5 Alternative Advertising Opportunities You May Be Missing
When it comes to advertising, it’s so hard to stand out. Everyone and their cousin’s accountant is on Google Ads and Meta—and new ad platforms pop up every week. AI chatbot ads are on the way soon to shake things up all over again.
Advertising is more competitive than ever, forcing many small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) out of this pay-to-play avenue for self-promotion. But the industry has more options than you may think, and it's up to your marketing team or agency to get creative with ad outlets.
5 Effective Ad Alternatives
There are many alternatives to typical options like Google Ads and billboards that can have a significant impact on your results. Here are five advertising opportunities that you may be missing in your annual marketing plan.
1. Car Wraps and Automotive Signage
Car wraps, or vinyl decals that cover a vehicle with graphics, are a solid one-time investment with potentially long-term benefits. The price of a car wrap is largely dependent on the size of the vehicle, the type of vinyl used and the complexity of the design, typically ranging from $2,500 to $6,000. For context, a classic billboard—high in the sky and completely static—can range from $1,000 to $10,000 and beyond, depending on its location. A billboard on wheels that’s right beside you at the red light is far more attention-grabbing, especially if you include other add-ons like magnetic signage or other accoutrements.
Note: although car wraps are personalized, it's important to remember that rebranding can be difficult and that the results are hard to measure. You may also face roadblocks because some areas have regulations on vehicle advertising, often imposing fines. Research local laws before getting a wrap or placing signage on a car.
2. Handwritten, Printed Messages
Nothing is more personalized than a handwritten, printed notes. Many companies have long forgotten about traditional advertising and marketing solutions, but studies show that direct mail outreach can be 30 times more effective than digital and email outreach. Handwritten letters make customers feel valued and have a higher opening rate, higher response rates, and a measurable ROI. However, it can be time-consuming, and the cost is higher than traditional printed mailers. You'll have to factor in the expense of paper, envelopes, ink and postage.
What your number-cruncher can’t factor in, however, is the indescribable feeling of getting a personal note in the mail. While handwritten or “handwritten” (as in notes that are printed as to look like they were scribbled by a human hand) may be more expensive, you can’t put a price on the extended brand loyalty a customer experiences from a special, personalized reachout.
3. Local Retail Partnerships
Local retail partnerships can help businesses reach new customers while sharing resources such as marketing budgets, technology and staff with others—ultimately saving costs. This form of advertising runs the gamut on marketing channels, from email campaigns to social media to events. When it feels difficult to get your product or service noticed, strategic local partnerships can be exceptionally effective.
No matter how you choose to partner with a local retailer, the relationship allows you to reach their existing customer base while building your own customer loyalty. Whether you choose co-sponsored events, co-marketing, cross-promotion, referrals or product collaboration and bundling, partnerships are an excellent way to grow your business. Partnering with someone else doesn't come without risks, though. When both businesses invest in your marketing campaigns, you risk wasting money if your partner’s audience overlaps with yours significantly, the other organization puts in minimal effort or your partner lacks strong marketing skills.
4. Stickers, Posters and QR Codes in Public
You can use posters, QR codes, stickers and even table tents in restaurants as a form of advertising in public. This method is extremely cost-effective and usually comes with a high ROI. Stickers and posters enhance visibility and elevate brand status. Use bold, eye-catching designs to attract attention and create a connection with foot traffic. QR codes allow potential customers to instantly access information about your business and are a more interactive and direct form of marketing compared to other methods. They’re super trackable, too—not to mention even more geotargted then a Google Ad.
On the flip side, while QR codes are quick and easy, they may not be effective if a location doesn't have Wi-Fi or if the customer is in a hurry and doesn't have time to pull out their phone. Stickers and posters that do not have scannable, trackable elements end up being less visible billboards, meaning their ROI is hard to determine. Even if visibility is your goal, you still need to be able to measure your success.
5. Wearable Advertisements
Chances are, you see people every day wearing a hat or shirt with some sort of logo or slogan. Ever seen a Coors hat? A John Deere t-shirt? Wearable branded swag provides a valuable way to get customers' attention and showcase your brand. “Buying company shirts” sounds like an expense, but “getting wearable ads” sounds like an investment. Not only do they empower you to reach new customers wherever your current customers tread, they also build brand loyalty in the customer who’s wearing them. Small billboards with legs are good for business.
This is all aside from the obvious fact that branded swag—when not given away for free—can also generate income, making them more powerful in some ways than other advertising avenues. Even so, these items take time to create and may not as have as much personalization as some digital options. Cost can vary widely, depending upon the supplier used and the amount of the product ordered.
Need a New Advertising Partner?
In today’s digital marketing landscape, some advertising avenues are a must, like Google Ads and Meta. Unfortunately, that means everyone is doing the same thing. If you want to get ahead of the curve, you have to be incredibly creative and innovative—or get your brand onto alternative ad platforms.
If you’re not sure which advertising strategy is right for you, or you want to hear even more options, let’s chat! We can elevate your brand to the next level with strategic alternative advertising opportunities. All you have to do is click to get started!