Retailers Forum Sept. 2014 Sept 2014 | Page 96

FORUM WORKSHOP Forum Workshop Remember that restaurant it took us five years 9 9 to get around to trying? Thatʼs to be expected. So how can you tell if an ad is effective? You • have to be patient and methodical. If you have S narrowed the field to targeted publications, set E an advertising budget, and had an effective ad P T designed, then place your ad in your first choice E for at least six months. Donʼt think a 10% off M coupon on a $200 item (or even a $20 item) is B going to make people flock to your store. Be reE R alistic. If you sell fast food, half-off and two-forone coupons are likely to create some traffic, if 2 0 people read that magazine or newspaper. 1 4 Coupons are effective for in expensive or frequently used items, like food or household cleaning products. Display advertising works best for retailers and service businesses that want to build name recognition and a cus- tomer base. Feature a single item in your display ad, along with a memorable logo and a unique look designed to catch attention. The featured item might also have a “special price.” Gauge the reaction to your ad by keeping track of how many featured items you sell before and after you run the ad. Content (copywriting) and design (artwork and layout) work together to make an ad effective. A professional can help here. Not everyone who works at an ad agency is highly skilled. Find someone who is, who has a track record; then spend part of your advertising budget to have an effective ad (or series of similar ads) designed. Use your “look” consistently to build name recognition and an image. Coupon continued.. Protect Yourself and Your Business Affordable insurance for retailers and wholesalers • General liability • Cyber liability • Fidelity Bonding • Professional liability • Data Breach • Bundled Packages • Errors & Omissions • Workers Comp • Umbrella Policies > FREE OnlinE QUOTES < F O R U M Techinsurance was founded in 1977 and specializes in small businesses www. ProtectionPlans.net Techinsurance is America’s #1 Agent!