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What are the advantages and disadvantages of different types of advertising media?

Last Updated: August 09, 2007

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Various types of advertising can be more or less advantageous to a business depending on geographic area, target customer demographics, the product(s) and/or services being sold, and the competition. In all cases, the business owner should carefully track and evaluate all advertising to ensure that the benefit is worth the expense.

Radio: Radio advertisements are relatively inexpensive ways to inform potential local customers about your business. Mid-to-late week is generally the best time to run your radio ad.

Television: Television allows access to regional or national audiences but may be more expensive than other options.

Print: Materials printed in newspapers, consumer and trade magazines, or flyers allow you to explain in a little more detail what, when, where, and why people should buy from you. Be sure to include your logo on all printed materials.

Direct mail: You can send letters, fact sheets, contests, coupons, and brochures directly to new or old customers on local, regional, or national levels.

Electronic: Company Web sites can provide useful information to interested consumers and clients. Password-protected areas allow users to more intimately interact with you. Advertisements allow broad promotion of your products. Direct e-mail contact is possible if you have collected detailed customer information.

Word of mouth: Word of mouth depends on satisfied (or dissatisfied) customers telling their acquaintances about the effectiveness of your products.

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