Are you relying too much on digital marketing?
What did businesses do before the internet, or if they couldn’t pay for ads in the papers or fancy business directories?
They relied on people & connections.
I recall as a child in England, being dragged to Rotary events with my parents. Drinks parties, fund-raisers, building playgrounds, sponsored walks…
Rotary is a global, humanitarian organisation, working to connect local businesses with the community, which still exits today.
But back in the late 70s and 80s, when my parents were members, it was THE business networking organisation for professionals. Ambitious people belonged to Rotary. Business happened between the members. Lifelong friendships were formed.
It was how people discovered each other and did business before websites, banner ads, LinkedIn, social media & apps.
Rotary was, and still is, people-centric because people matter.
The same applies today. People matter. No software or GPT avatar will ever replace the power of human connection.
Despite business being so digital & techy, the magic truly happens when you meet PEOPLE; when you keep in contact, when you make the effort to show up in person. Nurturing relationships beyond the internet is crucial.
The Creative Business Summit was conceived from a conversation I had with someone. I couldn’t organise such a great event without my real-world connections and network.
No fancy online strategy can replace the old school strategy of speaking to, meeting and keeping in touch with people. I love the vast & varied network I am connected to. Some are years-old friends, some I first met online and some are more recent local connections.
And it has reaped rewards: press coverage, radio interviews, offers of practical help, introductions to potential sponsors, ticket sales…and a word-of-mouth buzz that money can’t buy.
On stage at The Creative Business Summit 2026
My Old Skool marketing & connection activities for The Creative Business Summit:
- Sending out press releases & media packs.
- Accepting coffee catch-ups from interested parties – I’ve had amazing people contact me after hearing about The Creative Business Summit, who have been generous with advice, support & connections.
- Volunteering for local creative events & joining societies. Never dismiss grass roots.
- Attending events, exhibitions, talks and just meeting people. Genuine conversations are very revealing and powerful.
- Asking for advice or introductions – people love to help.
- Following up on the advice and introductions.
How can you harness traditional marketing methods for your work, your business, your association? Combine digital with traditional for incredible results.
Think beyond digital. You’ll find golden nuggets in the old ways!
⭐ For more information or to buy a ticket for The Creative Business Summit:
www.thecreativebusinesssummit.com