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Marketing Communication In 2024: (What Works, And What Doesn’t.)

Marketing Communication In 2024: (What Works, And What Doesn’t.)

by | May 24, 2024 | General

cody headshot threshold marketing blog

Cody Rudolph

 

 

 

 

Effective communication has always been the cornerstone of successful marketing. 

Nothing’s changed in 2024.

But many businesses still struggle with overly salesy copy and technical jargon that confuses potential clients. Or they use vague, “fancy pants” verbiage in an effort to sound clever. 

This article will provide clear, actionable advice on how companies can communicate effectively—and in a way that attracts clients, partnerships, and even envy from your competitors.

dangers of “salesy” copy and “fancy” words.

Imagine a scene from your favorite courtroom drama.

The “lawyers” speak to each other at a frantic pace, pausing every few seconds to toss in silly legal jargon that makes no sense to most of the viewers.  Now, this manner of speaking is part of the appeal of tv shows–the lawyers are supposed to know things the viewers don’t and appear more intelligent as a result.

But what if you were a juror in a real courtroom, listening to a real lawyer speak to the judge in the same way? You’d feel confused, alienated, maybe even embarrassed. Naive. These are the same negative emotions your clients and partners feel when they don’t understand your offer, your brand values, or the words you use.

Thankfully, there are ways for companies to avoid these pitfalls. Here’s how.

simplify and humanize your message.

Fun fact: 74% of adults in the US read at a 6th grade level. (Source.)

That means there are roughly 224 million people in the US that don’t know what “pro forma” or “TBD by EOD” means. 

Consider the words used during a conversation with a stranger at the supermarket. Or how you’d explain a mortgage loan to a teenager. How we talk in everyday life is more-or-less how companies should communicate in their marketing.

There are outliers, of course. For example, you wouldn’t want to send company shareholders an email that starts with “Hey fam!” But the goal is to use a common language that broadens your reach.

Here are three practical tips for simplifying your copy:

  1. Use short sentences and familiar words.
  2. Break down complex ideas into digestible parts.
  3. Avoid industry-specific terms unless they are universally understood by your audience.

Example: Instead of saying, “Our comprehensive asset management solutions are designed to optimize your property portfolio’s performance,” say, “We help you manage your properties better, saving you time and money.”

build trust through transparency and value.

It’s crucial to build trust and demonstrate the value your business brings to current clients, prospects and partners. 

Here are some strategies:

  1. Transparency: Be open about your processes, pricing, and results. People appreciate honesty and are more likely to work with a company that is upfront about what they can expect.

Example: Offer a clear breakdown of your services and costs, along with case studies that showcase your successes.

  1. Value Proposition: Be clear about the benefits of working with your company and how your services solve specific problems.

Example: Instead of saying, “We’re your premiere partner for growth capital acquisition,” say, “We find the money your business needs to keep growing.”

provide clear directions.

Finally, to drive action, make it very clear what you want people to do and encourage them to do it. How? Provide a clear offer, compelling calls to action (CTAs) and make the next steps straightforward.

here’s an example of providing clear directions for a newsletter sign up page and follow-up email sequence:

  • Offer: “Weekly newsletter with case studies, industry insights, and emerging trends. Sent to your inbox every Monday morning.”
  • CTA: “Sign up for our newsletter.”
  • Thank-You Page: “Thank you for signing up to our newsletter. You’ll soon receive a Welcome email guiding you through next steps and what you can expect in our weekly newsletter.”
  • Welcome Email: “Hello! Thanks again for signing up to receive our newsletter. It’ll hit your inbox every Monday morning! (Just in time for the day’s first coffee.) And comes packed full of useful information our team finds from across the web…”

See how each step of the process clearly communicates an offer, desired action, or next step in the process.

And if you think the copy sounds repetitive–you’re right. Clear messaging is repetitive by design.

That’s why there are road signs every few dozen yards along the highway. Because people need constant reminders about what we should be doing, where we’re headed, and what we can expect as we approach our destination.

conclusion: talk like you would to a stranger.

The nice thing about talking to strangers is that you don’t know what to expect. And because you don’t know what to expect, most people automatically revert to a simpler form of communication.

No lingo. No shared knowledge or experiences. No common phrases.

