FOUR MARKETING STRATEGIES THAT HAVE ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO DO WITH SOCIAL MEDIA
I recently found an intriguing podcast interview with Roxane Gay titled "Should we all quit social media?" and it got me thinking. Is it just me, or is everyone cutting back on social media in the new year? Or even sooner?
As someone in the digital marketing industry, I constantly struggle between staying current with the latest trends and caring for my mental well-being. I've found it increasingly challenging to consume social media without feeling overwhelmed. Can you relate?
That's why I made a decision a few weeks ago that has transformed my creative freedom. Every Tuesday, I delete my Instagram app from my phone, reinstalling it only on Mondays to post about Moon Makers. While I can still access and post from the desktop application, it's less interesting and more challenging to navigate.
I chose to reduce. the time I spend consuming others and focus more on living my own. Reality TV is also on my chopping block. But before I cancel my Peacock subscription, let me share four marketing strategies that have absolutely nothing to do with social media.
1. Email marketing
If you've worked with me before, you know I prioritize an email-first marketing strategy. By crafting noteworthy emails, we can repurpose the content, condense it, and share it on social media. Did you know that, statistically, email marketing has the best return on investment (ROI) compared to nearly every other platform? For every $1 business owners spend on email marketing, they'll get an impressive $36 in return. On the other hand, social media marketing has an average ROI of around $2.80 for every $1 spent. Quite a difference, right?
Why is this the case? I have my theories, but it all comes down to energy. Think about how you check your email versus scrolling through social media. You're more intentional, focused, and tuned in when you check your email. On social media, it's easy to get lost in cat memes, stalk high school friends, and save recipes we both know I’ll never see again.
So, what makes a great email? I want to think it's something like the one you're reading right now. It's a think piece, a unique perspective, a captivating story, or something else entirely. Many talented individuals I work with have countless ideas but need help writing a blog post or creating a video. If this sounds like you, I'd love to offer a 1:1 session to help you overcome any blocks you may have and take action. In most cases, we spend too much time-consuming content and need more time creating it!
2. Attend in-person events
Interestingly, there has been an upsurge in in-person events lately, especially during December. From retreats to half-day workshops, people are craving face-to-face connections. While I tend to limit my in-person encounters (and, let's be real, the number of times I leave the house), there's something about connecting with others in person, particularly during the winter. It helps combat that feeling of isolation; you never know who you might meet in your industry.
3. Good old-fashioned direct mail
Ah, snail mail! Before starting my journey with Yoga Brain, I spent nine years in the non-profit direct mail industry. Receiving a card or handwritten note in the mail still holds a special place in my heart. While the non-profit and wellness worlds may differ, I firmly believe there's no sweeter way to connect with your customers and clients than the old-fashioned way. With the holidays upon us, why not send out a thoughtful card to let people know you're thinking of them? I personally enjoy sending one in the New Year, but any occasion works perfectly, too.
4. The joy of Slack communities
Lastly, I want to share my newfound love for Slack. I'm currently part of three groups, and they've quickly become my favorite spaces to hang out online. These communities are filled with fascinating articles, engaging conversations, and the best folks you can find online. There's just something about this space that harkens back to how social media used to be.
So, let's shake things up! Step away from constantly scrolling and try implementing some of these alternative strategies into your marketing plan. Which one will you try in the new year?