Is hiring sales reps to sell online ads an outdated way to compete in 2015?
ROBERT WYNNE
Partner
Wynne Communications
Yes. Does anyone ever read online ads? With AdBlock for Chrome and other apps, it’s very easy to bypass most ads on the Web. Most companies should utilize public relations instead of advertising.
CHRIS MIGLINO
Chief Executive
Social Reality
You need both. You need somebody who’s going to sell the ads or the automated process. People buy ads. Computers don’t buy ads.
ANDY DAVIS
Director of Business Development
TruBrain
It is very outdated with all the online sales tools that can reach a lot more people in a lot less time. All that is needed is one person to manage the process.
EITAN WEINSTOCK
Managing Director
AST Defeasance
No, a personal touch makes a difference. Particularly in a complex, sophisticated field, online marketing needs to be tailored to most effectively target relevant potential customers.
JENNIFER SARGENT
Chief Executive
HitFix
No. If you want to command premium CPMs and sponsorships in the marketplace, it is necessary to have a (preferably direct) salesperson representing your brand. Programmatic buying only gets you so far, but it doesn’t address the custom, high-margin opportunities that require a live conversation and/or relationship with the marketer.
