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So, you've tried pay-per-click (PPC) search, co-registration and banner ads. You even tried sweepstakes offers. But you want to deploy a new, proven and creative lead generation tactic.
Have you thought about online polls or surveys?
This is a great way to build your list and qualify potential prospects for cross-sell or upsell opportunities (either immediately after taking the poll or later on). Your poll could be used on your own website, as well as on external websites or blogs.
First, it's important to pick a question or topic that is timely, something that is in current events and that most Americans would be interested in ... perhaps even slightly controversial. Now, develop your question. The question should provoke thought and prompt response. This will be the headline on your creative (whether it's a banner or text ad).
Second, think of your answer choices. You can certainly do a simple yes/no question, but I'd recommend a variety of answer options that makes the prospect think and involves them in the question. It's also helpful to include an "other comments" box. You'll be surprised at how many people want to give you their two cents—this element really makes the poll participatory.
Third, make sure you let prospects know that you will not sell or rent their e-mail names. People hate spam, and you want to clarify that their e-mail addresses will not be compromised. You should also advise prospects that, by taking the poll, they will be opted in to your free newsletter (if you have one), which they can opt out of at any time, and that they will be notified via e-mail of the poll results. Also, offer them a free whitepaper, bonus report or article—with relevant subject matter related to the poll—as a token of appreciation for taking the poll. Follow up with a "welcome message" and introductory e-mail series to start the bonding efforts immediately.
Fourth, think of a good graphic that encapsulates and complements your headline. Something visually powerful. Notable personalities or images that convey emotions work best (greed, fear, love, hate, vanity, etc.).
Fifth, have a clear call to action in your creative, such as "sound off now" or "take action now." Get people excited about the poll they are about to take. Your creative can be a banner ad, text ad, e-newsletter sponsorship or a dedicated e-mail. Some formats may work better than others, so test them all in low-cost platforms like targeted blogs (blogads.com is a great network of blogs that supports cost-effective advertising).
Have you thought about online polls or surveys?
This is a great way to build your list and qualify potential prospects for cross-sell or upsell opportunities (either immediately after taking the poll or later on). Your poll could be used on your own website, as well as on external websites or blogs.
First, it's important to pick a question or topic that is timely, something that is in current events and that most Americans would be interested in ... perhaps even slightly controversial. Now, develop your question. The question should provoke thought and prompt response. This will be the headline on your creative (whether it's a banner or text ad).
Second, think of your answer choices. You can certainly do a simple yes/no question, but I'd recommend a variety of answer options that makes the prospect think and involves them in the question. It's also helpful to include an "other comments" box. You'll be surprised at how many people want to give you their two cents—this element really makes the poll participatory.
Third, make sure you let prospects know that you will not sell or rent their e-mail names. People hate spam, and you want to clarify that their e-mail addresses will not be compromised. You should also advise prospects that, by taking the poll, they will be opted in to your free newsletter (if you have one), which they can opt out of at any time, and that they will be notified via e-mail of the poll results. Also, offer them a free whitepaper, bonus report or article—with relevant subject matter related to the poll—as a token of appreciation for taking the poll. Follow up with a "welcome message" and introductory e-mail series to start the bonding efforts immediately.
Fourth, think of a good graphic that encapsulates and complements your headline. Something visually powerful. Notable personalities or images that convey emotions work best (greed, fear, love, hate, vanity, etc.).
Fifth, have a clear call to action in your creative, such as "sound off now" or "take action now." Get people excited about the poll they are about to take. Your creative can be a banner ad, text ad, e-newsletter sponsorship or a dedicated e-mail. Some formats may work better than others, so test them all in low-cost platforms like targeted blogs (blogads.com is a great network of blogs that supports cost-effective advertising).
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