When giving business advice in 2024, almost all of it is nestled in some kind of digital appraisal. No matter, if you’re using management software to keep your tasks up to date and well assigned, using SEO services to raise your organic authority in search rankings, or even putting out content to explain your story and gain a loyal following, much business management takes place using digital tools now.
But does that mean everything has to be online? What if there are vital options for humanizing your brand and making it more “analog?” Could that be a good way to stand out at a time where businesses seem more virtual than ever? We believe there’s something to this approach, and it’s worth considering ahead of time.
With that in mind, please consider some of the following advice:
Printed Materials & Sharing
There’s something special about printed materials that shouldn’t be overlooked. Nice brochures, flyers, or even a printed newsletter to share with customers and potential clients can make a healthy impact. Such designs will show attention to detail and professionalism in a way that digital content can’t quite replicate. With printing and direct mail services, you can even make this a regular promotional pursuit in your local area.
Remember that when customers pass those printed pieces along to friends or family, it creates a personal connection that’s hard to achieve online. Word-of-mouth, the holy grail of marketing outcomes, can even be encouraged by that approach.
Attendance At Local Events
Sure, conducting business online is ultra-convenient these days, and there’s no reason you have to go full luddite to make a change. That said, there’s simply no substitute for face-to-face interactions. Make it a point to get out from behind the screen and attend local events, trade shows, or community gatherings relevant to your industry or target audience. Your physical presence and charming personality will allow you to connect with potential customers directly, answer their questions in person, and showcase your expertise in a way that videoconferencing or pre-recorded video can’t quite match. Remember, there’s a reason why canvassing politicians still knock on voter’s doors.
Sponsoring Initiatives & Supporting Communities
Attending events is fun, sure, but you can take community engagement a little further by sponsoring local initiatives or supporting community organizations aligned with your brand’s principles. If you’re a local sports shop, why not support your local team? As you can see, it pays to connect to culture.
This provides even more than just good PR – these efforts add a genuine human touch to your brand identity and help people appreciate you. They also showcase your sincere care for the well-being of the community you serve. Digital business is often quite disconnected from a local space, which is why many people bemoan services like Amazon killing the high street, even if they offer better value. Perhaps you could stem that tide.
With this advice, we hope you can make your brand more analog to the extent you find it suitable.