I've been trying to convince my boss and general entourage that youtube video demos of gear are the way to go to generate store traffic compared to good old newspaper ads.
mainly, the points i'm thinking are
1) the product is demoed in a familiar setting for local storegoers. so they can replicate the same test with different variables but have a good idea of what they're in for
2) it can generate interest for product not currently in stock. which means you can focus on stocking newer things while the good old usual stocking products can be ordered easily when interest is manifested (and once you get a few customers satisfied (hint: average boss pedals and peavey amps or beginner guitars.... ETC)
3) it gets your face known, and if you do a good job demoing the product and showcasing your knowledge of facts and important gear stuff, it can make an unknown face come in the store already knowing what's up, since they've seen -you- demo the gear they were searching for and you're a local face. confidence ensues. (I've done countless repairs for customers and still people assume that cause i'm young i don't know jack. the beard tends to helps nowadays though ;) )
4) it's possible for staff members to get their favorites out to average customers. let's face it, we're all gear hounds here, and some of us do work in music retail stores (like me) and we all have our personal favorite amps, whether they are regular stock and we love the price to quality ratio, or they're good products our suppliers can get us that don't have big name advertising. it's a good opportunity to get that elusive stompbox demo to the common folk.
5) website linking, if you link a youtube demo to your store website, and the website has imbedded youtube demos, and the myspace and the facebook has video demos.... there isn't much to lose.
From the way i see it, it's a great opportunity to get people decided on the different products without first going to the store and spending gas money. and then, a phone call or an email doesn't cost much. That's where the sales man does his job. and then, well, people come in and try it in the flesh. and if it still doesn't work, the relationship is far enough to assume the customer will trust me to find something else that fits his needs.
what do you guys think? do i have enough arguments? also, if you guys don'T mind a trip to the french side of america.
http://www.sonotheque.ca i'Ve been arguing day and night that the website lacks corporate polishing but my boss doesn't want to pay for a decent design. tell me i'm right in my crusade :D
