By Alan Graner
In a previous blog I discussed techniques for developing a call to action (CTA) to get prospects and customers to do what you want them to do.
Now let’s look at some real-world examples.
The following are taken from Smithsonian magazine, May 2012. They are all ads, but the principle remains the same regardless of medium.
Make your call to action urgent
Bicentennial mint set
Ad: Special 3-piece proof set (dollar, half-dollar, quarter) struck in precious silver.
CTA: Order now risk free. We expect our small quantity of Bicentennial Silver Proof Sets to disappear quickly at this special price.
Stauer
Ad: Hybrid (analog/digital) chronograph
CTA: Offer Limited to First 2500 Respondents. Call now to take advantage of this limited offer. 1-888-324-4370
First Street
Ad: Computers designed for seniors
CTA: Call now for our special introductory price! 1-877-763-3262
The Folio Society
Ad: A unique collection of fairy tale classics
CTA: Reply today and save $362.80 (coupon)
NeutronicEar
Ad: Hearing aid
CTA: Call now Toll Free for lowest prices ever. 1-866-781-9189
Use time limits
Scottevest
Ad: Travel vests that carry all your essentials
CTA: Visit www.GetSeV.com/SMITH to explore our full line and SAVE 20% OFF the Classic Vest for Men and Women. Offer valid until 06/15/2012. See website for promo code.
The Great Courses
Ad: Save $160 on college course DVD: Experience the wonders of the Hubble Telescope
CTA: Offer expires 06/22/12 1-800-832-2412
Littleton Coin Company
Ad: New state quarters honoring America’s national parks
CTA: Each minted for about ten weeks, then never again—order now! To order, please mail coupon or visit us at www.LittletonCoin.com/specials
Gravity Defyer
Ad: Biomechanical footwear
CTA: Exclusive Limited Offer. Don’t miss out! Take advantage of this exclusive offer at www.GravityDefyer.com/MF9EDH3 or call (800) 429-0039 and mention the promotional code below.
Offer a premium
Texas
Ad: Encourage tourism
CTA: “To plan your own Texas adventure or to order your FREE Texas State Travel Guide, Accommodations Guide and Texas Map, visit TravelTex.com.
Smithsonian Journeys
Ad: Travel the world
CTA: Book today to enjoy the trip of a lifetime!
Receive your FREE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE! Call Today 1-877-338-8687 or visit SmithsonianJourneys.org
Sadigh Gallery
Ad: Authentic ancient artifacts and coins
CTA: To receive a FREE color catalog call toll free (800) 426-2007
Plasma CAM
Ad: Cut precise metal shapes in a flash
CTA: Call today for your FREE demo video (719) 676-2700
What call to action techniques work for you?
Image: Nesster’s photostream via Flickr
Alan Graner is Chief Creative Officer at Daly-Swartz Public Relations, an Orange County, CA marketing communications firm. You too can have an effective PR campaign that makes your company, products and/or services memorable, but only if you email Jeffrey Swartz at jeffreyswartz@dsprel.com.
