advertising questions

[texas jim]

Looking for a little information on classified advertising feed back. i have noticed in my area that there are no ad,s for WSR. and well maybe its because it has poor results are maybe nobody out there is using them. any input would be most helpful.. thanks

[Chips_Away_Windshield_Repair]

Jim,
I placed an ad in The Tomball and Magnolia papers several years ago for just one month.......results......nada.....zilch.....waste of my $$'s.
May have to have better copy and run consistantly.

[John62]

Hi Graybeard,
No, advertisements are not only to bring in loads of work from day one, not even a month. The effect is more to build a recognized name, raising awareness in the area.

The effect depends very much on factors like;
-season
-contents -text wise
-lay out
-medium used to advertize
-number of copies
-area
-left or right page
-size of advert
-support through editorials
-how can people reply, is that made easy
etc. etc.
and last but not least ..... the time frame, keep on advertizing but don't expect work from it right away please.
It is not a waste of money, why do you think that the big companies do advertize eh?
Analyze your adverts, or have it done, change them and try again.

Don't forget; promotions, like advertizements, should always be in a MIX of various promotions. Don't just advertize.
Have a signwritten van or truck, a corportate identity, make response easy, use editorials etc.
I hope this is usefull ....

[texas jim]

Thanks for your replays on this subject.. I have found in the pass that it was very difficult to predict returns on advertising but that was a totally different business then wsr. but like john said cant hurt to get the name out. and copy is very important. as i found out with the web site. so i wonder if its not fleet or dealer type clients. then trade shows and flee markets are probably best??? again thanks

[John62]

Trade shows and other face-to-face promotions are a part of that mix of various promotions. And most effective.
It is the part in that mix that will take the most time, but it is effective.
You have your answer right away. You retrieve lots of relevant info. Easier and faster then any other way.
The message is; Don't be shy, go out and sell the service. Look around you while you visit contacts.
Make notes. Return another time if there is a 'no' today.
There is lots of work to be done and money to be made. No gain without pain.