Kickin’ It Old School

"The Old School, Upper Mill, Saddleworth" used courtesy of dullhunk

I don’t use newsletters, and I tend not to read them unless they’re from my wife. If you’re reading this and I’m somehow on your newsletter list, don’t be surprised. The reason why is simple: I don’t opt in to any of them so I’m not really looking for any of the information they provide. I just want to be left alone. I’ll tell you when I want to hear about your November specials or the new employees you’ve hired. Promise. I’ve tended to look down my nose at “traditional” marketing methods because I’ve discovered the possibilities social media provides. But maybe it’s time for me soften my stance a little bit – old school marketing has its place. Instead of throwing it all out, why not make a little room for your social media too? If you’re sending out newsletters or email blasts, why not let those people know about your Facebook fan page or that you’re now on Twitter? The people who actually read your communications might just start engaging you on those platforms.

I’m tired of the fighting, the comparing of old to new and which is better. Social media isn’t going anywhere, but traditional media ain’t exactly gone either; the amount of television I watch and the number of newstands still in business can prove that. If you combine your efforts you’re not just finding new ways to grow your network online; you’re also creating a more comprehensive approach to reaching consumers. Go do that, because if you don’t, pretty soon you’ll be like the people in 1997 who thought that having a website was enough – nobody needed to be told about it. That’s not a good thing, just so you know.

How do you combine your efforts? I’d love to hear about it.

Tags: Marketing, Newsletters, Old School, Social Media