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They say that a picture is worth 1000 words, and in the world of the Internet, where your web host charges you…
Have you ever noticed that no matter which "advertising guru" you listen to, something always seems to be missing? That's because something IS missing! Advertising is a mix... not a one-item shopping list. There is a combination of elements at play that make advertising work. Leave one of those elements out and you are likely to see poor results.
Almost everyone on the 'Net is familiar with ezine article promotion. However, Business Essentials subscriber Steve Watson (of Watson's Streetworks http://www.watsons-streetworks.com) has found a way to get some "free ink" in national paper magazines, too. No... not press releases - full-length articles.
When you mention the word "branding" most people automatically think of USP (unique selling proposition). The overall - and incorrect - perception of a brand is that it simply consists of the statement you use to define what you do. Slap your USP on every advertising piece that goes out the door and - tah dah - you're branded! Not even close.
You have to be in the right frame-of-mind to work at home successfully. You must be able to "go with the flow" when the winds of business change. Keeping things fresh and different will help you stay ahead of your competition, and to prosper in the long run.
Developing an effective ad takes a lot of steps. Most of them are pretty well known. Develop an interesting headline, support your headline with benefit-filled copy, close with an offer they can't refuse, etc. Rarely, however, do I see mention of a very important item. The call for action statement.
