Marketing Outside the Box

Want to create a buzz and get people talking about what you’re doing? How about doing the opposite of what people expect. Many people call this thinking outside of the box and this is where your right brain can definitely come into play. This is where you should start saying “why not” instead of “don’t go there.”

If you feel that your marketing message is constrained by certain parameters, ask yourself whether those parameters are real or imaginary. How far could you push the envelope without overstepping, how creative can you be without it backfiring? Whenever you see a viral video or hear of a highly successful “off the cuff” marketing initiative, try and take time to understand how the initiators formed their thoughts. Put yourself in the role of the most highly paid executive on Madison Avenue, famous for constantly thinking outside of the box and see how you could enhance your position.

If you are in a niche not known for its jocularity, inject some! Maybe you’re an accounting service provider – create a video about something funny and lighthearted around tax time.

Surprise all your clients and prospects by giving something of great value to them at no charge and also on a regular basis. Establishing yourself as the experts is, as we know, a smart move in the world of Internet marketing. Look into your crystal ball and see where the next growth area may be in your particular niche and then go out of your way to create a meaty white paper or newsletter.You will place a resounding stamp on the subject and put yourself ahead of the game.

Remember that not all journalists have their finger on the pulse and many of them have so many other projects going on that they’re more than willing to receive expert opinion on any matter or valuable insight that you could provide them. Use the power of public relations to your advantage. Once again, anticipate questions that arise and how you could link your niche to any hot, trending, newsworthy activities or events.

While you are feeling in a global and giving mode, consider hosting your own virtual tradeshow. This idea is emerging, just as the power of the Internet is increasing exponentially. As exhibition or attendance at any tradeshow can be costly and time-consuming, attendance at the virtual tradeshow can take place from the security of the office or a comfortable home. If you set up and host a virtual tradeshow within your industry, you can achieve a considerable brand recognition and some additional earnings potential as well.

If you are involved in Internet marketing and the provision of online services, you may well not have considered the gold mine that is literally outside of your door. Bricks and mortar operations can all benefit from online exposure and rather than focusing on marketing your products online all the time, approach some of the more than 50% of off-line businesses that have no web presence whatsoever.

Have you seen any great ‘outside the box’ marketing messages?

Matthew Toren