Types of Non-Traditional Marketing
Sometimes the usual marketing strategies, such as placing ads in newspapers, aren't enough. If you're trying to start a new business in a difficult economy or amid a throng of similar companies, consider novel marketing methods to attract clientele. The more attention you attract, the more potential customers will visit your business or website.
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Seminars
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Consider having educational seminars at your business, drawing people who want to learn about an aspect of your field, according to the book "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Guerilla Marketing." For example, if you have a swimming pool business, hold pool safety and keeping your pool clean seminars. If you have a jewelry business, have an identifying sterling silver or jewelry assessment seminar. Free seminars held at an optimal time, such as a Saturday morning, can draw many people who will linger to browse your merchandise afterward.
Stunt Marketing
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Public performances are another type of marketing. Instead of just holding a sign, a mascot might roam around gaining the attention of kids and families by singing or telling jokes, while giving out fliers for a business. Two or more mascots could do street performance, or involve seemingly ordinary people who are really actors. Funny and strange performances in public places will grab the attention of passers-by.
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Stealth Marketing
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According to Jacob E. Osterhout in "Stealth Marketing: When You're Being Pitched and You Don't Even Know It," some advertisers have turned to more covert methods. Young women have been paid to flirt with men to advertise Blackberry phones, having the men type their numbers into the phones, he says. Advertisers believe that when attractive, outgoing people are seen handling the products, others will be inclined to buy them.
Public Joke
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On April Fool's Day in 1996, Taco Bell announced in The New York Times that it was buying the Liberty Bell and renaming it The Taco Liberty Bell, says Geoff Williams in "Top 10 Successful Marketing Stunts." The company was joking, of course, but through the public outrage and subsequent amusement, Taco Bell boosted its sales. A clever public joke like this can gain much attention.
Events
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Having an event can draw crowds too. A boating company might sponsor a race, or a toy store might have a family day with games, prizes and toys to play with. A clothing store could have a fashion show using first-time models who apply for a part. Having beverages and snacks is a must, as well as prizes with the company logo on them.
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References
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