Advertising is the best way to get your name out there so that customers know you as the go-to source for your service or product. The problem is that advertising can get outrageously expensive, so it’s difficult for both new businesses and established companies to go all-out unless they have an equally outrageous budget. If you’re willing to embrace creative options, however, you can advertise inexpensively and efficiently, drawing in new customers without obliterating your budget.
1. Jump on Social Networking Sites
Social networking is the best way to advertise in today’s tech-savvy, Internet-obsessed world. You need to take advantage of every possible social networking site, because they all have their strong points purposes:
- Use Facebook to engage with fans and customers, share information about deals, and answer customer concerns
- Use Twitter to banter with customers and other businesses, point followers to your company site, and share articles
- Use LinkedIn to network with other businesses in your area, make contacts, and find new employees, and customers
- Use Instagram to launch new products and showcase your existing work if your business lends itself well to photography and visual advertising
- Use Google+ to expand your reach, especially in terms of sharing information
It’s not just enough to have profiles on these sites, keep them updated regularly. Research how to use them to their best potential, and always engage with your fans and followers. If your budget allows, think about hiring a social media manager.
2. Launch a Website
It’s essential to have a website to direct your advertising efforts to. This will have some upfront costs, although there are several affordable hosts and domains, and you can generally get a layout designed for around $50. Make sure your logo is prominently featured, show your products and services in an eye-catching way, and think about adding a blog that relates to your niche.
Well-crafted articles with relevant content will set you up as an expert in your field. You can share information about your business itself, and about your industry. Share links to your products and blog posts over your social networks.
3. Advertise with a Well-Designed Banner
Advertising is all about drawing attention to your business. A well-designed, eye-catching banner is an excellent way to do that. A vivid display from bannerstandpros.com can draw the eye and bring people in to see what you’re offering. Because banner advertisements are versatile, you can place them outside of your storefront, in your store itself, or at kiosks and pop-up displays at networking events, conferences, and conventions. You can get advice from Shop Front Design professionals. The glass shopfronts will assist you in enhancing the look of your storefront.
4. Network as Much as Possible
Networking is still free and it’s enormously helpful. You may get advice that tells you to pay to join networking groups, but that isn’t necessary. Get to know the other businesses in your area, especially those that complement your business. Join the Small Business Association, and recommend other businesses to your customers and you can reap the benefits as your peers pay it forward.
5. Make Your Own Commercials
YouTube is a standout platform that makes it easy to reach a wide audience. With just a little creativity, you can create your own commercials, share them on your website and social networks, and push them to go viral. If you can make the audience laugh, cry, think, or experience other hot-button emotions, you’ll intrigue them. That’s the best form of advertising, because even people who don’t necessarily need your product will look at what you have to offer, and recommend you.
6. Publicize Your Logo Everywhere
Put your logo on Facebook, Twitter, and all your other social sites. Get high quality business cards from a low-cost source, and make sure your logo is prominent. If you can afford the minimal upfront costs, get pens, magnets, Post-Its, or calendars created, and include both your logo and links. Customers love free gifts, and when they reach for a pen or jot a note, they’ll remember your company. If you have a physical store, ensure that your storefront prominently displays your logo. Shop Front Fitters can help you create an attractive and memorable exterior for your business.
Advertising well doesn’t mean spending an exorbitant amount of money, as long as you wisely use what you have. What’s your favorite way to advertise?
