4 Examples of Online Marketing Tactics that Boost Sales

You probably hear the phrase “online marketing” thrown around a lot these days.

Some people say it’s the future of business and that if you’re not involved then you’re already behind. Others counter with a traditionalist view, saying that online marketing is a phase and you should stick with what is tried and true. No matter which camp you fall in, educating yourself about what online marketing really is and how it is being used is well worth your time.

Online marketing no longer just refers to annoying pop-up ads. Instead, there are creative and personal opportunities for you to consider for your business. Not convinced? I’ve found examples of these online marketing tools being used to drive leads and sales offline.

1. QR Codes (Quick Response Codes) – One example of effective QR code usage is the YMCA. At many branches, the YMCA has QR codes available. When scanned, it takes the user to download a free app with info on their fitness schedule, programs, etc. These codes can be scanned on smartphones, and they are pretty easy to get started with. You can make them, often for free, online and use them on your other marketing collateral like direct mail, print ads and even in-store signage.  When someone scans the code, they are taken to the link/destination of your choice.

2 & 3. Twitter & Online Review Sites– The Crème Brulee Cart uses Twitter to tell customers where it will be and when. Through Twitter, this offline shop has amassed 12,000 followers, 224 Yelp reviews and 4.5 star rating on Yelp.

4.  Blogging – GM was one of the first companies to blog and to this day, still has one of the most successful blogs.  Search engines love new and fresh “content” so that’s why so many companies are blogging.  The more content you can have on your site, the more edge you have with search engines. Not to mention, you can keep your customers informed and engaged via regular blog posts that are helpful and useful to their lives.

The one thing these campaigns have in common is that the companies are using a mix of traditional and online marketing tactics to drive sales.  The marriage of online and traditional is a strong and lasting one. What other ways have you seen businesses use digital marketing to drive sales? Any favorite examples? If so, tell me about it in the comments.