Transform Transform May 2014 | Page 8

Rules of Postcard Marketing If you have been in the real estate industry for a number of years, you have likely encountered postcard marketing one way or another. Though they lack the dynamism of social networks or roadside billboards, postcards are an effective marketing tool for successful realtors. Important factors about postcards is that production and distribution is rather easy, they are quite affordable and there is no need to be a marketing genius to create them! Realtors use postcard marketing for different reasons including versatility, cost effectiveness and simplicity. Effective postcards can help create a steady and increased flow of business. Below are some guidelines to ensure your postcards generate positive results. 8 Measure the Outcome It is necessary to measure “instant” and “over time” results of your postcard campaign. After a couple of days, some people may respond upon receiving a postcard. You may get requests for more information, e-mails or website registrations based on the action requested. You never know, a personal acknowledgement may come your way or a request to talk about buying or selling. Since postcards may generate initial appointments, sales and listings months after being mailed, be sure to record results. Each week track your sales, listings and initial appointments on a spreadsheet. Write down which postcard generated positive results and the elements that made it successful. Don’t forget to assess your return on investment (ROI). Don’t be surprised if you find out that postcard campaigns return at least 4 times the cost. Uphold Consistency in Branding and Frequency The main objective of marketing is to grow a powerful brand by creating awareness. This implies that each time your targeted audience thinks of real estate, your name comes to mind. When this happens, it clearly indicates that the targeted market associates your brand with victorious real estate dealings. Successful postcard frequency means mailing nine to twelve times annually to a higher-value market and four to twelve times annually to additional targeted markets.