Why Obama is a Marketing Genius
August 22, 2008
America is on the edge of its seat; anxiously awaiting the announcement of Obama's Vice Presidential candidate. For many, this doesn't mean being glued to CNN or NPR, it means watching their email or text message inboxes. The Obama campaign has been hyping the VP announcement for weeks - ensuring supporters that they will be the first to know when the news is released. While this strategy promises to make Obama supporters feel special and important, it also accomplishes a much more important marketing goal.
The Obama campaign is in the process of building a massive database with thousands (or more) names that can be utilized throughout the campaign. Whether Obama needs to respond quickly to attacks, whether he needs to push out important news, or whether he simply wants to motivate his supporters to go vote, Obama will be able to market directly to these individuals. Email marketing isn't new to politics, but the Obama campaign has taken it to the next level. It may be hard to see the value in this strategy now, as it might not reap immediate rewards, but it has the potential to be critically important as the election nears.
The Obama campaign is in the process of building a massive database with thousands (or more) names that can be utilized throughout the campaign. Whether Obama needs to respond quickly to attacks, whether he needs to push out important news, or whether he simply wants to motivate his supporters to go vote, Obama will be able to market directly to these individuals. Email marketing isn't new to politics, but the Obama campaign has taken it to the next level. It may be hard to see the value in this strategy now, as it might not reap immediate rewards, but it has the potential to be critically important as the election nears.
