Start-ups struggle with deciding which kind of marketing to use and trail-runs are to be avoided because their budget only shadows a certain targeted audience. This is when the decision to use digital marketing vs. tradition marketing comes into play.
To clarify these terms, traditional marketing refers to the use of printed ads on newspapers and magazines, commercials both on TV and radio, and printed flyers that are either handed out or put in mailboxes. Digital marketing refers to the use of social media tools and online ad campaigns to expand a targeted audience. Through it, companies develop websites or blogs that provide industry news and information about their products.
So which one do I use?
Benefits of Traditional Marketing
It catches us when we are unaware. It’s hard to ignore a billboard beaming call to actions or commercials that start to pull at the heart strings.
The material can be kept. Although some of the tangibles will be thrown away, a hard copy is personalized and consumers appreciate being targeted.
Catch your readers on their spare time. Newspapers and magazines are what people tend to read with their morning coffee or while waiting for their flight – if you have time you will probably look at or read an ad.
Downside of Traditional Marketing
One and done. The consumer only has one source of media to go off of. So as a company, you have to make sure the Timbit of information will both draw them in and make them ask questions.
Print, radio and TV advertisements can be costly. Posting services and materials add up quickly, and TV and radio are competitive.
Very targeted. I know, segmenting your market is important but if the audience you targeted isn’t receptive, the money you have spent could have been better used elsewhere.
Benefits of Digital Marketing
Targeting local includes international. You can tailor a campaign to a specific audience but it will quickly spread to others.
Digital marketing is measurable. With Google Analytics and social media platforms offering insight tools, you can see how your campaigns or ads are running in real-time. If it’s not performing, remove it.
Levels the playing field. If you are just joining the industry, you can compete with any competitor with a solid digital marketing strategy.
Downside of Digital Marketing
It needs some alone-time. Since we have access an unlimited supply of information (Google), we have developed a sense of urgency. But, digital marketing takes time. For an example, with a Search Engine Optimizer (SEO) the website needs time to climb up to a dominant position.
“A common misconception is that online ads will have an immediate effect”
Digital Marketing is needy. According to some studies, digital marketers spend at least 6 hours per day on their digital marketing efforts. Some even say they spend 11+ hours working online every day.
Attracts the wrong kind of attention. Although real-time engagement can be assuring, negative responses to your efforts can be closely associated with your brand.
You want to know which one to use? My answer is it depends. Each business offers something unique and different to their consumer. A marketing strategy should follow show a niche and reach the audience you want to sell to.
Any more benefits or downsides you can think of? Share your thoughts in the comment section or give us a call: (778) 760-1616
