CAT | Idea Corner
A very useful tool for any writer is a swipe file, a place to collect examples of effective writing that comes to your attention. A swipe file can contain anything you want it to – headlines; introductory paragraphs, body copy, guarantees, interesting phrases or slogans, display ads, direct mail marketing pieces, e-mail messages, graphics, photos – anything that might serve as a future idea starter. It is a good idea to organize your swipe file into subsections to make searching for ideas easier, and to base it on hard copy rather than digital files.
Look for material for your swipe file in anything you come across that is sales-related. Instead of tossing direct mail marketing pieces unopened, take a look and see if thereĆs anything suitable for your swipe file. Likewise for e-mail advertising messages. The more you view and collect, the more useful your swipe file will become.
Do keep in mind that the purpose of a swipe file is to generate ideas, not to plagiarize. Your goal is to adapt the information in your swipe file to your own needs, not to copy it outright.
Share on Facebookgraphic design · graphic identity · logo · marketing · root creative group · target audience
An outgrowth of the capabilities of variable data printing is personalized URLs (PURLs) on direct mail marketing pieces. A PURL is the web address of a landing page that is unique to the individual recipient of the marketing piece. A PURL combines a response device with a web site.
When a recipient goes to the PURL landing page, the response device is immediately filled with the recipient’s contact information (such as name, address, telephone, e-mail). With the click of the mouse, the recipient can request information or take advantage of the offer. And as soon as that happens, the PURL generates an e-mail message that is essentially a sales lead. The novelty of the PURL, combined with the ease of responding, is said to increase response rate.
Some applications for PURLs include requesting a free sample, information, or trial; to take advantage of an offer or a discount; to RSVP or register for an event; and to complete a survey.
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