How to Advertise Locally

For small businesses, the best place to start advertising is in your own neighbourhood. Advertising locally is so much easier and doesn’t need to cost a lot. Reach local potential customers in your area that you can then turn into loyal promoters of your business. Here are some tips on how to advertise your business locally:

1. Register your business on a local listing.

When people need a particular service, they look through local listings on the Internet or on a local directory for a business that provides that service. Local listings provide customers with a business' contact details and address or map of the business. Registering on a local listing not only advertises your business but it also makes it easier for potential customers to find you.

2. Spread your print.

Print is one of the oldest and most effective local advertising methods in the book. They can be in the form of business cards, flyers, or even brochures. They're affordable, easy to produce, and easy to distribute.

Get to know your neighbouring businesses and agree to both promote each other. Something as small as a poster, or a pile of flyers in multiple locations around your neighbourhood is a great way to increase awareness of your business or shop. It's a win-win for both of you! Make sure to include your company's contact details in your print so readers always know where to find you.

3. Entice passers-by with eye-catching signs.

Panels and signs are a classic local marketing tactic. They are cheap marketing tools that can be used for anything anywhere and anytime. Good signs build brand awareness, catch people's attention, and pique their interest. They inform people what kind of business you are and what kind of products and services you offer. Signs also entice people to browse through your shop. Even if they don't go to your shop now, your sign will be a geographical point of reference in case they decide to come back later.

Use banners to promote a new product or service, announce special sales, or even act as decoration for an event.

4. Wear branded clothing.

Another inexpensive but effective local advertising method is wearing branded clothing. Wearing a branded shirt or cap with your business' logo is an instant mobile advertisement. Have your employees wear their branded uniforms at work or as they go out for a delivery or an errand. Wherever you and your employees go, your branded clothing will be increasing your brand's visibility.

5. Participate in local fairs, festivals, carnivals, and other community events.

Taking part in local events not only provides good exposure for your business but it's also a good way to generate sales. Set up a table, sell your products, and make yourself known to the community. A small prize donation for the raffle or local fundraising goes a long way for awareness and likability of your company name.

Give away free samples of your product or free merchandise, and in exchange, have them list down their email address in a sign-up sheet. This way you'll be able to get in touch with people even if the festivities are over.

6. Host a local event

If it’s not enough participating at local events, you can always hold your own! Do what makes sense for your company, a demonstration, a workshop, or even a class. This gives your business a chance to showcase your products, services, and industry expertise, to help people learn, and to gain exposure. It also helps build your reputation and make you seem more credible and professional.

The main goal should be to get involved with the local community, get yourself noticed, and enjoy doing business locally :)