We’ve all seen the news stories of the people lined up for hours outside retail stores waiting for a shot at the limited supply hot holiday toy or the mass of people ready to grab up all the holiday season sale goods that they can cram into the nearest shopping cart.
In fact, at some point or another, we’ve each probably contributed to the crazed rush of humanity that gets up before the crack of dawn to be at our favorite retailer right when they open on sale day. You may have even drug a sleeping bag and lawn chair out of your trunk to reserve your spot in line the night before a grand opening, product launch or super sale.
Well, this year, I suggest that you arm yourself with some warm coffee, doughnuts, a friendly attitude and a stack of business cards and take advantage of the incredible opportunity that is presenting itself. As an independent mortgage originator (or any anyone else hoping to gain some low cost exposure) looking to stand out in today’s crowded marketplace, I can’t think of a better way to make a lasting impression than to brighten the spirits of the weary on a cold dark night. I can guarantee that if you show up around 2 am with warm coffee and free food, those standing in line will welcome you with open arms.
I personally favor the low key approach. Just pour the free coffee, pass around a couple boxes of doughnuts, and mingle with the line. As you pass out the goods, toss in a “compliments of XYZ Mortgage Company” here and there. While everyone is enjoying the caffeinated sugar rush that you just delivered, chat up the line casually mention that if they need any mortgage advice to give you a ring and hand them a card or some other type of takeaway. When you find someone who has more than an average amount of questions for you, don’t be afraid to ask for their phone number. Let them you that you would like to call them later and schedule a time to talk about their situation.
use your imagination when it comes to keeping the crowd entertained. A few quick ideas off the top of my head include:
* Bring a projector and show a movie on the side of a camper or building
* Give out hand warmers
* Make a “dollar menu” fast food run and take orders from the whole line
* Give out decks of cards with your information on them
I’m sure you’ve come up with an idea or two yourself in the short time that it has taken you to read my ideas!
Be sure not to go overboard and annoy the crowd. Some people may want to just be left alone so that they can suffer through the night in solitude. Why they would want to do this, who knows. Just respect their rights as well if for nothing else to help ensure that your interactions with the rest of the line aren’t tainted by a disgruntled deal seeker.
Also, use your best judgment to avoid any unpleasant situations with retailers whose property you will most likely be on. In fact, you may even try contacting the store manager before you go after their line of customers and see if you can do anything to assist them or to make their job of dealing with the cold, tired, and hopefully enthusiastic shoppers easier. Most importantly, have fun with it and just meet some new people.
Remember, the plan doesn’t need to be fancy, just get out there and do something!
If you haven’t done so already, sign up now for our free Mortgage Marketing Ideas newsletter. Sign Up Here
Technorati Tags: mortgage marketing, marketing, holiday marketing, loan officer, mortgage broker, loan originator
Tags: Mortgage Marketing Ideas
