Marketing in the modern world is an interesting concept. To some, it seems like such a simple and even unnecessary thing to be spending money on. To others, it is literally their entire career and what they put hours into. While creative marketing seems so easy at first glance, it actually plays a much larger role in our businesses, lives, and everyday routines.
Marketing Myths
First, let’s debunk some of the most common misconceptions about what marketing is. According to Forbes, the number one myth most people believe about marketing is that it is just “advertising and PR.” While advertising and PR are part of marketing, that is just the tip of the iceberg. Additionally, marketing is often seen as an afterthought, an extra part of the business that will help boost the business of the budget allows or if the company gets around to it. However, the most intriguing part about marketing is that it should actually be seen as a necessity. You might have a great product, but without marketing, that’s all it is: a great product sitting in your inventory. This is why creative marketing has taken off. It not only helps avoid common marketing myths but also takes the eyes away from the mundane attitude of marketing and intrigues the audience, taking your business to a whole new level.
Creative Marketing in Business
So, what are these creative marketing tactics that can prove my business needs marketing? While marketing still has a long way to go in the ever-changing, fast-paced world, here are a few examples that might be the difference between your product sitting in inventory and sitting in your customers’ hands.
Physical Environment
In a digitally sound society, we often overlook the physical environment. While digitally marketing is extremely important, the cues you create in the physical environment are just as crucial. Physical environment cues can look like packaging, ambiance, cards, etc. For example, think about your favorite products you received in the mail. The way they were packaged, or had a handwritten letter accompanying them, is what made all the difference in your love for the product. If you are a service-based business, physical cues can look like the lighting you have in your studio or the music you play. Even the smell can make a difference.
Internal Culture, External Presence
Creative marketing in the way you do business can be so simple that it may not even seem like marketing at first glance. Take the culture you create, for example. How do you talk to your coworkers and treat your employees? Is it in a way that makes your employees want to talk about work and even brag about it? Or does it have them wanting to quit but just staying for the sake of getting by? When your internal actions reflect your external message, people notice. Word of mouth is one of the most powerful marketing tools. People don’t remember what you say as much as how you make them feel and the consistency in your words and actions.
Creative Marketing In Your Personal Life
Maybe your business is booming. But, how is your personal marketing going? Is it getting you where you want to go? Or do you need a creative marketing boost to help develop as a personal brand?
Casual Lasting Impressions
Perhaps one of the most intriguing pieces of advice our intern was given in her undergrad was to “sit by the most successful person in the room.” At first, you might be taken aback by this advice, like our intern was. But it’s creative and it works. It is not a matter of sucking up to the most successful person. It’s “success by association.” Imagine you are in a meeting with Bill Gates. If you sit next to him, even if you do not say a word to him, the boss will be looking at him, and by association, will be looking at you. You will become a familiar face, someone who seems like they are successful. And hey, you probably are successful, but if not to the extent you want, you know what they say! Fake it ‘til you make it.
Networking
Bouncing off the last point, networking, networking, networking. You might be thinking, well, duh. But, how are you networking? Do you have a default response to what you do, value, and take pride in? Try a less rehearsed, robot-like response. Get creative. Additionally, the little things speak loudly. How do you sign an email, greet people, and carry yourself? Be intentional, but not curated. It is all about balance.
Intrigued in Learning More About Marketing Yourself and Your Brand?
You are in luck! At Fix & Form, we are excited to hear from you and discover how we can collaborate to create something amazing together. Additionally, coming later this month, we are announcing a special campaign where you can gain expertise from our founder herself in a creative way. Check out our case studies, schedule an appointment, or send us a message to connect!
