The written word can skillfully describe who you are and what you do, but the old stand-by “a picture is worth a thousand words” may be more impactful. How else can we explain the growing popularity of infographics and Instagram, the viral sensation of memes, why photos get more likes than any other type of post on Facebook and how Pinterest is driving more referrals than Google+, YouTube and LinkedIn combined?  Further proof: on September 19^th Twitter introduced the header image feature (similar to Facebook’s cover photo) to allow users to showcase more visuals in their profiles. With all these trends leading to a more picture friendly social sphere, there’s no doubt that you should be incorporating visual marketing into your overall strategy.

We know what you’re thinking: what is the best way to incorporate visuals into your marketing? The first step is to increase and update the visuals in your current marketing materials. For instance, update your Facebook cover photo to reflect the season or to highlight a recent project. Next, consider trying something new. Use Instagram to share pictures of your products and employees. Better yet, invite your followers to post creative images of themselves with your products. Pinterest is another great social media option where you can share gorgeous images of your products and drive traffic back to your website.

Finally, have some fun with visual marketing. The holidays are coming; ‘tis the season to reach out to your clients with personalized e-cards. While cards for the winter holidays are a must, you can stand out from the crowd by sending a spook-tacular Halloween card as well! Holiday cards help your clients relate to you on a personal level. It is a chance to update them on what is going on in the company, as well as to wish them season’s greetings. Think of the warm, cheery feeling you get when you receive a holiday card from a friend who has moved away. This is the kind of feeling that you’ll invoke in your clients when they open a personalized creative holiday e-card from your company.

Here are some tips for a successful holiday e-card.

	1. Show Your Sensitive SideRemember to be sensitive to cultures and religions. For example, in the winter months it is best to send a “Happy Holidays” or “Season’s Greetings” card, rather than to focus on one specific holiday.
	2. Plan AheadStart early especially if you are hiring your marketing or graphic design firm. We know that we get increasingly busy around the holidays, and we’re sure you experience the same holiday rush!
	3. Tie It TogetherIf your planning an eblast be sure to also post a copy of the holiday greeting in you social media and on your website. This will increase your reach and the joy for your clients.

If you need help with a creative ideas for your business this holiday schedule a free consultation. And don’t forget to keep a look-out for the continuation of our Visual Marketing blog series! Next: Pinterest!