How to Plan a Cross-Media Campaign with Traditional Ads

CMC Advertising April 23, 2025
Digital Media Media Planning and Buying Traditional Media (TV, Radio, Print)

People are constantly switching between phones, computers, and other screens. That’s why it’s so important to run marketing campaigns that make sense across every channel. Digital tools are fast and can reach lots of people, but traditional ads still build trust and feel familiar. The trick is to combine them in a cross-media campaign that feels smooth and connected.

We help San Diego businesses build simple, effective campaigns that bring print and digital together.

Know Your Goal and Who You’re Trying to Reach

Before you start, get clear on who your audience is and what action you want them to take. Are you trying to get people into your store? Promote an upcoming event? Spread the word about a new product or service? Once you know your goal, figure out who you’re speaking to—where they live, what they care about, and how they like to hear from businesses.

This helps shape everything else—your message, your look, and which platforms you use.

Make Sure Your Message Feels the Same Everywhere

Your message should feel connected no matter where someone sees it. That doesn’t mean repeating the exact same words everywhere, but it should all feel like it’s coming from the same voice. For example, a print ad in a magazine can start the conversation, then a postcard might follow up with a special offer, and a Facebook ad can keep the message going with customer stories or reviews.

Keeping it consistent helps people recognize your brand and trust what you’re saying.

Combine Traditional and Digital for Better Results

Old-school ads like direct mail, flyers, billboards, and radio still work well—especially when they’re paired with digital tools. Here are a few ways to make them work together:

  • Direct mail + Email: Send a postcard, then follow it with an email that backs up the same message.
  • Radio + Social media: Run a radio ad, then repeat the message with posts or stories on social media.
  • Print ad + Landing page: Add a simple URL or QR code that leads people to a page made just for that campaign.

Each part of your campaign does a different job. But when they all work together, they move people from first glance to taking action.

Watch the Results and Adjust as Needed

You’ve got to track how things are going. Use things like custom links, phone numbers, or codes to see what’s working. Find out which channels bring in the most clicks, calls, or visits—and change things up if needed.

Cross-media campaigns are meant to be flexible. If one part is doing better than expected, focus more energy there. If something’s not working, tweak it or try a different angle.

Let’s Create a Campaign That Reaches Everyone

You don’t need to pick between online and offline. When you blend both the right way, they support each other and help your message stick.

Creative Media Concepts works with local businesses to plan campaigns that make an impact across all platforms. Whether you’re kicking off something new or want to get more from your current marketing, we’re here to help.

Call 619-337-8088 or send us a message to set up a free strategy session. We’ll help you build a campaign that gets noticed and gets results.

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