Instead, you have to explain who you are, the value you provide, what you want the other person to do, and walk them through the steps to get there—it’s the simplest, most straightforward kind of communication two adults can have.

And it’s a style of communication companies can adopt to speak more clearly, connect with a broader audience, and gain deeper trust with existing clients and partners.

Email Marketing Strategies: Maximizing Open Rates and Conversions

Email Marketing Strategies: Maximizing Open Rates and Conversions

by | May 16, 2024 | Culture, Digital Marketing, Financial Marketing, General, Marketing

ava headshot threshold agency blog marketing agency austin tx

Ava Page

 

Hey there, marketing enthusiasts! 🌟 Ready to boost your email marketing game? At Threshold, we believe in the power of a great email strategy to connect with your audience and drive results. With our new Marketing-as-a-Service (MaaS) offering, including top-tier email marketing, we’re here to help you shine.

know your audience.

First things first, you’ve got to know who you’re talking to. Your emails should feel like a conversation with a friend – someone who gets you and knows what you need. Start by segmenting your email list based on demographics, interests, and behavior. This allows you to send personalized content that resonates with your readers. Threshold’s MaaS helps you dive deep into audience insights, ensuring your emails always hit the mark.

 

craft compelling subject lines.

Your subject line is the first impression your email makes. It needs to be irresistible! Keep it short, sweet, and to the point. Use action words, ask intriguing questions, or create a sense of urgency to entice your readers to open your email. With Threshold’s expert copywriters on your side, your subject lines will consistently capture attention.

 

create engaging content.

Once your readers have opened your email, the next step is to keep them engaged. Your content should be valuable, relevant, and easy to read. Break up text with bullet points, images, and headers to make it visually appealing. And don’t forget to include a clear call-to-action (CTA). Threshold’s MaaS ensures your emails are packed with engaging, high-quality content that drives action.

 

optimize for mobile.

With more people checking emails on their phones, it’s crucial to ensure your emails look great on all devices. Use a responsive design that adapts to different screen sizes, and keep your text and images balanced so they’re easy to view on smaller screens. Our MaaS includes design optimization to make sure your emails are always mobile-friendly and visually stunning.

 

test, analyze, and improve.

A/B testing is your best friend when it comes to email marketing. Experiment with different subject lines, content formats, send times, and CTAs to see what works best for your audience. Track your email performance with analytics to understand what’s working and what’s not. Threshold’s MaaS provides comprehensive testing and analytics, helping you continuously refine your strategy for maximum impact.

 

to sum things up.

With these five strategies (and Threshold’s Marketing-as-a-Service, if you choose) at your fingertips, you’re set to maximize open rates and conversions like never before. Our team is dedicated to crafting email campaigns that not only stand out but also drive results. 

 

Ready to transform your email marketing? Let’s get those emails opened and those conversions rolling in! 🚀

Interested in taking this conversation further with a marketing expert? Reach out to our THeam today for all the answers you’re looking for.

Stay tuned for more tips and tricks from the Threshold THeam, and happy emailing! 📧✨

before you go.

For more tips and information about marketing your everything, take a look at the rest of our blogs, right here on our website! 

You can also subscribe to our email newsletter (it’s got some great stuff), and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

about the author.

Ava is the SEO & Paid Media Specialist at Threshold.

In her role, she is responsible for the content creation and management of all Threshold and PromoShak social channels, blog content, and SEO maintenance, and aids in internal and client-facing digital marketing strategies. 

When she’s not busy creating content, you can usually find her picking out new plants, island-hopping, watching Duke basketball, or spending time with her fur babies.

The Importance of Brand Identity: How To Craft a Resonant Brand Voice

The Importance of Brand Identity: How To Craft a Resonant Brand Voice

by | Apr 24, 2024 | Creative, Culture, Design, Digital Marketing, General, Marketing, Thought Leadership

 laura headshot blogLaura Robbins

In today’s dynamic marketplace, where consumers are bombarded with choices, establishing a distinct brand voice is paramount for standing out and building meaningful connections with your audience. Whether you’re a real estate property, a credit union, or a boutique hotel, a compelling brand identity weaves together words and emotions to convey a coherent and resonant message. 

Let’s explore the art of developing a voice that aligns with your brand’s identity and strikes a chord with your target audience.

