Just like the teams “making it to the dance” in the 2016 college basketball tournament, email marketing is all about strategy. Many advertisers are looking to turn the college championship tourney into a marketing spin by offering up special promotions or offers relating to March Madness. Whether you’re a fan of basketball or just looking to do some “spring cleaning” of your bank account by spending that tax refund check early, now is a great time to be on the lookout for March Madness deals.
Below are some tips on how marketers can make a slam dunk of their email campaigns this season.
Create a Bracket Contest
Everyone loves a deal right? Why not play on consumer’s excitement around the tournament? Creating a promotion with an incentive relating to the basketball brackets – say a $100 gift card good to use on your product/service/website – without requiring a purchase is a great way to get consumers to engage. Make sure to include a strong call-to-action with basketball related imagery.
Play Up Rivalries
Assessing the competitive landscape is something marketers do when creating strategic media plans, yearly budgets and launching new products. However at a time when political and sports rivalries are at its peak, why not put more emphasis on your unique value proposition? This will help differentiate your product among your competitors. Think of it like the Pepsi challenge! There’s nothing better than a little friendly competition (or not so friendly when it comes to sports!).
Use Buzz Words
March Madness, Sweet Sixteen, Elite 8, Final Four – these terms are being used in marketing materials across almost every vertical. Be your brand’s biggest fan and cheerleader by creating ads that trigger emotional reactions. Consumers respond and engage best when passion is ignited. Be sure your timing is right and that you don’t attempt any 3 pointers with a hand in your face. As each team advances, mix up your marketing message accordingly.
Nearly 11 million consumers tune in and are watching college basketball March Madness games – with over 23 million viewers tuning into the big championship. Consider the potential reach of your marketing campaigns! The tourney begins tonight, how many upsets do you predict in the first round?
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BMI Elite’s targeted email marketing and data solutions can help you win your own championship title with strategic ads designed for results worthy of a trophy! Call 561-330-6666 ext. 305 or email us to get started on your March Madness marketing campaigns today!
