
advertisements. Regardless there are traditional forms of
advertising that are viable and make sense to use on the
web but many marketers do not.
3. These undervalued marketing opportunities are not the
end-all be-all but are great supplemental channels, that
compliment strong online marketing campaigns.
5. Many print magazines offer free listings in buyers guides.
Buyers guides typically have a long shelf life and are
viewed as a product resource, meaning it is one of the first
places consumers look when wanting to purchase an item.
Often magazines will include product reviews or
sponsored placement in a buyers guide. Typically the
standard listing is free, but optionally vendors can increase
their exposure by adding listings in additional categories
for a nominal fee. Regardless the free listings are a great
value and worth pursuing.
7. The impartial overview from a credible source can spark
product interest. A third party independent review of your
product or service is seen as a vote of confidence. Invite
publishers or even bloggers to review your product or
service.
8. When requesting a review, it is proper net etiquette to
always provide the reviewer an evaluation product free of
charge. After the review, be sure to thank the reviewer
and if appropriate, link to the completed review.
10. Offering your time and expertise will establish expertise
and knowledge in a specific industry. Participants who
participate in forums have a genuine interest and are a
great target audience. Posting helpful information rather
than blatant product advertisements will enhance an
image.
12. Writing quality informative and educational articles will
also establish expertise. Articles also educate users about
related product or service. Generally educated users
require less technical help and are an easier sale because
they understand how the people or service will help them.
14. Provide content in an RSS feed. While RSS is becoming
very popular there are still a number of industries and
sectors where very little content is available via RSS feeds.
Placing quality content in an RSS feed and being "early to
market" will help your company shine.
15. When small businesses compete with big businesses there
are a number of areas in which they can compete
effectively. As more businesses turn to the web as an
advertising model, it is important that marketers and
businesses define themselves by giving themselves every
opportunity to be found. Utilizing undervalued marketing
opportunities will separate online successes from failures.
