[su_dropcap style=”flat”]A[/su_dropcap]DVERTISING IS one of the best ways to promote your business. The ad market is currently in a huge state of flux. It’s moved from the traditional realm of TV and radio to online platforms. This finally makes advertising an affordable and accessible option for your business. But, where do you start? Today, we’ll show you the best places to advertise your company, and how to get started. Trust us, it’s easier than you think, and it’s a powerful way to build your brand.
- Facebook – Facebook’s advertising platforms is one of our favourites out there. Why? Because it’s incredibly targeted and specific. Think about it. Facebook knows everyone’s location, demographics, and their interests. You can tap into this information to send adverts directly to your target audience. Want to reach 20-year-old guys who are into rock climbing? Simple. With Facebook, you only pay when someone clicks on your advert, so no penny is wasted. Head to their ‘advert’ section to get started. It’s one of the many effective ways to market your business on Facebook.
- Google – Google is perhaps the biggest and most established place for advertising. Tapping into their enormous amount of search traffic is very lucrative. Again, you can use specifics to target your core audience. With Google, you ‘bid’ on certain search terms. Using our previous example, you’d want your ads to appear when people searched for ‘rock climbing’. You’ll bid against other advertisers to get your ads to appear when people search for that keywords. Google AdWords also gives you the opportunity to advertise on established websites with banner ads.
- YouTube – You’ll have noticed the sheer number of pre-roll adverts on YouTube these days. Well, you could appear with one of those pre-roll adverts. In fact, it’s one of the most effective forms of marketing, as viewers are forced to watch the first few seconds. Of course, you’ll need to hire a video production team to help you create your advert. But, it’s money well spent, if you ask us. You’ll set up and monitor the entire campaign through Google too, so it all feels familiar.
- Magazines – Although magazines are often described as traditional or outdated media, we still like their advertising potential. Why? Because people do still read magazines. And, best of all, the right people read magazines. People who still read mags are the most dedicated, loyal, and passionate people in that niche. Advertising here is advertising directly to the core audience. It’s also a chance to get creative, and establish your brand with large designs.
- Sponsored content – Despite all these opportunities, advertising is still at a cross-roads. One of the alternative plans is sponsored content, or ‘native ads’. This means teaming up with an established publisher, and creating content that subtly advertises your product. You’ll see these all over Buzzfeed, The Guardian, Vice, and The New York Times now. It’s a chance to build an identity around your brand, and get access to huge readerships (without being intrusive).
That’s all for today, folks. Have you had any experience or success with advertising recently?