Many small businesses have a very small budget when it comes to advertising, and that can hold them back. In an ideal world, we would be able to hire a top advertising agency to help us out, but a start-up budget rarely has that sort of money available. Doing it yourself with not a lot of money is not impossible, but it takes a lot more consideration as to where and how you spend that money for the greatest exposure and benefit.
Before the internet, adverts in the phone book or the local newspaper were the standard ways of getting your message to potential customers, as well as traditional methods such as flyers and posters. These days, even the smallest of businesses are aware of the importance of search engine optimization (SEO) and the need to rank highly on Google, but the reality is that they also need to focus on more local methods of advertising.
Traditional print advertising
While this is not as popular as it used to be thanks to the increase in digital marketing, traditional print advertising should not be forgotten about, or disregarded. Local newspapers usually offer a selection of advertising formats, from box adverts and inserts to small business features. The latter can be particularly useful, as they allow you to go into a lot more detail about the service or the goods that you are offering, and gives potential customers a chance to get to know you a little better.
You may also want to consider direct mail or flyers printed by someone like wdm online posted through doors and mailboxes. While many will throw them away without looking, there will be some that take notice and keep you in mind, which is precisely what you are looking for.
Banners and Flags
The whole point of advertising is to make sure potential customers know that you exist. It’s all well and good having adverts all over the internet, but sometimes, a big old flag or some banners outside of your business and, if your council allow it, in public areas, showing that you are there and ready for your customers can be incredibly useful. While it might be a bit of an expense start with, they will last for a long time and draw passing customers in.
Social Media
Advertising on social media network sites such as Facebook and Instagram can not only reach a vast range of people very quickly, but it is also free or can be done on an extraordinarily low budget. Adverts allow you to specify your audience and location and really focus in on your target market. You can go even further by posting in local selling or networking groups.
Get involved with the local community.
Getting involved with the people in your local areas and good causes is an excellent way of getting your business name out there. Whether it is sponsoring a local kids soccer team, or a school gardening project, they often have an opportunity for your name to be printed somewhere. You’re not only doing something good, but you will be recognised for it as well!
- This post has been written by an outside source – Please see disclosure policy.
