The need for face-to-face (f2f) interaction has never been more important.
The popularity of communicating virtually — using email, instant messaging, LinkedIn, Twitter, and the like, has had a significant impact on the speed at which information can be obtained. But, virtual communication has also led some marketers to ignore the role face-to-face (F2F) communications can play in building a brand.
Ignoring Face-to-face is a huge mistake!
The reality is that both face-to-face and virtual marketing are essential components to any company’s communications strategy.
According to a report from Meeting Professionals International (MPI), 40% of prospects converted to new customers via face-to-face meetings, and 28% of current business would be lost without them.
Whether considering a tradeshow, proprietary event, or a tour, face-to-face interactions provide significant business benefits. At its core, face-to-face engagement creates a personal connection and builds trust between a company and its target audience.
Face to face marketing still matters: no tweet, snap, or chat can ever replace real human connection.
F2F marketing is all about visibility and trust.
Countless studies have shown the resilience of F2F marketing in the digital age. Here’s a snapshot of some of the key findings over the past decade supporting in-person marketing.
- Personality
You can better convey the personality of your company culture while connecting better with the client through developing a personal relationship.
- Builds trust between the company and its customers
Interacting in person is one of the strongest factors when it comes to building trust in any relationship, especially in business. This diminishes hesitation in choosing to invest in your company, product or service.
- Builds visibility
Consumers may not have ever experienced a brand like yours before. Though they may not purchase your product or service when they experience your exhibit/event, you now become a face they have met and connected with in person and will be the first brand they go to when needing a product/service in your field.
- Avoiding misunderstandings
With so many products, services, reviews, opinions, and advertising that exist today, it’s not guaranteed a consumer will take the time to research your product. Marketing f2f with consumers allows you to have a conversation about the product, giving you a chance to both explain the product and answer any questions that may arise giving the consumer reliable information directly from the source.
- Companies can give their consumers a taste of what they’re all about
Any preconceived notions that a potential customer has, can be eliminated by allowing them to test the product or service, thus getting them to a “yes” much quicker.
- Companies save valuable time and money
With the continuous costs that come with print and internet marketing, f2f marketing is a great way to make a first impression with a person more efficiently for a one-time cost.
- Companies have the chance to express a grateful attitude towards customers
Going above and beyond to show your customers you are thankful for their business goes a long way. When someone’s decision feels valued, they find trust and confidence in the fact that they’d made that decision in the first place, and will continue to support that decision, in turn continuously supporting your company.
- Stimulates positive “word of mouth”
As the saying goes, “any publicity is good publicity.” If you create an interesting and exciting f2f marketing opportunity, people will want to talk about their experience. Make it fun and exciting, and something worth sharing on social media! Buzz is enough to get people wondering who you are and what you do.
Be sure to make face to face marketing opportunities an essential part of your suite of “calls to action” – it will pay dividends, guaranteed.
