Advertising From Home

So you've got a site, or a small business set up that you'd like to make some money off of. Let's hope that, first of all, you've taken a look at our articles pertaining to these subjects. Assuming you've done that, now what? You need customers, right? Well come with us as we explore the wonderful wide world of marketing!

First off, why should people be interested in your site or product? A lot of people think that the first thing a site or business needs is a flash logo and catchy slogan. False! Do not be caught up in other companies' mass media marketing schemes! The most important thing you need is high quality content and products? You business or site should practically sell itself, assuming people actually see it. Good products are the best kind of advertisement there is, when utilized properly.

Of course, that's all well and good, but people need to see your products first, correct? Keep in mind that when a business is first founded, in order to succeed, owners need to spend something like 80% of their time "getting the word out." Good, cheap first steps include business cards, fliers, and stickers. Fliers and stickers should be placed in legal, pre-approved locations only. A vandalism charge isn't goint to help your budding business at all. Local businesses will occasionally rent out space for you to place your business cards, and if you're going for a local crowd that can be an excellent idea.

Ready to take the next step? Look at your target audience. If your business is web-based, find out what sites your customers regularly frequent. See if these sites have any ad space to offer. We offer advertising here at My Friend Benjamin at extremely competitive rates, and also are willing to do free link exchanges, just take a look at our "Sponsored Links" page. If your business is more local, brick and mortar type, you still need to find your target audience. Look into local radio ads, sponsoring local sports teams, car decals, big flea markets and street fairs. Ads in local papers are often relatively cheap as well, and can reach out to local individuals. Remember properly managing your advertisement according to your target audience can save you a lot of money in the long run. Playing smarter, not harder, can help you go head to head with big marketing firms and large companies' big budgets.

Word of mouth, or so called "viral marketing" will most likely end up being your most valuable asset, however. This concept goes back to the importance of high quality products and content. If your work speaks for itself, then your customers will spread the word. Also try to work your business into every conversation you have. Carry your business cards with you everywhere, and hand them out freely. Get in touch with your local chamber of commerce. Go to local trade shows. Network, network, network. If you tell one person about your business, and they're impressed, they may go and tell their three friends. Each of their three friends may have four more. Just like that you've gotten the word out to seventeen different people, just by leavin an impression with one!

Maintain a business name, and a concrete, professional image, and the rest will follow, including the flash logo and catchy slogan. Happy advertising!

Until next time!

Team Ben