Sales flourish via the electronic media like websites of which there are more than 182 million in 2010 according to Netcraft, They are an economical way to inform the public and to solicit business. Some are marvels of design and electronics while the more modest ones also serve a business purpose and foster the self-image of the owner. After all, merely having one augments one’s self image. Closely allied, and a newer phenomenon, is the blog which is often a virtual website and carries the designation website/blog. “Virgilsviews.com” is an example. A blog permits the owner to express opinions to a large audience. It promotes democracy since long silent citizens can speak (write) with vigor and maybe even dogmatism. A spirited blog often prompts a spirited response from the reader.
The blog becomes a sales agent when it serves as a website, and the sales person can use it to persuade prospects to buy the product or service on display.
Other phenomena for selling confront the Internet surfer. Many have signed on to Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, You Tube, Flickr and who knows how many more?
Another electronic medium used to sell is Telemarketing which is well-known to anyone with a telephone. The calls, often at inopportune hours, irritated so many that the Government imposed a “Don’t Call” system. I now receive almost no such calls, but relatives in Florida and Maryland still report a large number. Ironically, while in the past complaining about such intrusions, I use the technique in a very limited way to call prospective customers (never at mealtime or bedtime).
Television and radio are costly media for selling a product or service. Charges vary widely, but at a minimum the cost will probably be $5.00 for a 30-second program. They are effective, however, they may be best for those with bigger budgets.
