Do You Want More Effective Marketing? Here’s How to Find the Right Channel
Want to grow your brand faster and more efficiently? Understanding the 19 marketing channels is essential. Every successful marketing strategy fits into one (or more) of these channels. If you aren’t exploring multiple channels, you’re missing out on opportunities to scale.
1. Viral Marketing
Encourage users to share your product. Think of Dropbox’s referral program—users got extra storage for inviting friends. If your product has built-in sharing incentives, you can achieve exponential growth.
2. Public Relations (PR)
Getting featured in the media builds credibility and awareness. Take Apple—every product launch is covered extensively by the press without them paying for ads.
3. Unconventional PR
This involves stunts that grab attention. Remember when Red Bull sponsored Felix Baumgartner’s space jump? That event generated global coverage without traditional advertising.
4. Search Engine Marketing (SEM)
Pay to show up when users search for relevant terms. A fitness app running Google Ads on “best weight loss programs” reaches users with high intent.
5. Display Ads
These are social media ads, banners, and YouTube promotions. A direct-to-consumer skincare brand using Instagram and TikTok ads is a great example.
6. Email Marketing
Build relationships and nurture leads. Morning Brew grew its subscriber base by sending engaging, informative newsletters that people actually wanted to read.
7. Offline Ads
Billboards, TV, radio, and print ads still work. A startup targeting tech professionals advertising on billboards near Silicon Valley highways gained massive traction.
8. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Drive organic traffic by ranking high on Google. NerdWallet dominates personal finance searches with its well-optimized content strategy.
9. Content Marketing
Create valuable content to attract customers. HubSpot provides free educational blog posts and guides, drawing potential customers into their ecosystem.
10. Engineering as Marketing
Build free tools that provide value while subtly promoting your brand. Canva’s free design tools attract millions of users who eventually upgrade to premium features.
11. Guest Posting
Writing for industry sites increases credibility and backlinks. A cybersecurity expert contributing to Forbes establishes authority while driving traffic to their company.
12. Business Development
Form partnerships for mutual benefit. Spotify’s partnership with Starbucks put the music service in front of millions of coffee shop visitors.
13. Sales
Direct outreach and lead conversion. SaaS companies often have dedicated sales teams offering demos and personalized consultations.
14. Affiliate Programs
Encourage others to sell your product for a commission. Amazon’s affiliate program is a major driver of their sales, with bloggers and influencers promoting products.
15. Leveraging Existing Platforms
Use established platforms to gain visibility. Selling on Amazon, Etsy, or the App Store instead of your own website can accelerate growth.
16. Trade Shows
Exhibiting at industry events builds relationships and generates leads. A cybersecurity firm attending Black Hat connects directly with decision-makers.
17. Offline Events
Meet potential customers in person. A craft beer brand hosting tasting events at local bars builds community and brand loyalty.
18. Speaking Engagements
Position yourself as an authority by speaking at industry conferences or hosting webinars. A personal finance coach sharing insights on TEDx attracts a wider audience.
19. Community Building
Foster loyalty and engagement. Peloton’s user community enhances customer retention through shared experiences and challenges.
Test, Measure, and Scale
Don’t dismiss a channel just because it seems old-fashioned. Test multiple channels, analyze results, and double down on what works for your business.