How We Built a Data-First Marketing Funnel for Northwestern Mutual

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Jay Ives

A globally recognized
marketing expert

online banking digital interface

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Brand equity is the currency of trust. Northwestern Mutual stands as one of the national leaders in wealth management, retirement, and insurance. Their rich history and strong reputation has been one of the best for generations. For brands at this magnitude, the marketing challenge is rarely about initial awareness. It’s about what happens next.

When Northwestern Mutual partnered with us, our goal was to leverage the strong brand reputation and pair targeted marketing to build a pipeline of high-net-worth leads. Together, we worked on developing a performance marketing engine that could operate with precision, identifying and converting individuals who met their ideal client persona (ICP).

This is the story of how we built that engine.

 

Chapter 1

The Opportunity: Expanding Beyond Brand Awareness

We recognized that while NWM brand attracted widespread attention, each visitor arrived with unique financial needs and questions.

We began by refreshing their digital experience from a generalized pathway to a personalized, guided journey. Our mission was to craft  personalized routes that directly addressed individual financial situations.

 

We also developed nurturing programs that engaged users as their intent matured from exploration to serious consideration. While implementing advanced behavioral tracking to identify and prioritize prospects who demonstrated readiness to convert. This ultimately connected Northwestern Mutual’s advisors with highly interested individuals.

Still Image of Pan Around View Of Digital Lines Connecting To Modern Smartphone And Transferring Money From Bank Account

Jives Media – The Top Credit Union Marketing Agency

Attracting and retaining members requires a strategically executed digital marketing approach. It demands a deep understanding of the credit union difference and the ability to translate that into compelling, personalized experiences across all touchpoints.

We combine financial services expertise with cutting-edge marketing technology and creative a plan to help:

  • Increase membership growth through high-converting Google Ads campaigns designed specifically for credit unions.
  • Boost member engagement and loyalty through personalized communication.
  • Enhance digital footprint and local search visibility.
  • Strengthen community ties and brand reputation.
  • Maximize the return on marketing investment.

 

Ready to transform your credit union’s marketing? Contact us today to explore how our tailored solutions can help you achieve your growth and retention goals.

 

FAQ

Why is Gen Z’s mobile app satisfaction critical for credit unions now?

Gen Z represents the largest generational wealth transfer in history. With many of them considering switching to banks due to poor mobile experiences, credit unions risk irrelevance. Their Gen Z banking habits demand instant, personalized digital interactions.

How can we compete with neobanks’ tech budgets?

Focus on high-impact, low-cost wins: prioritize "quick fixes" (e.g., enabling Zelle in 6 weeks), leverage existing data for AI personalization (no core system overhaul needed), and partner strategically.

Can we really become a "banking super app"?

Yes, by integrating high-demand features without rebuilding from scratch: partner with Affirm/Afterpay, embed carbon calculators, and/or enable Apple Pay/Google Pay.

Why partner with Jives Media instead of in-house marketing?

Our unique advantage rests in: dedicated expertise without overhead, our holistic omnichannel approach, and leveraging our battle-tested credit union expertise.
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