Ah, the good old leaflet distribution strategy – because who doesn't love getting a bunch of flyers crammed into their letterbox? But let's face it, relying solely on this marketing tactic is a surefire way to end up in the bin (or recycling, for you environmentally conscious folks) alongside all the other junk mail.
Here's the thing – people are bombarded with advertising everywhere. From billboards to television commercials to pop-up ads on their phones, they're constantly being sold to. So why should they give your leaflet a second glance?
And let's remember the cost. Printing and distributing leaflets can add up quickly, especially if targeting a large area. And for what? A measly return on investment?
But maybe you're thinking, "But wait, I've had success with leaflet distribution in the past!" Sure, it might work for some businesses in certain situations, but relying solely on this strategy is a big mistake.
Here's why >>>>>
Limited reach: Leaflet distribution is a passive form of marketing. You're hoping someone comes across your flyer and takes the time to read it. But what about all the people who don't happen to cross paths with your flyer? You're missing out on a massive chunk of potential customers.
Lack of targeting: When distributing leaflets, you're casting a wide net and hoping to catch some fish. But what if you could target your marketing efforts to specific demographics or income levels? With leaflets, you can't control who receives them or where they end up.
Lack of personalisation: Let's face it – leaflets are impersonal. They're the same for everyone who receives them. But consumers seek personalised experiences that make them feel seen and understood. When you rely solely on leaflets, you're missing out on an opportunity to connect with your audience on a deeper level.
Limited shelf life: Unlike digital marketing or other forms of print advertising, leaflets have a short shelf life. Once they've been distributed, they're often forgotten or discarded. And if someone holds onto your leaflet, it's likely to get lost in a pile of other papers or a drawer somewhere.
So what should you do instead? It's time to diversify your marketing strategy. Here are a few ideas:
Utilise social media: Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are great tools for reaching new customers and building brand awareness. Post regularly, engage with your audience and utilise paid advertising to get even more people.
Focus on local SEO: Make sure your website is optimised for local search so that when people in your area search for products or services like yours, your business shows up at the top of the results.
Offer incentives: Everyone loves a good deal. Offer exclusive discounts or promotions to customers who sign up for your email list or follow you on social media.
Host events: Whether a grand opening or a customer appreciation day, hosting events is a great way to connect with your community and get people excited about your business.
Partner with other businesses: Collaborate with companies in your area to cross-promote each other and reach new audiences.
Invest in email marketing: Build a strong email list and send regular newsletters or promotional emails to keep your audience engaged and informed about your business.
Utilise video marketing: A video is a powerful tool for capturing people's attention and building a connection with your audience. Create engaging video content and share it on your website and social media channels.
Focus on customer reviews: Encourage happy customers to leave reviews on sites like Google. Positive reviews can go a long way in attracting new customers.
Relying solely on leaflet distribution as your only marketing strategy is a recipe for failure. While it might work for some businesses in certain situations, the limited reach, lack of targeting and personalisation, and short shelf life make it a less effective and costly option in the long run.
Diversifying your marketing strategy and incorporating digital marketing, local SEO, events, email marketing, video marketing, and customer reviews can help you reach a wider audience, build brand awareness, and connect with your community more meaningfully. Taking a multi-channel approach and embracing new marketing tactics can elevate your business's visibility and make it stand out.
If you'd like help with Marketing and want to move away from flyers. We can help.
Local Marketing Made Easy is a full-service local marketing agency based in Greenwich, London. We can show you how a good marketing strategy can increase sales - ultimately putting more money in your pocket.
To see how we can help your business, call us on (0203) 303 0625 or book a callback request via the form below.