Considering how attached people are to their e-mails and the Internet, you might expect digital media to be the be-all and end-all tool for promoting engagement. But as new research published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology illustrates, that in-person communication is 34 percent more effective than digital at getting results. That means scheduling more face-to-face marketing interactions, and bringing along the right promotional items to the meeting.
Research participants reported being 34 percent more likely to respond to a survey if they were asked in person rather than online because they viewed in-person requests as more trustworthy than email requests. That’s because nonverbal cues, like body language, eye contact, and tone of voice, make in-person communication so much more impactful and genuine, and ultimately help build relationships.
These cues can also include the generous act of gifting someone promotional items after meeting with them. Emails get thrown in the trash after (or even before) reading, and banner ads are blocked out; but a branded giveaway can stick with someone long after it’s received. So the next time you’re about to hit send on that e-mail, offer to meet the recipient over coffee instead. Show them how much you care about their business with a handshake and branded glass water bottle. You can use it to schedule your next follow-up meeting, maybe over coffee.
Want some advice on making that face-to-face marketing meeting unforgettable? Book an appointment with us by clicking here or call us at 248-538-4700. Mention the blog, and we’ll send you some SMART Swag as a thanks for reading!