When it comes down to it, politicians are all the same. No matter what political party or ideology they represent, each one wants the same thing: your vote. Ever since mankind began the process of selecting leaders, politicians have tried to find more efficient ways of spreading their message. From word-of-mouth marketing to radio and television and beyond, politicians have always been among the first individuals to make good marketing use of new technologies. In the past 15 years, the Internet and mobile digital devices hav been used more than ever by politicians to get the word out, and more importantly, to get the vote.
Social Media Marketing
With the rise of sites like Facebook and Twitter, it’s easier than ever to send a message out to large groups of people around the globe almost instantly. Politicians love this, as it allows them to quickly tailor their message on the fly. If a major event takes place during the day, politicians can use digital social media to virtually instantly respond to it. This advantage can also be a benefit when trying to gain new supporters. Digital social media allows politicians to be added to supporter’s social media sites, and then those supporters can go on to recommend the politician’s pages to friends, thereby acting as a marketing proxy. Politicians can also use social media marketing to respond to critics in a real-time environment. Because many social networks allow people to leave comments, any questions or derogatory remarks can quick;y be answered by a politician or his or her staff.
Video Marketing
In the past, politicians who chose to harness the power of the internet were often left with simple web pages, limited design capabilities and only the use of low resolution images. Thankfully, today, due to the high speed capability of many Internet providers, politicians are able to not just upload advanced websites, but also upload content-rich videos. Once again, through the use of quick and efficient video upload and playback services, politicians can quickly tailor their message to get votes. Video marketing is also a great way for politicians to personally interact with supporters. Some politicians use video services to speak directly to supporters, as well as opponents, This assists people in getting a more in depth feel for the politician, as well as his or her views an daily life.
Digital Voice and Message Marketing
As almost everyone has a cellphone these days, politicians are also trying to use this technology to gain votes. Many politicians are using digital voice technology to send out recorded messages designed to quickly and efficiently inform voters of their message. Some politicians also set up SMS text services that voters can sign up for to get the latest news and information on them and what their latest message is.
Blogging and Organic Search Marketing
Many politicians also use blogging and organic search marketing to increase their web presence for specific search terms. An example of this would be where a politician wants to highlight their particular stance on an issue. Typically, they then hire bloggers to write about those issues, and then turn to SEO professionals to assist in using those blogs to increase the politician’s rank for search terms related to the issue. In order to achieve more effective and lasting results, this is usually done organically. This technique can also be very beneficial to politicians who are running for office, as it allows them to get their message out above other candidates.
As it’s plain to see, politics has continued to adapt to changing technology. Regardless, it’s still important to vote on what you believe to be true, not just based on some catchy marketing gimmick.
Will writes for DLProg DL Prog a Non Governmental Organisation who specialise in addressing the important gap in international thinking and policy about the critical role played by leaders, elites and coalitions in the politics of development. Read DLProg’s developmental research papers or learn about the leadership development program at DLProg.org