In online marketing, remarketing and retargeting are two strategies employed to re-engage non-converting website visitors. Although both are frequently used interchangeably, they do differ. Let’s discuss them separately.
1.Retargeting
Retargeting is the display of ads to individuals who have already come to your site but failed to undertake a desired action (such as a purchase). It is mainly performed through web or social media display ads and operates by employing cookies to keep tabs on online activity by visitors. If a person comes to your site but exits without converting, retargeting ads show up elsewhere that the person visits, reminding them of your product.
2.Remarketing
Remarketing is more explicit, usually through email. If a visitor to your website does not purchase a product, you can send him or her an additional email reminding them or offering a special promotion to get them to make the purchase. Remarketing may involve more targeted messaging depending on what the user did on the site.
3.Focus and Targeting
Retargeting targets individuals based on past website activity, generally with display ads. It’s best suited for casting a large net and pulling in a general audience.
Remarketing is more highly targeted and aimed at re-engaging individuals who already have engaged with your brand to some extent (e.g., abandoned shopping carts). It’s a more intimate approach that often includes direct communication such as email.
4.Conversion Strategy
Retargeting is excellent for building brand awareness and reminding users of products they’ve expressed interest in. It’s an excellent strategy for cold or warm leads.
Remarketing generally targets users who are more advanced in the conversion funnel and might have already expressed a greater degree of interest. It’s perfect for nudging leads towards a purchase or action.
Conclusion
Although both retargeting and remarketing are intended to win back potential customers, retargeting is more general and usually conducted using ads, whereas remarketing is more personal and typically carried out through the use of email. Understanding the difference will assist you in selecting the best strategy to re-engage your audience.
