Advertising Questions...?

What are some good inexpensive ways to advertise my cleaning/errand running /shopping business?

First and foremost, get a business card made up. A MAJOR component of your new buisness will have to be sales, and the business card is the most important start in ANY commercial endeavor.

If you can afford it, have the card designed by a professional, or, at least, a talented graphic design student. The layouts offered to you by the guy behind the counter of the print shop will only be dull, uninspired, forgettable scrap paper. Still, even these are better than nothing.

These cards are to be offered to any and ALL potential clients. They can be left at places where they may do some good, such as bulliten boards, the counters of beauty salons, (with permission) spas, dry cleaners, etc.

They are cheap, disposable and replaceable. Make sure you have your name, nature of the business and pertinant contact information. Do not try to fill in empty space with rates, personal information or much else. The most important thing is to have a client contact you. THEN you can discuss details needed.

You can spend lots of money on newspaper, radio or television ads, but none of these provide cheap and PORTABLE messages that potential customers can carry with them.

I red the previous answer and agree 100%. Plus- for free get an account at craigslist.com.You can have a statement with relevant information about your business and post it every single day. It is easy to "copy and paste" all the time. Take some time to read some of the posts over there (similar business) to have an idea. Other idea is having a flyer let's say half the A4 page and put in the cars parked at the grocery stores or malls near the area you are targeting (I know, I know...but you need to do something right? Say something like " mention this ad and you will get 10% off in your service.. valid till (date)" or "you will have an hour of service for free (first time service only) etc. Good luck!!

I agree a good simple business card that give a general picture of what services you offer. Pass them out most people don't call but they pass them on to others and word of mouth is the best advertisement. Also make sure that you can say in 30 seconds when someone that you talk to asks what you do that you can say. If done correct then it lead to further conversation in regards your business.

As a business consultant if you e-mail me through here I may be able to give you some in sight.

Good luck

Good advice given so far...

- Don't forget to put your "benefit" statement on your business card: IE, "Why clean when we can do it for you?" Satisfaction Guaranteed!

- Put up fliers at local supermarkets.

- Advertise using free classifieds like craigslist or others
http://www.preferredpromoz.com/adlandpro...

- Consider getting coupons made up and passing them out to friends & family - make it worth their while by offering referrals fees.

Posting flyers in grocery stores, local restaurants, library or other places in your area that may have "community posting boards". Another option is to do a small ad in the Classified section of your local newspaper. Usually Sunday rates are much higher than weekday rates, so it might be affordable for you. Advertising once is rarely effective though, you would need to commit to several months to ensure people see it. Word of mouth is also very good, offer current customers a small discount if they bring you new clients. There are usually small free publications in most cities that have very reasonable advertising rates as well.

Hand Bills and Flayers distributed through newspaper vendor in your locality.