1.3.2 promotional methods

Question 1

What are promotional methods?

Answer 1

Promotional methods are the different methods that businesses use to inform consumers about their products and to persuade consumers to buy them.

Question 2

Examples of promotional methods

Answer 2

Public realtions 
sales promotion 
social media 
advertising 
product placements 
sponsorship

Question 3

Advertising

Answer 3

Advertising is the most obvious promotional method. Advertising is sometimes called “above the line” promotion and it involves a business paying to have their product or service promoted in a public space. It aims to make consumers aware of a product and to get them to buy the product or service

Question 4

Types of advertising platform

Answer 4

Advertising can happen through various platforms, such as Newspapers, Magazines, Television, Internet, Billboards or Social Media.
The platform that a business uses depends on the target market of the product or service.

Question 5

Why is it important when choosing an advertising platform

Answer 5

The platform that businesses choose is important to make sure that they reach the right target market and have the maximum impact.
For example, social media or a TV programme may be a better way to reach young people than a broadsheet newspaper like The Times.

Question 6

Public relations

Answer 6

Public relations (PR) is all about a business’ reputation. PR involves maintaining a good public image.

Question 7

What is the aim of public relations

Answer 7

• PR involves managing the spread of information about the business.
• The aim of PR is to make sure this information is as positive as possible and reaches the largest possible audience

Question 8

Examples of PR

Answer 8

• An example of PR is the use of newspaper editorials, where people in a business manage the business’ relationships with different newspapers, sending them articles to publish about the business.
• Businesses do not pay the newspaper for this coverage like they would for advertising.

Question 9

Sales promotions

Answer 9

In sales promotions, businesses try to boost sales using a temporary promotion.

Question 10

Types of sales promotions

Answer 10

Samples
Discount coupons 
Free gifts
Point of sales displays 
Competitions 
Value for money offers (buy one get one free)

Question 11

Types of sales promotions - competitions

Answer 11

Businesses are increasingly using competitions on social media.
For example, “like and share this post for a chance to win a free meal for two at Nandos.”