What Is the Difference Between Direct and Indirect Marketing?

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Direct marketing is an advertising strategy that physically deals and communicates with the consumer, while indirect marketing advertises in quantity by mass media outlets, such as Internet, TV and radio ads. Direct marketing methods include telemarketing, subscriptions and fliers.

Direct marketing is used primarily by small businesses. It serves as a direct channel between the buyer and seller. Outreach is often much smaller with direct marketing, but it tends to be more personable and reliable.

Companies with brand recognition or large budgets for advertising tend to use indirect marketing strategies or a mixture of both, as this combination reaches a wider audience.