Direct Marketing / List Buying / Telemarketing

Direct marketing refers to marketing messages that are sent directly to the consumer, negating the need to use another media as a 'middleman' to reach its audience. While email marketing can be an effective form of direct marketing, on a larger scale the practice includes 'offline' methods including the mail and  telephone. Using offline direct marketing can add a more personal and physical touch to marketing messages as opposed to email, although it can be more time-consuming and expensive. Many marketers are attracted to direct marketing as it is extremely accountable, prompting a direct response from the consumer which can be measured to track return on investment. However, the practice has come under fire for generating unwanted solicitations, or 'junk mail'. Sending messages by a mailshot is the most commonly used form of direct marketing, and provides marketeers with a number of format options. Items sent via direct mail can include just about anything that you can post, with the most popular formats including catalogues, letters, vouchers and sample mechandise. Meanwhile, telemarketing services let marketers contact the customer via the telephone. This can work both ways, with the seller contacting the consumer, or promotions encouraging consumers to phone a dedicated call centre. The key to successful direct marketing campaigns relies on targeting the people most likely to respond, and this requires the right leads. List Buying companies exist to provide companies with the contact details for targeted consumers, which can be sorted by a number of demographic criteria. Many firms also provide services to help clients set up and distribute direct mail campaigns. There are a number of companies listed here that provide direct marketing services designed to help you increase business and acquire new customers.