Many larger businesses hire advertisers to add to their companies’ profits, and if they fail, then the advertising agent’s job could be on the line. Companies just starting to implement advertising — including small businesses — offer more flexibility. Although small businesses don’t have as much money, they provide the option to really pinpoint their ads to the specific audience they want to reach.
It’s good to focus on the basics of advertising. Below, after doing some research, obtaining some online feedback from Microsoft’s Small Business Center, and getting advice from my friends in the industry, I’ve compiled a few tips and suggestions that may help with the advertising process. I’m no advertising expert, but these are some starting points based on past experiences that I hope will help you out!
So what are the top four tips for advertising your client’s small business?
1. Organize Your Advertising Campaign First and Do the Right Research.
Brainstorming is an essential aspect of coming up with great advertising ideas. There are two main types of ad campaigns.
The first type of ad campaign aims to increase sales by building the business’s brand up from a certain point. This can, for example, be an ad in a newspaper that is available on a daily basis. This may take a long time, though, as you will have to build your campaign.
The other kind of campaign involves making a sign or something else that will have an immediate effect. You want to make that prompt sale. This type of advertising campaign usually relates to something that is on sale or a special going on.
2. Pick Your Audience and Determine the Right Media as an Advertising Expert.
The advertising medium that you pick is important. Know your audience and whom you are targeting. The demographic is also important. The locations and ages of targeted individuals should be accounted for. Also, make sure the media outlet is in your price range. You will have to work with the media to reach your preferred audience.
3. Make Sure to Design an Original Advertisement and Be Creative!
As an advertising professional, you should have the right technology available at your fingertips. Brainstorm the right angle and what will get your advertising message across in the most media venues. Being up to date on the latest technology and programs can also help with this task. Once you have your ad, you can even use various programs to make it available to media bloggers, for example.
4. Examine Your Ad, Test It, and Then Put It Out There!
The advertising industry can be fickle, and you can never be sure how your ad will be received by the public. Before you fork over hundreds or even thousands of dollars, you want to make sure your ad can be profitable.
Try to run your ad during a less popular time slot and check out the viewership it reaches. If it seems to go over well, then place it in a more popular paper or on a well-known station. Once you’ve done all of that, make the final arrangements with the media outlet. Make sure to get your ad out to every appropriate media outlet you can reach.
As a result of following an organized method, you can really focus on your advertising strengths. On a final note, make sure you are able to be contacted in a convenient fashion as an advertiser. People will get the word out! Small businesses can be great launching points for your career. Good luck in your advertising ventures!
