Digital and social media marketers want you to think direct mail is dead. But as the online world gets more saturated, consumers are craving tangible, “real life” brand experiences! At Imprint Engine, we’ve seen firsthand how in-person brand experiences can have a more powerful impact than digital experiences. With careful consideration and strategy, direct mail engages customers through multiple channels and encourages them to take action with your brand.
Need to Skim? Key Takeaways:
- Direct mail has a greater response rate and higher ROI than email and digital marketing.
- Direct mail gives your marketing strategy a personal touch, since consumers today receive less mail than ever before as more brands focus solely on digital.
- Imprint Engine takes a global, custom, all-in-one approach to creating memorable direct mail experiences.
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The Science Behind Direct Mail Success
It’s no surprise that physical brand experiences feel more personal than digital ones. Think about how different a face-to-face conversation feels compared to an email or text exchange. But there is a science behind direct mail success backed by numbers and marketing experts.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
It’s true: The average success rate of direct mail marketing is 31.49%, and the average response rate for direct mail is 4.4%, compared to 0.12% for email. If that’s not enough, direct mail has a median ROI of 29%, with some reports indicating an ROI as high as 112%!
Direct and Digital Work Together
If you’re not executing a multi-channel marketing strategy, you’re missing out on a lot of brand engagement. Direct mail and digital marketing work in tandem to better influence your audience. In fact, coordinating digital and direct mail marketing increased consumer response rate by 63%, increased website visits by 68%, and increased leads by 53%.
Foster Deeper Customer Connections
Like I mentioned earlier, a face-to-face conversation hits differently than an email exchange. In the same vein, an in-person brand touchpoint like direct mail feels more personal than digital outreach. The majority agree: 71% of consumers feel that direct mail is more personal than online communications. People receive less direct mail today than ever before, so physical letters, mailers, gifts, or handwritten notes are not only welcomed, they’re exciting.
Reach New Customers
Digital marketing reaches one consumer at a time, while direct mail goes to a household — a household with multiple occupants and visitors. Suppose your mailer includes a discount code or sale reminder; that piece of mail will likely stick around until your recipient uses it! Physical mail gives customers opportunities to spread the word about your brand, resulting in boosted brand awareness and inevitably, new customers. 39% of customers try a business for the first time because of direct mail advertising.
How Imprint Engine Can Drive Your Direct Mail Results
Though it may seem like a confined or even dated touchpoint, the sky is truly the limit when it comes to direct mail. Partnering with an agency like Imprint Engine can help tap into your creative potential and take time-consuming tasks like design, production and fulfillment management, reporting, and more off your plate. It is the most efficient way to ensure a successful direct mail campaign.
One Size Does NOT Fit All Approach
We understand that what works for one business may not work for yours! We get to know your brand as if it’s our own so that we can recommend a strategy that complements and highlights your unique identity. Your direct mail efforts should resonate with your customers’ needs without losing focus on your brand identity. Read more about how we can help build a strong, cohesive brand experience strategy.
Direct Mail Your Customers Actually Want
We’re not just creating filler for the recycling bin. We’re creating conversation pieces! Whether it’s a traditional mailer or an unexpected gift in a shareable unboxing experience, the key to a successful campaign is sending an eye-catching piece of mail that recipients will want to hang onto.
Global Teams with Regional Vendors to Support Your Direct Mail
Direct mail can easily become a logistical headache, especially for global companies. Imprint Engine is headquartered around the world with regional vendors that can give your direct mail campaign a local approach, so say goodbye to back-and-forth with customs and needless taxes or fees. Not only are we saving your time, we’re saving your money. Read more about our global operations.
Creative Services to Bring Your Direct Mail Dreams to Life
Our clients get a truly custom experience, which includes an array of tailored services from our team of talented creatives. From custom product design, illustration and lifestyle photography to custom web development and your very own dedicated project management team, we can bring any of your most “out-there” direct mail visions to life. Read more about our creative services.
Like How That Sounds? Let’s Get to Work
There are countless ways we can engage your audience with direct mail. If you’re ready to make your marketing strategy more personal and efficient, drop us a line. We’ve got ideas!
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We can’t wait to connect with you.