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Marketing Weapons -- Cause-related / Social Marketing
Cause-Related and Social marketing is a form of sponsorship.
Cause related marketing gained notoriety in the early 1980’s when American
Express raised money for the restoration of the statue of liberty. American
Express donated a penny to the cause each time its credit card was used. As a
result, American Express saw an increase in the usage of their credit cards, and
in their membership numbers.
Companies gain an image of social conscientious ness, and
build a trust base with consumers. Recent surveys completed in the UK indicate
that 81% of consumers polled agree that when price and quality are equal, they
are more likely to buy a product associated with a cause, 86% of consumers agree
that they have a more positive image of the company if they see it doing
something positive
Cause and Social Marketing is a good way to help the local
community. However, before you get started make sure that there is a Quid Pro
Quo.
Remember that what you do is business; make sure that you get something
out of it. In addition, research any group that you get involved with, make sure
that their goals and morals line up with yours.
There is a couple of way to do cause related marketing.
- Offer $1.00 of every sale as a donation to a local
charity. You could donate pieces for a charity auction. You could simply help
with some local functions.
- Help the local School Band, little league team, Pop Warner
cheerleaders go on that trip to Disney-world. Maybe you could get them to
wear a tee shirt, or button with your name on it while they do any other
fundraisers
- Do a voter-registration drive, picnic, 4th of July
Dance. Just try to get them to put a banner with your company name on it.
Whatever
you do, make it clear to the group that sponsorships are a two-way street and
that you expect something in return.
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