The rave reviews about the ease of online advertising can crowd out some tried and tested methods of getting the word out that don't involve the internet. Check out this list of fantastic ways to reach potential customers that can all be implemented without logging on.

Classified Ads

These are great for giving contact information and a brief but informative tag line of what the business is about. People still flip to the classifieds for certain types of services so don't discount them all together.

Odd Spot Advertising

This includes pasting your message onto the inside of bathroom stalls at the local diner, buying ad space on disposal placemats at fast food restaurants, putting your face on a bus stop bench or maybe on the bus itself if you've got the budget. This type of advertising definitely gets attention and it catches people off guard, which is why it works.

Business Cards

More than never leaving the house without them, try slipping them into your outgoing mail, especially if they are backed with a calendar or some other useful information that is worth keeping.

Bulletin Boards

Leave messages on the church bulletin board or maybe even at businesses that offer complimentary services, with the right permission of course.

Radio

Radio gets results because it has a tendency to drive the message home like no other media, possibly because of the repetition. Be careful to match the station you choose to run your ads with your target audience though, since you would want to get the attention of people most likely to buy what you have to sell.

Trade Magazines

For more focused advertising check out trade magazines within your industry and get an ad size that you can afford. The readers of the trade magazine are already interested in what you have to offer, so half the battle is already won.

Flyers

They may be cliche but they are a cost effective way to canvas an area with your marketing message. Ensure that you adhere to the rules surrounding the distribution of flyers in your area though.

Postcards

The advantage of postcards is that the information is visible to everyone that touches it, so your message gets to the intended address, but it also touches several people along the way. They are relatively affordable and can be used to print informative articles or to push out a bold standalone message to promote a particular objective such as a sale or a special limited time offer.

Advertising is important to any business, but home businesses especially, because there is no walk-in traffic to keep it going. These traditional marketing methods will keep the message out there without breaking the budget or venturing into online media.

Learn more about this author, Natalia Jones.
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