Your Questions About Direct Marketing Association
Lisa asks…
How do I stop junk mail from coming to my home through the Direct Marketing Association?
I’ve heard of paying $1 to have your name removed from the list, and was wondering if anyone has done this personally and if it is worth it (I know it’s only a buck but there are multiple people in my household that receive junk mail and that adds up). I also thought about just reporting my own death to the agency, along with the other members of my household. I don’t know the legality of that though. Seems like it’s only an issue if you’re trying to collect insurance or lying to the government.
Jere answers:
I wasn’t aware they now charge for this – that small fee is probably just a nuisance charge since it costs them a lot more than that to process it.
We did this several years ago and definitely noticed a dramatic reduction in junk mail.
There was also a central credit agency number (for all 3 agencies) we contacted to block ‘marketing inquiries’ on our credit report. This completely stopped *all* those stupid credit card applications. Now we do sometimes get ‘affinity’ credit card apps since we already have relationships with those places – University of Michigan, my fraternity, etc…
The credit card companies do a pre-check on your credit file before deciding whether to send you an application. They don’t get any specific financial info back from the agency – only name & address for customers fitting the profile they asked for in their inquiry. (income over $50,000, etc…)
Lizzie asks…
How would I compile a list of the largest direct response advertisers on cable TV?
I’d like to compile a list of the companies that do extensive 1-800 number direct response advertising on (US) cable tv. I’m referring to the commercials and infomercials that are selling all sorts of gadgets, cleaners, gold coins, exercise equipment and the like. Any ideas would be most appreciated.
Thanks
Jere answers:
DMA or Direct Marketing Association offered that publication before. Check out their bookstore page (though it is expensive)
https://imis.the-dma.org/bookstore/index.cfm
Susan asks…
How do I find and recruit a savvy direct marketer?
Recruiting is not my specialty… I must find the right individual to fill the shoes below… Any advise on how to find such an individual?
==========
Marketing & Operations Manager required by direct response copywriter and marketing strategist to run all marketing and operational aspects of a variety of multi-million dollar campaigns.
A lucrative and long-term opportunity for a true business builder… must be experienced in all aspects of managing offline and online marketing campaigns (directly and/or via 3rd party vendors)… including but not limited to:
Managing outsourced operations, affiliate recruitment and management, joint venture deal brokering, SEO, PPC, public relations, viral marketing, online & offline list brokering, online & offline media buying.
The most generous profit share will be offered to the right person.
Jere answers:
If the position is as high level as you suggest, it is worth investing in a good executive recruiting firm. You might also post ads in relevant trade journals and network at trade shows. The DMA (Direct Marketers Association) would be a good place to start. If you want someone with heavy online experience you could also try AdTech, Shop.org and SES.
Michael asks…
How to buy furniture and accessories direct to start a small business?
I have a few friends that have started businesses, one a rug and home accessory, and another a furniture business, I have always wanted to own a small furniture and home accent business and have gone to the market in High Point NC and Atlanta Georgia.Buying from the manufacturer is not cheap and the mark up would have to be ridiculas.You also have to make major purchases to carry most lines of furniture. I would be more interested in discontinued or floor samples.They both are very successful and are hush hush about where they get their merchandise. but I do know that they get it dirt cheap and they travel to pick everything up.I am more interested in sofas. Can anyone give me some ideas where to start.
Thanks Rob B.
Jere answers:
You might try joining an industry association, with which you could obtain a list of other members, including their specialty. I’m not sure which association but look for something similar to a furniture wholesalers association.
Good luck!
Maria asks…
Where can I get databases with company names & addresses from?
I need to do a load of marketing (UK) and for this I will keep all companies I contact on a data base. Problem is, it takes forever to find details and write them in. Can I get ready made ones on the Internet (in excel form)? And are there free ones or will I have to pay?
Its for anything to do with construction and landscaping.
Jere answers:
Have a search for data sales companies, the ones that are registered with the DMA (Direct Marketing Association) are the ones that play by the rules, of which there are many. The DMA website has all the rules you’ll need, I suggest reading them first and working out what you actually need. Then call a couple of the companies to get quotes and go for the best! Always get it tps/fps/mps or emps cross referenced (depending on what you’re using it for) to cover your own back (this will make sense when you’ve read the DMA website).
There are people that will give away free data, but generally the rule is if it’s free, there’s a reason. Good quality data costs but it’s worth the investment if you get multiple use of it.
When you speak to the sales people try to be as precise as possible with your requirements and ask for a sample of 20 records to check yourself and see what you’re actually getting. Any good company will send you a sample with no problems.
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