 

understanding your brand’s identity.

Back up, back up, back up. Before you even begin to explore your brand’s voice, you first need to ensure you’ve established your brand’s identity. 

What values does your brand stand for? 

What sets it apart from competitors? 

What emotions do you want to evoke in your audience? 

By delving into these questions, you can uncover the essence of your brand and lay the foundation for developing a distinct voice that encapsulates its personality.

Take Threshold’s brand voice for instance. One of our corporate values is that we’re both professional and playful. That value is woven throughout our voice. We like to get the job done and do an amazing job at that, and we like to have a laugh or two along the way. A witty joke or pun is welcome – and oftentimes encouraged – in these parts. 

 

audience insight: listening to consumer needs.

Understanding your target audience is crucial for shaping your brand voice. Conduct thorough research to gain insights into your audience’s demographics, psychographics, and pain points. 

What language resonates with them? 

What tone elicits the desired emotional response? 

Go so far as crafting personas for your brand so you can better tailor your voice and messaging to your audience. Having this distinct persona will also allow you to quality-check your brand’s messaging as it gets put into use, ensuring what you’re saying is relevant to your target audience. 

 

maintaining your voice across touchpoints.

Remember that thing we said above, about quality-checking your brand voice? Yeah – it’s important. 

Consistency is the bedrock of a strong brand voice. Maintaining a unified voice across all marketing touchpoints reinforces your brand’s identity and fosters trust with your audience. Whether it’s your website copy, social media posts, or customer support interactions, ensure that your brand voice remains consistent in tone, style, and messaging to deepen relationships with your audience.

 

it’s ok to be flexible.

Yeah, ok, the odd rule is meant to be broken, is it not? While consistency is essential, it’s also important to recognize that the marketplace is constantly evolving, and consumer preferences may change over time. 

Your brand voice should be flexible enough to resonate with changing trends and audience dynamics. Continuously monitor feedback, stay attuned to cultural shifts, and be willing to adjust your brand voice accordingly to maintain relevance and resonance. 

Threshold did just that! We underwent a brand refresh in 2023 to better align our creative direction, messaging, and services to our clients and their needs. 

 

be yourself. 

Above all, authenticity is the core of a compelling brand voice. Consumers are attracted to brands that authentically express their values and beliefs. Be genuine, transparent, and true to your brand’s identity in every communication. Authenticity not only fosters deeper connections with your audience, but also builds loyalty and advocacy over time.

 

to sum it all up.

By understanding your brand’s identity, listening attentively to your audience, maintaining consistency, embracing flexibility, and embodying authenticity, you can elevate your brand above the noise and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Remember, the marriage of words and brand identity is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Let your brand voice be what captivates, inspires, and connects with your audience.

Now that you know how essential a brand voice is, let Threshold help you craft one! We use carefully curated data to deliver positioning and messaging full of strategic potential. Our experienced team weeds out stale approaches to deliver fresh perspectives and brand guidelines that empower future asset creation. And we’ll make you go wow in the process. Promise. 

Get in touch with us today! 

 

about the author.

Laura is the brand strategist here at Threshold (so when it comes to all things branding – take her word for it). She embodies all of the best part of what creative marketing is all about, bringing life to brands across the spectrum, and highlighting all of the best aspects that a company, property, business, or any other brand has to offer its consumers.

When she’s not bringing brands to life at Threshold, Laura loves spending time with her husband, son, friends, and family – and she’s even got a little one on the way! Whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones, traveling, trying new restaurants, or working on her novel (yep – she does it all), Laura is the definition of someone who lives to get all of the best things out of life, and we love her for it.

Navigating The Upcoming Change in Google Cookies

Navigating The Upcoming Change in Google Cookies

by | Apr 16, 2024 | Digital Marketing, General, Marketing, Tech/Web

ava headshot threshold agency blog marketing agency austin tx

Ava Page

 

 

When it comes to the world of digital marketing, change is not just inevitable – it’s the norm. At Threshold, we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve. That’s why we’re here to provide you with a deep dive into the upcoming changes to cookies, and how they’ll impact your business, your marketing, and your brand.

 

understanding cookies: pillars of personalized online experiences.

