Advertising is an ever evolving activity. From clay tablets in the ancient Egypt to mobile ads in the modern era, advertising has traversed a long way. Experts in the field of advertising, at different times, suggested the companies to put up their ads in different media of advertising, like – radio, newspaper, television, or billboards. Of course, the ad strategy changed too with each advertising medium.

In a recent survey conducted by Regus, an outfit that provides flexible workplaces, it was revealed that 62% of the Indian companies are of the opinion that the good-old method of face-to-face communication is the best means to get new customers. Among the 612 business leaders in India who participated in the survey, 16, 000 were senior business managers.

59% of the Indian companies said that online advertising is the best form of advertising in today’s world. 61% of them also highlighted the growing importance of interacting through a number of social media.

62% of the companies said that in the next 2 to 3 years face-to face communication will work best for an increased customer base. Trade shows, and public speaking at key events will be a great way to communicate with the customers directly.

There are a number of beneficial factors when companies talk face to face with the customers. Here are a few pointers on the same:

·  Face-to-face communication is personal

Customers want a personal touch. They do not want to be a part of the mass. They prefer to be spoken to directly, so that they can also clarify certain doubts about the product or service. Naturally, this creates a stronger impact as the customers feel a sense of assuredness directly by the person in concern.

·  Customised products and services for each customer

Customization is the need of the hour. Everyone wants things their way. It is no more a time when one size fits all. Today, every customer has a different taste and needs what suits them, and since they can pay for it why not get it their way?

·  A better understanding of customer needs

A direct interaction with the customers also gives the companies a better understanding of their needs and demands.  Thus, they can provide better products and services to the customers and provide customer satisfaction.

·  Reaching the customers

Ads on television, newspapers, radio, or billboards have a huge chance of your customers not taking notice. No medium can guarantee a 100% customer attention for any ads. The customers are now bombarded with ads; they often turn channels of television during breaks, or turn away pages of newspaper from the ad.

Video SMS for face-to-face communication

Since a majority of companies feel that face-to-face communication is most important, videoSMS can be used to reach the customers. A free service, offered by some sites, video SMS is the easiest way to communicate in a more effective way with customers. Of course customers can reply back if they have any doubt. This can prove to be a very strong means of communicate in the coming years.