What’s old becomes new again. Marketers see this time and again, and everybody loves a good comeback story. Today, editor-at-large Kim Davis reports on how direct mail is driving customer engagement and sales through persistent, relevant, data-driven mailpieces.

We also take a look at the future of marketing and how AI agents can restore customer trust. Customers are growing tired of giving the same information over and over again to forms and human agents. Many accept AI agents as a way around this headache. But they also want transparency about who they’re talking to, and how they can quickly speak with someone human if the need arises.

Chris Wood
Editor

 
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Digital advertising

New horizons for data-driven direct mail marketing

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The way direct mail combines digital with, well, mail can look like the way CTV combines digital with, yes, TV. And the ROI is still good, marketers say.

Marketing artificial intelligence (AI)

How genAI can fill the trust gap for brands

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Brands like Saks are using genAI to build trust and improve customer experience transparently.

Marketing artificial intelligence (AI)

AI-powered martech news and releases: October 31

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Do customers trust AI? 60% said yes in one survey, but 52% are worried about it in another survey. Do they trust companies with AI? Not much.

Marketing technology

Fueling better marketing plans with Shell

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Discover how Shell streamlined marketing plans for 30+ markets and cut down manual work with automation.

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Get more out of your webinars: Strategies for 24/7 engagement

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Virtual events and webinars don’t stop when the live stream ends! That’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Marketing artificial intelligence (AI)

How to use generative AI to reduce friction and convert car buyers

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See how AI-driven pre-approvals break down barriers in auto finance, creating a secure and accessible loan experience for Hispanic consumers.

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Marketing technology

This is what the ‘typical’ martech replacement looks like

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It starts with managers looking for new features and ends three to six months later with a new tool for the team.

MarTech webinar

Content is key to ecommerce success

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Customers expect fast, tailored journeys. But meeting those expectations takes more than just great products. It requires strategic, adaptable content that truly connects.

 

Performance marketing

How search analytics can tailor messaging and maximize performance

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Organic search insights go beyond keywords. Use them to uncover consumer needs, tailor messaging and enhance marketing across channels.

On-demand training

The complete fall season of MarTech is now available

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Stream over 20 hours of world-class training designed to help you drive better marketing outcomes: Sign up for free access to the complete fall season of MarTech. Training topics include the iOS 18 email inbox impact, generative AI, data-driven journeys, Google’s third-party cookies decision, CTV, lead gen vs. demand gen, and more.

Start streaming for free

What else we're reading

Good reads and conversations to help good marketers get better.
 

MarTech research

Surveys and research reports to make you a more-informed marketer
 

What they're saying

 

From Search Engine Land