Why tactile marketing still stands out in the age of screen fatigue

Woman sitting cross-legged on the floor using a laptop, symbolising screen fatigue in action and the need for tactile marketing to create real connections.

Scroll, scroll, scroll. Sound familiar? In today’s digital age, most of us spend hours each day checking emails, skimming Instagram, or dodging endless “buy now” pop-ups. Before long, it all blends into one – that’s screen fatigue in action. And it’s not just you feeling it. Your clients and customers are just as overwhelmed.

It’s not that people don’t care about your brand. It’s simply that their brains need a break, which is exactly why tactile marketing is making a comeback. Physical, tangible marketing cuts through the noise because it feels different – literally.

Why touch creates memory

Think about the last ad you saw online. Chances are, you can’t recall it clearly. Now think about the free tote bag you picked up at an event, the postcard you pinned to your fridge, or the packaging insert that made you smile. Those tactile details stick because touch is a powerful way to create memory.

When people can hold something in their hands, it creates a more personal, lasting connection than a fleeting notification on a screen ever could.

Standing out in a scroll-happy world

The problem with digital ads is that they all live in the same crowded space – inboxes, social feeds, and search results. Nothing feels truly special.

That’s why a flyer tucked into a shopping bag, a thank-you postcard, or a thoughtful packaging extra can grab attention. It’s unexpected. It interrupts routine. And it can’t be swiped away in a second.

Even bigger touches have their place too. Banner printing is a brilliant example – at trade shows, local fairs, or outside your shop, a big, bold banner will stop people in their tracks. You quite literally can’t do that with a social media ad.

The power of the little things

It’s not just about banners or posters. Customers love the smaller details – a handwritten thank-you note, a branded sticker, or a postcard slipped into their order. These moments show effort, care, and personality. They tell your clients they’re more than just another number in your marketing funnel.

And that’s where tactile marketing shines. It feels human. It feels thoughtful. It’s the refreshing break people crave from an overwhelming digital world.

How a virtual assistant can help

The challenge? Creating and managing these tactile marketing touchpoints takes time and organisation. From sourcing print materials and managing banner printing, to designing postcards and coordinating distribution, it can quickly become another task on an already full to-do list.

That’s where a virtual assistant can step in. With the right support, you can build tactile marketing into your strategy without adding to your workload. A VA can help you plan, source, and manage the details – freeing you up to focus on building connections, not juggling logistics.

If you’d like to explore how a virtual assistant could support your marketing, I’d love to chat. Get in touch today, and let’s make sure your brand stands out in a world of screen fatigue.

TDLR: Digital ads blur together – that’s screen fatigue in action – but tactile marketing stands out. From postcards and flyers to banner printing and packaging extras, physical touchpoints help your business feel more memorable and human. And with a virtual assistant to manage the details, it’s easier than ever to make them part of your strategy.

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Emma Read

Emma Read is the award-winning founder of Emma Read VA & Associates, a business dedicated to helping entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners with tailored virtual assistant support. Since launching in 2016, Emma has focused on giving business owners the time and space to focus on what they love by providing reliable, professional support.

Emma offers a personalised approach to ensure that clients receive the right virtual assistant support, whether it’s from her or a trusted member of her UK-based team. From understanding your needs to seamless onboarding, Emma takes care of everything, so you can stop feeling overwhelmed and get back to running your business.

Get in touch with Emma today to discover how tailored virtual assistant support can help your business grow.

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