TELEVISION
Promotion through local televisions can be profitable at most times or maybe not on some occassions. It is a risk you have to take. However, TV ads is the most common traditional way to market your business but it is also the most expensive. There is the cost of producing the TV ad, purchase TV spots and specified air time, then select the channel you feel your target market is watching. Television Ads reach is broad across the general population even when utilizing the selection process of specialized channel complete with demographic and statictics. One of the major drawbacks we see with TV ads when promoting your web site is that the viewers are not necessarily in front of their computer while watching TV. Therefore, they would not necessarily remember your web site address once the TV ad has finished. Having a very catchy TV ad will definitely help, but you would have to purchase a package media blitz which bombarde viewers with your ad(s) on a constant basis. Our recommendation is to weigh the value, cost and return on investment on TV ads against pay-per-click marketing campaigns which can provide a much more specific reach to your specified online target market.
RADIO
Radio Ads have worked great in the past. Perfect example is Amazon.com Radio Ad which used to be on every radio station practically every 5 minutes. The Radio Ad promoted how large their online warehouse of books used to being the size of multiple football fields. However, that was at least 10 years ago. Today's radio now includes satellite radio, online radio and its syndication and wavelength reach does not go as far as it used to be. However, WebSiteCenter.com can testify with its current use of Radio Ads as part of the company's marketing campaign. Even with its limited use, it has worked somewhat because we have had customers call the office confirming hearing the ad and some have signed up for a web design package or another. Although our radio is somewhat limited to one-week per month at 75 spots - and not always at prime time - we can't say for sure whether we would do it again. Another note to remember is that the Radio Ad's reach is only local. If you're product is national, local radio ads will not be the route we would choose.
Print is expensive. It kills trees. Outdated. Becoming less and less used by businesses as part of their marketing campaign. Besides from the use of business cards, print is specific to certain industries - i.e. Real Estate and grocery stores due to coupons. Avoid using print as much as possible. Stay GREEN.
ONLINE NEWSLETTER
Online newsletter can be very effective. Only if you're sending these newsletters to either your customer base or riding on someone elses newsletter who is sending it to your potential target market segment. Email blasting newsletters through your local computer or via web hosting server is NOT RECOMMENDED. The repercussions can be overwhelmingly disasterous to the longevity of your business. That is why we always recommend riding on a reputable company's email newsletter utilizing a reputable email marketing service. NEVER DO THIS ON YOUR OWN. IT COULD MEAN THE END OF YOUR ONLINE BUSINESS.
OTHERS:
Direct Mail
Only use this method if you are sending it out to your current customer base. Other than that, it is a waste of money, time, trees and effort.
Billboards
Very expensive but very effective. However, you cannot just have one - you would need to purchase at least 4-10 throughout the city in order to make a significant impact. It will also have a significant impact on your budget.
Door-To-Door
Very effective, time consuming and require a lot of personnel. The liability can be high due to safety of employees and/or residents or customers. This will require control and lots of training towards employee conduct, ethics and conduct.
Web Design Resources: Important Notes to Consider
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):Get Straight Answers
Why should I select your company to design my web site?
WebSiteCenter.com has the experience, expertise and the extraordinary service that is abundantly provided by motivated staff dedicated to your personal success with your online business. Here are highlights for your consideration:
Business Center: Start an Online Business
Scenario: Your self-employed and in need of cash infusion; you have a great idea, now turn it into a business reality. At WebSiteCenter.com Business Center, we've done some research for you starting with information on business plans; funding for existing business or brand new start-up; review our list of links about the new Federal Stimulus Plan targeted for small businesses.
