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Post #13: Online Advertising: Does it Make Cents?


Is advertising worth it? If you are reading this, probably not. Most advertising is too costly and ineffective for a small business. There are a few exceptions, but it’s important to utilize the right method for you, below are my thoughts on some common advertising methods. 

Search engine advertising: Targets people who already want to buy, but too much competition and too costly if you are not using very specific long-tail phrases.

Display advertising: Good for people willing to put lots of time and effort to find the right platform to collaborate with probably. I’ve never clicked on a banner ad. This might work better for people looking for an older demographic.

Social media advertising: Good for people marketing to a younger demographic. Probably apparel or convenience foods work best for these spots. These will all be impulse purchases, so they have to be eye-catching and relevant among hundreds of similar ads. Good luck

Local advertising: Good for something already established and moving into the area, like a wifi company or new chain restaurant. Will let the people who can reach you know you are there, but you have to have a service they care about or need for this to be very effective.

Email advertising:  Good for no one ever. I have never met someone who would like things advertised in their inbox. I sign up for emails from specific companies if I want them (and that’s usually only if they are giving me free stuff or a discount).

So what can I do to increase my online revenue? Hundreds of mommy-bloggers have cracked the code: Affiliate marketing.
On your company blog, whenever listing how to make or do something, include links to suitable equipment for the job. A good example is a Humane Society making a list of what you should have to bring home your new pet; they could include links to examples, and make revenue when someone buys through those links.

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