Who doesn’t love getting things for free? But when brands give out freebies, they’re rarely actually free for the brand. So how do you make sure you’re getting a return on investment if you’re not getting paid? We’ve compiled a list of tips for how to do freebies right.
Give Away Something of Actual Value
Chances are that people won’t remember you if you give them a free pen with your company’s name on it. But if you host a raffle for product samples or for a free hour of your services? That’s a different story. Potential customers are more likely to become customers when they’ve received a taste of what they’re missing.
Add Urgency to Your Offer
People respond best to freebies that are only available for a limited time or to select people. Otherwise, you risk “I can always do it later” syndrome, which will cause your brand to fall off the potential customer’s radar.
Be Helpful
If you’re going to give out swag, consider making it something that doesn’t just reflect your brand but also makes your customers’ lives easier, whether it’s planners for busy adults or coloring pages to distract their kids.
Analyze the Competition
Make sure you stay on top of what others in your industry are offering — when it comes to freebies, the key is not to keep up but to stand out. So make sure that your freebie offer reflects only your brand as opposed to your industry as a whole.
Give the Gift of Knowledge
Sometimes, freebies aren’t even a matter of upfront investment — sometimes it’s as simple as performing a public service that also happens to benefit you. For example, if you own a business (or market a destination) adjacent to a national park, how about letting people know that fourth-graders and their families can get a free pass from the National Park Service? Take it from this fourth-grade mom: it’s a little-known fact that will make people more likely to travel — and visit other local attractions and businesses too.
Need more ideas on how to create a successful marketing campaign for your brand? The experts at TMCC can help! Contact us at newbusiness@todaymediacustom.com.
