What 35+ Years in Business Taught Us About Marketing that Works
Since 1989, we’ve worked with thousands of businesses—local start-ups, nonprofits, national brands, and everything in between. We’ve seen trends come and go, technologies evolve, and customer behaviors shift.
But some truths have held steady. Here’s what 35+ years in business taught us about marketing that actually works—and why it still matters today.
Consistency Beats Complexity.
You don’t need a complicated marketing plan. You need a consistent one.
The businesses that see the best results aren’t necessarily doing the most—they’re doing the right things regularly. Clear messaging, updated creative, smart targeting, and a commitment to showing up again and again. That’s what drives results.
Marketing isn’t magic. It’s momentum.
Clarity Wins Every Time.
If your audience has to work to understand what you do, they won’t.
Whether it’s a brochure, a homepage, or a social ad, clarity is king. The most successful campaigns we’ve seen over the years are the ones that get to the point—and do it with purpose.
Say what you do. Say who you help. Say why it matters. And say it in a way people remember.
Good Design Changes Everything.
We’ve watched brands go from overlooked to unforgettable—just by investing in good design.
When your visuals reflect the quality of your business, people pay attention. They assume you’re credible. They take you seriously. And they’re more likely to engage.
Design isn’t just aesthetics. It’s perception. And perception impacts performance.
Print Still Has Power.
We’ve been in print since the beginning—and we’re still in it for a reason.
Well-executed print campaigns drive action, build trust, and cut through the noise. They feel intentional. They last longer. And they meet your audience where they are—in mailboxes, in-store, and in-hand.
Digital might dominate the headlines. But print still delivers.
Relationships Matter More Than Reach.
We’ve worked with more than 4,000 clients over the years. The ones who succeed long-term? They build relationships—not just campaigns.
Marketing isn’t just about getting attention. It’s about earning it—and keeping it. That means listening, showing up, and creating work that respects your audience’s time and trust.
At the end of the day, that’s what we believe in. Not just doing work that looks good—but doing work that works.
Looking Ahead.
We’ve changed a lot since we started in that garage in 1989. But the heart of Ironside hasn’t changed: think smart, work hard, and do right by the people we serve.
Because good marketing doesn’t just grow your business. It grows your impact. And we’re proud to be a part of that story.
