Advertising is typically a short-term strategy that is VERY expensive with unpredictable results.
Coupon Magazines are just one example of advertising. They attempt to get leads or calls with a money discount or offer for folks “in market.” Restaurants offer BOGO to entice giving them a try.
No story. No branding. Maybe one visual. Buyers are price-sensitive and typically not loyal, as they will just take the next coupon that comes along. This strategy may or may not work, and only as good as long as you keep it active.
- Trading dollars with an expectation of calls or visits (leads). You still must sell (or serve) well to complete the equation
- Typically one-time transactions with no loyalty and are VERY sensitive to price
- Even if this develops loyal customers (ie. Restaurants), they will “learn” to look for coupons cutting into your profit
“Half the money I spend on advertising is wasted; the trouble is I don’t know which half.”
This famous quote from successful US merchant and forefather of marketing, John Wanamaker, was uttered over 100 years ago. Sadly for many companies, this is still the case.
Branded Content or Content Marketing (Sponsorships)
On the other hand, a Branded Content Strategy is designed to showcase your expertise and passion, humanizing you and your business and endearing you to our community via storytelling.
The goal is to increase visibility, trust, and reputation LONG-TERM!
One example – You can leverage a QUALITY local publication ie. First Coast Life and manage the message. Unlike a traditional news/media company, you’re in control!
- Reveals WHO you are, your background, passions, dreams, community involvement, the people you serve, WHY you started this business etc.
- Get to know you BETTER for new AND old customers (like cliff notes of your book)
- A branding approach for community to know, like and trust you and accelerate building a base of loyal customers
- Value selling through storytelling approach building a deeper connection and long-term RELATIONSHIP
Quality Visual Content …
… is where the world lives right now, and a key part of a branded content strategy. This should be your Core Focus to build high-quality visual assets to support your story and general messaging …
90%-90%-90%. “We’re generating more data than ever, that data is overwhelmingly visual, and most of us don’t know how to use images. No matter what business you’re in, the future of your business is visual. To keep your business growing, you’re going to have to get better at using pictures.”
Dan Rohm – Draw To Win
LET’S PUT YOU ON A COVER
… We take all kinda pills that give us all kinda thrills
Dr. Hook song The Cover of “Rolling Stone”
But the thrill we’ve never known
Is the thrill that’ll getcha
When you get your picture on the cover of the rolling stone
Create a permanent footprint on our site with a sponsored post highlighting your products or services. All posts include SEO optimization and are shared across all of our social media channels. Plus we provide professional photography to capture those perfect images that separate you from the others.
And you get personal attention for your ongoing marketing needs. Yes, we have experienced staff (photographers, marketing strategists, social media planners, graphics designers, etc.) to guide you to your goals along your marketing journey.
Interested in Putting Content Marketing to Work for You?
First Coast Life specializes in helping beach community businesses create Branded Content that grows their business.
If any of the above resonates with you can learn more about our service and price point here – https://firstcoast.life/sponsor/
- About the Author
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Glenn is the founder and publisher of First Coast Life. He is also a wonderful storyteller. Born on the 4th of July, he spends his spare time taking his camera and exploring everything beautiful this region offers with his rescue dog Callie by his side. He loves meeting new people and capturing the many beautiful moments and amazing local stories that showcase the true spirit of the area.
