Although we know that local small business owners depend on advertising for their business to thrive, you cannot deny the fact that people hate ads. Even though we all know that a business wouldn’t be possible without some form of advertising whether online or offline, we all have this secret wish that ads would just go away. Those who buy products would rather get the stuff directly, without buzzwords like “buy two, get one free” or “new and improved.” And those who sell would rather do it based on sincere trust rather than expensive advertising.
Unlike TV or radio, when it comes to business advertising on the internet, when someone sees some advertising message on their computer screen that suddenly pops up, and they’re not interested with it, they’ll simply close it. In television, the only way of skipping ads is to change the channel.
Most local small business owners still don’t get that the Internet is different when it comes to advertising. “TV/radio” methods and buzzwords tend to annoy Internet users so much that they will block your ad through their computer software, or worse, they will instantly develop an inner feeling of hate for your product or service.
So, here are the five essential rules of Business Online Advertising before you go out and start one:
1. Don’t spam. Spam is a serious matter and it has now become so intrusive and associated with viruses to the point that powerful software have been developed to filter out anything even those suspected of being spam. Plus, it’s illegal.
2. Don’t push it. People normally go online because they want to get information. Research showed that 80% of people search for information online before they buy a product or use a service. If you, as a small local business owner, intrude in an unwelcome way and start advertising your business, you’ll kill any chance of them buying whatever it is you’re selling and all your efforts just went down the drain.
3. Be honest. The thing about online advertising, words do get spread out like a wild fire. Talking about word of mouth in the offline world only 100 x faster. It is extremely easy to spread a word about a small business owner with a great product and honest advertising. The same thing happens when you have a bad product with dishonest advertising. And if you’ve got bad rep and you’re branding yourself and your business, that will be the end of your online business.
4. Be smart. People are just tired of the old, boring, poor quality online advertising. The only way to get through your potential buyers as a small local business owner is if your online message is smart, funny, witty or simply interesting in some way. People will not only enjoy reading or watching your message but will also be open to buying your product when they’re ready.
5. Be original. If you can come up with something fresh and interesting, you’ll definitely improve your chances of selling to your potential customers.