Cookies, those tiny digital crumbs, play a monumental role in shaping your online journey. But what exactly are cookies? Imagine them as digital footprints left behind as you navigate the vast landscape of the internet. They’re small pieces of data stored on your browser that help websites remember information about you. 

This can range from remembering your login details to tailoring product recommendations based on your browsing history. In essence, cookies are the cornerstone of delivering seamless and customized experiences to customers, especially in the retail sector.

 

Google’s bold move: unraveling the implications.

Google’s recent announcement about phasing out third-party cookies on Chrome has sent ripples through the digital marketing community. But why is this such a seismic shift? Well, probably because Google is the last major browser that allows third-party cookies by default, representing a whopping 60% of browser use.

So, why is Google making this change? The answer lies in the growing concerns surrounding user privacy and data protection. Third-party cookies have long been criticized for their invasive nature, tracking users across the web without their explicit consent. By phasing out these cookies, Google aims to enhance user privacy and security, aligning with evolving regulatory standards and consumer expectations.

While this move may seem daunting, it’s important to note that we’re not venturing into a cookieless world just yet. Third-party cookies remain integral for website functionality, particularly in the retail sector where targeted advertising is paramount.

Despite Google’s incremental steps, such as the testing of deprecating a small percentage of cookies since January 2024, there’s lingering uncertainty surrounding the feasibility of meeting the July 2024 deadline. The introduction of Google’s Privacy Sandbox initiative, featuring alternative methods like the Topics API and Fenced Frames, has sparked both curiosity and concern within the industry. These initiatives aim to provide advertisers with viable alternatives to third-party cookies while preserving user privacy and fostering a more transparent digital ecosystem.

 

addressing concerns and crafting a strategy.

In light of these changes, concerns have emerged from industry stakeholders, including the International Advertising Bureau (IAB) and the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). Questions regarding market dominance, fairness, and transparency loom large, prompting businesses to rethink their advertising strategies.

One significant challenge arising from the phasing out of third-party cookies is the potential gap in conversion tracking. Without the ability to track user behavior across websites using traditional cookie-based methods, businesses may face difficulties in accurately measuring the effectiveness of their marketing efforts and attributing conversions.

However, amidst these challenges lies an opportunity for growth and innovation. At Threshold, we’re committed to guiding you through this transition. Through proactive client education, meticulous risk assessment, and rigorous testing efforts, we’ll ensure you’re well-equipped to navigate the evolving digital landscape.

By fostering collaboration with our expert digital team and harnessing the power of first-party data strategies, we’ll help you adapt to the changing terrain while maintaining your competitive edge. Our approach includes leveraging alternative tracking methods, such as first-party cookies and server-side tracking, to close the gap in conversion tracking and provide valuable insights into your customers’ journey. With our tailored strategies and innovative solutions, you can continue to drive results and achieve your business objectives in a cookie-less world.

 

embracing opportunities.

As we bid farewell to third-party cookies, it’s time to explore new avenues for digital marketing. From real estate to financial institutions – and everywhere in between – we’re being presented with exciting opportunities, where strategies emphasizing brand awareness and contextual targeting are gaining momentum, offering a fresh perspective on consumer engagement.

While the road ahead may be uncertain, it’s also brimming with potential. By prioritizing consumer preferences, transparency, and resilience, we can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.

 

to sum things up.

Change is not just a challenge; it’s an invitation to evolve. Together, let’s embrace the cookie revolution and pave the way for a more consumer-centric and privacy-conscious digital future. At Threshold, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to take this conversation further with a marketing expert? Reach out to our THeam today for all the answers you’re looking for.

 

before you go.

For more tips and information about marketing your everything, take a look at the rest of our blogs, right here on our website! 

You can also subscribe to our email newsletter (it’s got some great stuff), and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

 

about the author.

Ava is the SEO & Paid Media Specialist at Threshold.

In her role, she is responsible for the content creation and management of all Threshold and PromoShak social channels, blog content, and SEO maintenance, and aids in internal and client-facing digital marketing strategies. 

When she’s not busy creating content, you can usually find her picking out new plants, island-hopping, watching Duke basketball, or spending time with her fur babies.

