Advertising the Retail Business

Here's some quick hits for advertising your retail business as you get started:

• Advertise during peak seasons for your retail store(s). Advertising heavily for all the holidays - make a list of all of them and plan, plan, plan.
   
• Obtain a memorable URL and email address and include them on all marketing materials, sales slips, bags, tags, etc.
   
• Promote your business jointly with other professionals via cooperative direct mail.
   
• Advertise on the internet. You may be surprised how cost-effective it is.
   
• Write an ad in another language to reach the non-English-speaking market. Place the ad in a publication that market reads, such as a Hispanic newspaper.
   
• Distribute advertising specialty products such as pens, mouse pads, or mugs. Do an internet search for "promotional products".
   
• Create a direct mail list of hot prospects.
   
• Consider non-traditional tactics such as bus backs, billboards, and popular Web sites.
   
• Project a message on the sidewalk in front of your place of business using a light directed through words etched in a glass window.
   
• Consider placing ads in your newspaper's classified section?
   
• Consider a vanity automobile tag with your company name.
   
• Code your ads and keep records of results. You'll want to know what works and what does not.
   
• Improve your building signage and directional signs inside and out. Review your lease to make sure you can make changes.
   
• Invest in a neon sign to make your office or storefront window visible at night.
   
• Create a new or improved company logo or recolor your existing logo.
   
• Sponsor and promote a contest or sweepstakes.