10 Tips For Running A Successful Postcard Marketing Campaign

Marketing with postcards is one of the most cost-effective, eye-catching ways to reach your audience directly - placing them right in their hands. But to make the most of this channel, it's not just about sending beautiful postcards - it's about strategy. 

Whether you're a seasoned marketer or exploring direct mail for the first time, here are ten practical tips to help you get the best results from your campaigns. 

1. Conduct recurring campaigns 

The key to staying top-of-mind is consistency. A single postcard might spark interest, but recurring campaigns help build brand familiarity and credibility. Regardless of whether you dispatch postcards every three, six, or twelve months, maintaining regular contact helps guarantee that when a customer is prepared to purchase, your brand is one that comes to mind. 

That being said, not every campaign needs to be recurring. Time-sensitive deals or seasonal promotions may work better as one-off mailers. Align your campaign approach with your message and goals. 

2. Segment your audience 

Your mailing list can make or break your campaign - up to 40% of your success comes down to targeting the right people. Instead of targeting everyone, focus on recipients who match your ideal customer profile. Selling smart home products? Target households likely to invest in home tech. Running a kids' clothing brand? Aim for families with young children. 

Stannp's audience segmentation tools can help you build and manage custom mailing lists using demographic filters - so you're only reaching the people who are most likely to engage. 

3. Use a trackable call-to-action (CTA)

Every postcard should guide your recipient to take the next step - whether that's scanning a QR code, visiting a personalised landing page, or calling a dedicated phone number. 

A strong CTA not only drives action but also allows you to measure success. Some simple examples include:

• "Scan the QR code to get 20% off"
• "Visit (YourBrand).com/offer to claim your gift"
• "Call 0800-XXXX-XXXX to book your consultation"

4. Always follow up 

Your job isn't done once the postcards are delivered. Following up is crucial. Use emails, social ads, or personal phone calls to reinforce your message. Sales teams should be ready to reach out to engaged recipients quickly. A timely follow-up can turn a warm lead into a loyal customer. 

5. Avoid using postcard marketing as sales pitches 

Postcards are great for capturing attention - but with limited space, it's not the place for a full sales pitch. Instead, use them to spark curiosity and drive traffic to where the full story lives - your website, landing page, or a personal conversation. Focus on relationship-building, not just selling. 

6. Proofread everything

Spelling errors, incorrect contact details, or unclear offers can harm your brand image. Always double-check your content before you print. Ask a colleague to review the design with fresh eyes - they might catch something you've missed. Your postcard is a reflection of your business, so make sure it's polished. 

7. Personalise where possible

Personalisation makes a difference. Including a recipient's name or referencing something relevant to them increases the chances your postcard will be read - and kept. 

In fact:

• 71% of consumers feel frustrated by impersonal experiences 
• 90% find personalisation appealing
• Customers are 2.1x more likely to engage with personalised messages 

At Stannp, our platform makes it easy to personalise your direct mail at scale using variable data like names, locations, preferences and more. 

8. Include an offer they can't resist

Great offers drive responses. Whether it's a discount, free trial, or exclusive gift - make your offer clear and compelling. 

Examples that perform well:

• "Buy 1, get 1 free"
• "10% off your first order"
• "Refer a friend and get £20 credit"
• "Use code WELCOME10 for 10% off"

Don't leave recipients wondering, "What's in it for me?"

9. Include your contact details 

You would be surprised how often businesses forget this simple step. Every postcard should include:

• Your website URL
• Phone number 
• Email address 
• Company name and logo 

If space is tight, use the back of the postcard or a QR code that links to your contact page.

10. Talk about benefits, not just features

 Your message should answer one key question: "How does this help me?"

Rather than listing technical features, show how your product or service improves the customer's life. For example, instead of "made from durable plastic", try "lightweight and easy to clean". 

Turn every feature into a benefit your audience can relate to. 

Bonus tip...add a testimonial 

If space allows, include a short testimonial or quote from a happy customer. Social proof builds trust quickly and can be the nudge someone needs to take action. 

Final thoughts...

Postcard marketing works when it's done with purpose. At Stannp, we help businesses create, print, and send personalised postcards that deliver real results. From targeting to design to delivery - we've got you covered. Whether you're launching your first campaign or scaling an existing one, get in touch with us today to see how direct mail can help your business grow.