Congratulations. You’ve updated your independent agency’s website, polished up your social media presence, and nailed down a killer digital marketing campaign. You’re smart enough to know the importance of harnessing the latest technology and trends to appeal to today’s consumer. But as surprising as this may sound, there are some still some pretty great old-school tactics that should probably be on your radar too.

Use snail mail creatively.

We’re not talking about “Dear Current Resident” mass mailings here - although there’s plenty of evidence that even that kind of direct mail could still merit a place in your marketing strategy. We’re talking about hand-written postcards addressed to real prospects, and concluded with your real (not stamped) signature.

Let’s face it, when folks go through a daily stack of mail, they shuffle everything else to the back and open that handwritten note first - not only because it’s such an irresistible rarity these days, but also because it speaks to them as real, individual people. Sure, this marketing tactic takes some time and effort, but the persuasive power of personalization could pay off big-time.

Ring a few doorbells.

Pay your prospect an actual doorbell-ringing visit. Okay, some of you are cringing at the mere thought. It’s definitely not for everyone, but there are well-known real estate firms and investment companies that still swear by door-to-door visits and make them a regular part of their marketing strategy.

If you’re game, prepare your best 30-second script, practice it until it doesn’t sound like one, and bring a door-hanger with your contact info in case no one answers. Best case scenario: Your prospect will be impressed by your all-out, committed approach. Worst case: At least you got some exercise. As some door-to-door proponents have said, “Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.”

Carry blank business cards.

When you’re talking to a prospect who says, “Sure, you can call me - Oh, darn, I don’t have any cards with me,” hand him/her one of your cute little blank cards (and maybe a “feel free to keep it” pen with your company logo) and ask him/her to write down his/her contact info.

Oh, sure, you could just say, “Give me your number and I’ll put it in my phone,” but this actually engages your prospect, making this encounter with the super-prepared you a lot more memorable. And of course, hand him/her one of your real business cards too.

Remember, in some cases, old is the new “new.”

So what old-school marketing tactics have helped you persuade prospects?