You have worked your butt off trying to get everything ready for your BIG launch, and now it’s go time! Now, the time has finally come for you to transition into the final phase of product/service to customer/client, and you are ready. This is where advertising/marketing comes in! Advertising/marketing is the means by which you position and communicate your products and/or services in a way so that potential customers will find, want, or recognize a need for what you have to offer. The key to good advertising is identifying your potential customers and your target market. We have come up with 15 ways to get everyone buzzing about your new business, and while there are definitely more ways to do this, these will work very well for your business launch.

These 15 advertising/marketing guide will assist you in determining when, where, what, and how to advertise and market your business. Of course you do not have to use them all at once. Try using them over time, and subsequently based on the result (or non result) you get, choose the forms of advertising that work best for your business. Also, in your communications through whichever methods you choose, maintain a clear and consistent message as well as a consistent company image – branding. Here are our 15 ways to let your ideal customers know you have launched your new business and it’s time for them to perform for your bank account:

1. Word-of-Mouth

Shout it from the roof top! Word-of-mouth advertising is not going anywhere. In fact, it is one of the best advertising method for new and small businesses, because: a) it is free, b) sincere, c) believable, and d) unsolicited. Be sure the “word” is favorable by building up a good reputation. Be professional, meet deadlines, keep appointments, and do not accept more work than you can deliver. Good business practices and friendliness will enhance your business and make people want to return – in addition to referring you to others. Building a reputation takes time however, so you will need to use other forms of advertising as well.

2. Business Cards

Whip out those beautiful, presentable business cards and let it rain! 
A professionally printed card is an asset to any business. Include your name, business name, address, phone number, social media links, products or services you provide, and an attractive logo – if you have one. Give cards to interested people you meet. They may not buy your product or service now, but may refer someone to you at a later time. So make an impression in that initial connection; something that they will take away and remember about you, such as “very professional”, “easy-going and sincere”, and/or “very personable.”

3. Letterhead and Envelopes

Let the communications begin! Printed letterheads used to be a must, but in today’s digital world has far less need. However, you should still have a small supply of stationery on hand; for a proposal, thank you letter, or any of many other uses. Also, you may want to send out a few letters along with your brochures to select officials who have the ability to impact your business positively, letting them know you are open for business, and welcome their feedback. Letterhead stationery is often necessary when purchasing materials and equipment from wholesalers and suppliers for your business as well. Letter heads are way more professional looking than no letterhead at all, and when done right, they can improve the perspective of your business.

4. Brochures

A brochure can be small, inexpensive, and attractive. Get advice from a printer. You may want to hire a graphic designer to help with the layout of artwork, text, and lettering. The level of sophistication in the design of your brochure is directly related to; who your customers and potential customers are, the industries they are in, and the positions your contacts hold. And although professional and polished should be the goal, it is worthless without substance, so spend time getting the text right – clearly and succinctly expressing what you do, how you do it, and why they should buy from you.

5. Direct Mail

Mailing brochures or letters to businesses or individuals is a great way to make potential customers aware of your business; especially when you’re just starting out. Periodical updates and notices throughout the year can also serve to remind them that you’re still there. Mailing can be expensive and should be weighed with the other options when you decide on your advertising campaign, but since you are a new launch, you want to use as many options as possible. Again while technology has provided other options, direct mail still hold value based on who your customers are, and how they prefer to be reached. Also, consider providing a prepaid response card in your direct mail, which would provide you with some insight as to: a) whether that customer likes to receive direct mail, b) whether they found it informative, and c) whether they have comments or suggestions. A grand idea if you can afford to, is to include a souvenir in your direct mail to them – such as a pen with your logo. This will no doubt increase your chances of getting a reply from them. So don’t discount this option in your initial launch phase. If nothing else, you could gain valuable feedback from those response cards you sent. Yes, we have technology and the good ole Internet, but there is nothing better than giving your potential customers something tangible to hold.

6. Bulletin Boards

Post professional-looking brochures, flyer’s, or business cards on public bulletin boards in restaurants, grocery stores, laundromats, apartment complexes, schools, or anywhere visible to your target market. It’s old school but still work in certain local regions. We know! We have used it and it works!