Driving Sustainable Growth: Harnessing the Power of Eco-Conscious Web Design

Driving Sustainable Growth: Harnessing the Power of Eco-Conscious Web Design

by | Apr 10, 2024 | General

michael headshot blog threshold marketing web design eco Michael Pratt

 

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, businesses are increasingly recognizing the profound impact of sustainability on their online success. Beyond mere aesthetics and functionality, sustainable web design stands as a beacon of eco-conscious innovation, promising not only higher site traffic and conversions but also a brighter, greener future. Let’s explore how prioritizing sustainability in web design can catalyze remarkable growth for businesses while championing environmental stewardship.

 

elevating user experience with sustainable practices.

Sustainability isn’t just about reducing carbon footprints; it’s about enhancing every aspect of the user journey. By embracing minimalist layouts, optimizing code for efficiency, and prioritizing renewable resources, sustainable web design fosters an immersive user experience that resonates deeply with eco-conscious consumers. When visitors encounter a website that reflects their values of sustainability, they’re not just browsing – they’re engaging with a brand that speaks their language.

 

climbing the ranks with eco-friendly optimization.

Search engines have become gatekeepers of the digital realm, and sustainability is increasingly becoming a key criterion for ranking. Websites that load quickly, adapt seamlessly across devices, and prioritize energy-efficient hosting solutions are rewarded with higher visibility in search engine results. Sustainable web design isn’t just about pleasing algorithms; it’s about forging a symbiotic relationship with the environment while ascending the ranks of digital prominence.

 

empowering mobile users through green innovation.

In a world where smartphones reign supreme, sustainable web design ensures that no user is left behind. By crafting mobile-responsive experiences that conserve resources and minimize energy consumption, businesses can empower users to engage with their brands anytime, anywhere. Sustainable web design isn’t just about adapting to mobile devices; it’s about empowering a mobile generation to make conscious choices that resonate with the planet.

 

reducing bounce rates with sustainable speed.

Every wasted second is a missed opportunity in the digital realm. Sustainable web design prioritizes speed, efficiency, and optimization to minimize bounce rates and maximize conversions. By streamlining navigation, compressing images, and leveraging caching techniques, businesses can create websites that load in the blink of an eye, captivating visitors and inspiring them to explore further.

 

cultivating a reputation rooted in sustainability.

In a world where brands are under constant scrutiny, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a badge of honor. By embracing sustainable web design, businesses signal their commitment to environmental stewardship, earning the trust and loyalty of eco-conscious consumers. A website that embodies sustainability isn’t just a digital storefront; it’s a testament to a brand’s values and a beacon of inspiration for a greener tomorrow.

 

to wrap things up.

In the quest for digital dominance, sustainability isn’t just an afterthought – it’s the cornerstone of long-term success. By embracing eco-conscious web design practices, businesses can drive higher site traffic, boost conversions, and forge deeper connections with consumers who share their commitment to the planet. In the digital frontier of tomorrow, sustainability isn’t just an option – it’s the path to prosperity and progress.

 

before you go.

For more tips and information about marketing your everything, take a look at the rest of our blogs, right here on our website! 

You can also subscribe to our email newsletter (it’s got some great stuff), and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

 

about the author.

Michael is the WordPress Designer and Developer here at Threshold.

As a seasoned UI/UX & Web Designer based in Chicago, Michael brings over six years of experience to Threshold’s creative team, creating top-notch web designs, applications, and user-friendly interfaces with marketing at the forefront.

His love for pushing boundaries and collaborating with others on new projects is matched only by his commitment to delivering outstanding work. He always takes a holistic approach to design, expertly weaving traditional techniques with the latest advancements to bring exceptional results to life.

When he’s not killing the creative game, here are some fun facts about how Michael enjoys his free time:

  1. I recently lived on the West Coast for 3 years and got to hike some of the most incredible mountains! Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens to name a few.
  2. I studied herbalism, ayurveda, and alternative healing. Paired with basic nutrition knowledge, I’ve been able to help friends and family live a better quality of life.
  3. I did an internship as a videographer with Creature Skateboards and got to meet several professional skateboarders, filming for promos and events.
  4. I have family located in Athens, Greece and it is one of my favorite places to visit!
  5. I recently started learning Judo martial arts and it is an exciting endeavor along with my many other fitness goals!