Over the past two decades, the growth of the Internet and increases in mobile device usage has changed the face of advertising. Traditional print, media and mail have been joined by an ever-expanding network of technology-based advertising venues that can bring your business to a wider audience.
1) Facebook
This extensive social network attracts users from all walks of life. Businesses can connect with these users for free using Facebook Pages or invest in pay-per-click (PPC) ads that appear in sidebars during browsing.
2) Twitter
Countless businesses use this microblogging network to reach new customers. Create a free account and instantly access a vast network of people whose interests will draw them to your business.
3) YouTube
Video advertising brings your business and its products to life. You can create short videos of your own or opt for one of the many advertising options that increase visibility across the YouTube site. Banners, overlays and pop-out ads can all appear on relevant videos as users watch.
4) Pinterest
This relatively new and fast-growing social network focuses more on images and videos than text, making it the perfect venue for showcasing products. Leverage the power of pin boards to create unique interactions between your company and its customers.
5) Google Ads
Google’s Adsense and AdWords both give businesses a way to connect with prospective customers through ads that appear in search results or on relevant websites. Become familiar with the techniques involved in this targeted form of keyword marketing and watch it pay off in the long run.
6) Location-based services
Grab the attention of the growing mobile market by putting your business on Foursquare, Google Places and other location-based listings or creating ads that display to those who are searching for nearby locations.
7) StumbleUpon
This “discovery engine” recommends websites and content based on users’ interest. The paid Discovery option puts your URL in the StumbleUpon stream and brings customers directly to your website with no ad in between.
8) Streaming video
TV ads have moved to the Internet where users can now stream their favorite movies and TV shows for free or by paying a small fee. Free services often run commercials either before or during a video, giving you the opportunity to advertise to an already captive audience.
9) Electronic Billboards
Old-fashioned static billboards are being replaced by electronic models in many places. These boards cycle through several advertisements in one location and remain highly visible at all times of the day and night.
10) Digital TV
The switch from analog to digital TV opened up a fresh set of channels for advertisers to take advantage of. If you’re already using TV ads, try expanding into this new venue for increased visibility.
More than ever, you’ll find potential customers focusing their attention on these and other modern marketing channels. Bringing your business into the technological age puts your brand where this active customer base already spends their time. The more visible you are across today’s growing advertising networks, the more people you’ll be able to attract to your company.