7. Newspapers

Contact local editors and tell them about your new service or product. An editor may want to do a feature story, especially about your grand opening. An article can be free advertising and may be more effective than a large, paid Ad. Be sure to thank the editor if he or she runs the story. Getting space in a newspaper may be easier if you can tie into the activities of a charitable organization, or a community activity. Include a black-and-white picture and news release.

8. Classified Ads

Placing 
Ads in local newspapers and shoppers guides are appropriate for many businesses. You’d be very surprised by who still reads these, many times passing along what they have seen to family members and friends. This will cost a bit of money, but you should also have an option of 1/4 page, 1/2 page etc. instead of a full page Ad. If you are a local brick and mortar business, try to work out a cost with them so you do not have to miss out on what could be your biggest opportunity to make a huge splash – a bigger impact.

9. Portfolio

Of course if you’re just launching you would not have past projects to use for a portfolio; however, we are listing it here because it is one of the most valuable and vital tool in a business owners’ arsenal, and we want you to start building your portfolio as soon as you’ve signed up your first clients. You could also think about a giveaway, where a few customers receive a different good or service you provide in exchange for a review, and also so you’ll have that to start building your portfolio. Be sure to put some effort into building a collection of your best work. You may want to include a resume and list the advantages or special features of your business. Include those letters/reviews from satisfied customers, and be prepared to suggest those past customers as references. In addition to your website, you can also setup your portfolio on your social media sites using several different features.

10. Shows or Displays

Displaying some of your work in a public library or bank may be appropriate depending on your type of business. Along with your display, be sure to also have business cards available for people to take as well. Ensure the display is secure so you do not lose valuable merchandise.

11. Other Businesses

It is never too early to begin aligning with businesses that complement yours. Seek out to make those strategic alliances and work at advertising in their business and vice versa. Cooperative advertising usually benefits both businesses – immensely.

12. Directories

There are countless directories online to choose from, but the ones that matter most are the ones your customers use. If you don’t know, ask people who fit your ideal customer type, what their favorite search engine is, and how they find businesses they need. You may also find the top directories have a spot for the customer to review your company. Welcome it, and use the service to your advantage by asking your customers to review you. Believe it or not this will help you to trend higher on the search engines, and don’t forget to link your website to that directory page. Many times these directories will allow you to post a picture. If you don’t have a storefront then post your logo and make sure your information stays current.

13. Local Radio and Television Stations

This can be quite intimidating especially if you’re introverted and haven’t done any interviews before, but it is definitely an avenue you want to take advantage of. You can leave this for a later date, and use smaller platforms in the meantime such as Podcasts that align with your business niche. Some radio stations have local talk shows where you can be on air instead of on television – out of view, while still getting your business out there. When you are ready, call up the directors to see if they are interested in discussing your business, or a topic relative to your business industry. You can also purchase radio or television Ad time, which can prove expensive, but worth researching to know the pricing in your area – especially when it can be tied into some news feature or special event. There are many radio stations out there — especially now that there are web-based stations — so do your homework and position yourself effectively.

14. Local Organizations

Joining local organizations such as your Chamber of Commerce, provide a good opportunity to network and make valuable contacts. People like doing business with people they know! By participating in community activities, you increase the visibility of yourself, and subsequently your business. Remember, you are your business! Back then you could have a storefront with employees and no one even knowing who the business owner is – unless they do some research, and they did well! Today though, if you are not Google, Microsoft, Ford, or one of those big companies, you have to get yourself out there not just representing your business but being your business. We are in the age of Know. Like. Trust. Do business with. – in that order.

15. Networking

A network is a collection of acquaintances and business peers you depend on for information, services, support, and access. Network relationships are based on mutual and professional respect for the other’s ability to help when needed – as needed. There are many networking groups in most cities, but you will need a modest budget to attend their events to network effectively. Not every networking group is as valuable as another, so you need to do some homework to see what community is best for you. Learn as much as you can about potential customer habits, what types of events they attend. You may also want to craft a rich elevator pitch that represents your business and defines your products/services in 30 seconds or less. Also, always be on the lookout for collaborative partners where a mutually beneficial relationship can be forged to provide you both with value-added services for your respective customers. Remember that conducting research can pay-off immensely.

So there you have it! 15 ways to let your ideal customers know you have launched your new business.

Happy launching, and cheers to your business success🍷

With love, gratitude, and empowered attitude,