What is the Best Ad for You?

Some people would say "any ad that gets your name out there" and while that is somewhat true you need to examine what you are actually wanting to accomplish with your ad. Are you having a sale or do you want Your Name to be "The One" that people think of when looking for your business? Now you need to set a budget. A one day sale ad run one time can cost as much as a series of ads depending on size,length or addition of color. Talking to a marketing consultant can give you insight as to what you will expect to spend.

Advertisements fall into three catagories:

1) Call to Action: This ad is for sales or special events. You want the customer to do something NOW. To get the customer's imediate action give them a reason to do so. Offering something Free is the best - even if it something small people love free. A great example of this is Sam's/Costco etc. If you have ever visited on a weekend you have seen the lines waiting for those free samples. Ten people qued up for a three cent sample BUT hey it's free; Next would be dollars off followed by a percentage. I say dollars of because lots of people relate to $25 is a half tank of gas or my morning coffee for a week vs. 25% off $100 being the same thing. 
2) Advetorial: This is where you write a column on different aspects of your business. For instance a mechanic could pen a column on why it is important to keep your tires properly inflated or your car well tuned. A doctor could do an "Ask The Doctor" question and answer column,q anything to make you the expert in your field.
3) TOMA - Top Of Mind Awareness: Repetition of ads. Ads with the same look, sound or message. Keep your name out there so people automatically think of you when they need your product.

So now you know your demographics, have set a budget along with knowing what kind of ad you need.

Next time we will cover effective ads and customer needs.

For a free consultation call 603.568.0426 or email [email protected]

Mike Cotton