(Akiit.com) When was the last time you held something in your hands that truly caught your attention? In a world overflowing with digital ads and endless scrolling, print offers a refreshing way to connect on a deeper level. But this isn’t about choosing one over the other—it’s about creating a dynamic duo.
Why Print Still Matters
Print materials offer a tangible, personal touch that digital simply can’t replicate. Whether it’s a beautifully designed brochure or a unique direct mail piece, print engages the senses in ways that screens can’t. Combining professional printing with digital enhances brand recall, boosts credibility, and gives your audience something physical to connect with—making your campaigns far more memorable.
Now, let’s dive into five ways to integrate print into your digital marketing strategy.
1. Use QR Codes to Bridge the Gap
QR codes are an easy way to connect print and digital marketing. They offer a seamless transition from a physical piece of content to an online experience.
How to Use Them
Add QR codes to flyers, brochures, or product packaging. Scanning the code can take users to a landing page, video, or even an exclusive discount.
Why It Works
QR codes encourage interaction while providing a clear way to track engagement metrics, giving you valuable insights into your audience’s behavior.
Ensure your QR codes are easy to scan and lead to mobile-optimized pages. A smooth user experience is crucial to building trust.
2. Direct Mail with a Digital Twist
Direct mail is far from dead—in fact, it’s thriving when paired with digital elements. A physical mailer can grab attention in a way emails often fail to do.
Make It Interactive
Include a personalized URL (PURL) or QR code on the mailer, directing recipients to a landing page or video. You can also add augmented reality (AR) features to make your mailer come alive when scanned with a smartphone.
Track the Results
By integrating tracking tools, you can measure how many recipients engage with your digital content after receiving the mailer.
Direct mail feels personal and can deliver a touch of nostalgia while offering a bridge to modern technology.
3. Bring Social Media to Life with Print
Social media is all about visuals and engagement, and print can complement your online presence in fun and creative ways.
Create Branded Merchandise
Think stickers, posters, or postcards featuring your social media handles and hashtags. Distribute these at events or send them to loyal customers.
Print and Share User-Generated Content
If your followers share photos or reviews of your brand, turn those into printed materials for marketing. Not only does this highlight your customers, but it also strengthens your relationship with them.
These tactics help turn online engagement into offline connections while promoting your digital platforms.
4. Use Print to Highlight Exclusive Digital Content
Nothing sparks curiosity like exclusivity. Use print materials to give your audience access to something they can’t get anywhere else.
Promote Hidden Content
Send out physical invites with QR codes or links to private webinars, exclusive videos, or VIP sales.
Build Anticipation
Tease a new product launch with a printed countdown calendar or puzzle that leads customers to your digital reveal.
By using print to unlock something exciting online, you build anticipation and increase engagement with your digital content.
5. Leverage Print at Events
Events provide an excellent opportunity to blend print and digital marketing. The right print materials can leave a lasting impression and drive attendees to your digital channels.
- Distribute Eye-Catching Collateral – Hand out brochures or booklets with QR codes linking to your website or social media.
- Gamify with Print – Create printed scavenger hunts or challenges that encourage attendees to interact with your brand online.
- Follow Up Digitally – Include details in your printed materials about how attendees can sign up for your email list or follow you on social platforms after the event.
This combination ensures your brand stays top of mind long after the event is over.
Tips for Making It All Work
To successfully blend print with digital marketing, focus on cohesion and quality. Ensure that your branding is consistent across both platforms—colors, logos, and messaging should match seamlessly. Test everything before launching campaigns to ensure QR codes, links, and other interactive elements work as intended.
The Takeaway
Incorporating print into your digital marketing strategy isn’t just about being creative; it’s about finding new ways to connect with your audience. Print materials add a personal, memorable touch to your campaigns and create bridges to your online content. When used thoughtfully, this blend of old and new techniques can elevate your brand and leave a lasting impact.
Start experimenting with these strategies, and you’ll find that the power of print in digital marketing is far from over—it’s just getting started.
Staff Writer; Stella Jackson