How to Sell a Product to Consumers

To sell your product to the consumer, use a range of marketing strategies.

To sell a product to consumers you must develop a marketing plan. The plan can include marketing strategies that have been effective through the years, like print advertising, and innovative electronic options. Before implementing the marketing plan, figure out the advantages your product holds over the competition and target the audience that would be most interested in purchasing it.

Instructions

1. Create a brand for your product by deciding what makes it better than the competition. It may be value, price, quality or innovation. Your product may be easier to use, or it may be more widely available. Use this benefit as your promise to consumers. This is your brand message. Define your brand by developing a logo using identifying colors and a distinctive font so it is instantly recognizable.

2. Target your audience by deciding who will be the most interested in purchasing your products. You may purchase targeted lists defined by demographics like location, age, vocation or income from a direct mail company. Use direct mail postcards and brochures to introduce the product to consumers. Include information about the product along with a "call to action," which might be an invitation to attend a promotional event like a special sale.

3. Establish a website with product information, pricing and general information to establish your company as a leader. Link printed material like advertisements and direct mail pieces to your website by using QR barcode technology. This logo-like graphic connects the consumer to your website instantly via a Smartphone application when the barcode is scanned. Create a "buzz" by talking up the product on social networking websites like Facebook and Twitter. If you can offer a demonstration or a plant tour, the video website YouTube is ideal.

4. Spread the word about your product by using a variety of advertising methods like newspaper and magazine advertisements, flyers, catalogs and commercials on television and radio. You can also sell your product by bringing it to the customer's attention with selected promotional items like pens and coffee cups with your logo imprinted. A new and innovative promotional item gaining attention is the preloaded zip drive, which can be produced with the name of your company and information about your product preloaded onto it.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a commercial printer for high-quality graphics and custom materials.

• Have your advertisement and logo professionally designed for the effect you desire.

• Use large format printing to make a big splash at a retail store or a trade show open to consumers. Posters, banners and billboards have high impact to potential customers.

References

• Buyer Zone: Direct Mail
• Microsoft Tag
• Brand Identity
• Internet Marketing Strategies & Tips