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April 21st, 2011
There are many ways to promote your business. You can work the online angle by starting a website, writing a blog, guest posting on related blogs, and joining forums and social networking sites. Or you can do it up old school by sending out mailers and hiring someone to hand out flyers and stash them under windshield wipers in parking lots. You could even spend a boatload of money on tried-and-true traditional means of advertising, such as radio, TV, and print ads. But if you’re going to get ahead and save some money, you are going to need to think outside the box. And one great way to squeeze in some local advertising for less is to utilize your car as a promotional item (bonus: your car can become a write-off!). There are several ways to do it.
1. Bumper stickers. This is sort of a minimalist approach, but if you’re worried about (1) defacing your car, or (2) spending too much money, then this is a good way to belay both concerns. You’ll get what you pay for, though, which is not much. However, you can print up a lot of bumper stickers with your logo and information and hand them out to friends, family, and customers so that they can become brand ambassadors and your efforts can cover a much larger area.
2. Window sticker. You’ve probably seen this type of advertising before. It’s sort of like a banner for your car. A custom sticker is created to cover your whole rear window. It is designed so as not to impair your rear view of the road (since that would be illegal) and it is a lot more attention-grabbing than a bumper sticker (anyone behind you cannot help but see it). Since these stickers are generally removable and restickable, you can take it off when you don’t want to advertise (like on date night).
3. Paint job. This is a pretty big step since it is permanent, but it will definitely allow you to claim your car as a work vehicle. You’d better be sure you want it, though, because it will cost you several thousand dollars to have it done right (or have it undone). However, it will definitely catch the attention of those who see it (custom paint jobs always do) and get the average member of your community thinking about your business. If you get a really artsy custom job (and pimp your ride with extras like an entertainment system and pop-up light show) you could even attend car shows to advertise.
4. Neon sign. You’ve seen them on cabs and pizza-delivery cars, so why not get a custom sign for your own car? This type of advertising may or may not be permanent (it’s really up to you how you want it attached), but it will really make your car stand out. Now, you won’t be able to fit as much information on this sign as you could on the side of your car, but you can almost certainly include a logo and a website or phone number.
5. Custom car makeover. If you want to go all out, you can make a total spectacle of your car. Think the Oscar Mayer wiener-mobile or the Red Bull car (the one with a can sticking out of the top, not the monster truck). By making a mock-up of your product and connecting it to your car, you can ensure that anyone within a couple of blocks will crane their neck for a gander.
Sarah Danielson writes for Kanetix, where you can shop around for car insurance and find a great deal.
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