Ways to Use Inserts to Promote Your Business

by Kori Rodley Irons | More from this Blogger

In addition to "traditional" advertising like print ads, radio and television-many small businesses turn to "inserts" as a way of promoting their products and services. Inserts are not just those colored sheets of paper in the daily newspaper, you might be surprised how many different ways you can use the "insert" idea to promote your business.

Yes, inserts are those colored flyers that slip into your daily newspaper, and they can be incredibly successful and cost effective. But, there are many other opportunities for flyers and inserts including: conference and workshop registration packets, direct mail, collaborative marketing with other companies, school and church bulletins, etc. Some of these will be more expensive than others, of course. The difference between an insert and a typical print ad is that, in theory, your ad piece is more likely to stand out. Since it is on its own instead of tucked away within the pages of a publication, prospects are more likely to get their hands on it. Additionally, you have more space and freedom, can use color, coupons, photos, etc. that might be cost prohibitive in a typical box print ad.

Inserts do NOT have to be paper or flyers, however. It is becoming increasingly common for businesses to include samples or useful promotional products as inserts. These can be particularly welcome in conference and workshop goody bags and registration packets (or for fundraising events, community activities, auctions, etc.) If you have a product or a service that you can promote this way, you might consider using this type of insert as part of your marketing plan.

Of course, like all marketing efforts, it is tough to predict the outcome of using inserts. If you can, print a code or some way of keeping track of the insert on the insert itself. That way you can attempt to find out what the response is. Including coded coupons or a special discount is another way businesses can track insert response rates.

Also: You've Got to Try This Product!

Do You Have a Marketing Plan?

Learn more about Kori Rodley Irons

Bio has been removed by administrator

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger