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
3. make sense to use on the web but many marketers do
not.
4. These undervalued marketing opportunities are not the
end-all be-all but are great supplemental channels, that
compliment strong online marketing campaigns.
6. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
11. 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.
13. 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.
15. 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.
16. 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.
