Push and pull strategy in marketing are two sides of the same coin. Push marketing involves “pushing” your product to consumers. It’s about putting your product right in front of them, making it impossible to ignore. Think TV ads, radio spots, or in-store displays. You’re shoving the product into the spotlight.

Pull marketing, on the other hand, “pulls” customers toward your product. It’s about creating demand so customers seek out your product. This is often done through engaging content, social media, or word of mouth. You’re attracting customers naturally, like a magnet.

You are probably a master at pushing and pulling things… or people. But how about in the marketing world?

How Is It Relevant To OOH?

Out-of-home (OOH) advertising is everywhere. Billboards, bus shelters, subway ads—they’re all OOH. This medium can use both push and pull strategies effectively.

With push marketing in OOH, the goal is to grab attention immediately. Bold, eye-catching billboards with a clear message work well. You’re reaching a broad audience, fast.

Pull marketing in OOH might look different. It could be an interactive ad that encourages social media engagement. Or a QR code leading to a fun, viral campaign. You’re creating curiosity and encouraging people to find out more on their own.

When To Push Or Pull?

Deciding between push and pull strategy in marketing depends on your goals and the market.

Use push marketing when you need quick results. Launching a new product? Want to boost sales fast? Push is your go-to. It’s also great for reaching a wide audience, fast.

Pull marketing is best for long-term engagement. Building a brand? Want to create loyal customers? Pull is the way. It’s perfect for niche markets where a personal touch matters.

In OOH advertising, you can mix both. Start with a push to gain attention. Follow up with a pull strategy to keep the interest alive.

Why Should Brands Integrate Push And Pull Strategy In Marketing?

“If it’s so good, what could go wrong?”.

You might ask. Although the push and pull strategy in marketing is brilliant, it is also important to understand the risks that come along with it. Let us break it down for you.

Push Marketing:

Advantages:

• Immediate impact. Your message is seen by many, in a short period of time.
• Great for new product launches.
• Can quickly boost sales.

Disadvantages:

• Can be costly, especially with billboards and TV ads, if done wrong.
• Might be seen as intrusive. Not everyone likes being “pushed.”
• Limited engagement. It’s one-way communication.

Pull Marketing:

Advantages:

• Builds strong brand loyalty.
• Engages customers. They feel in control.
• Cost-effective. Content marketing can be cheaper than ads.

Disadvantages:

• It takes time. The results aren’t instant.
• It requires ongoing effort. You need to keep the content fresh at all times.
• It can be hard to measure. Engagement isn’t always easy to track.

What Do We Learn?

Push and pull marketing strategies both have their place in OOH advertising. Knowing when and how to use them can make your campaigns more effective. Know your goals. Whether you’re grabbing attention with a bold billboard or creating buzz with an interactive ad, the key is to balance both strategies for maximum impact.

Image Credits: Marketing-Interactive, Simplilearn