Online Advertising versus Old School Advertising
So you know that advertising should be an integral part of your marketing plan. Why? Because it generates awareness and interest in what you’re selling — which means more potential customers for your product! (And yes, okay, I would say that, wouldn’t I?) But do you wonder which is best? Online ads or old school local paper and leaflet drops. Here are some differences between the two:
Online advertising is often more cost effective than traditional advertising
Online line ads allow your businesses to target specific audiences with laser precision. This means that none of your ad spend is wasted on people who just won’t buy your product. Think about how much you pay for a local magazine ad — and then consider how many people might actually act on it. You can eliminate this problem with e.g. Facebook ads. Online ads are often a lot cheaper than you’d think too.
Online advertising reaches a larger audience than traditional advertising
When it comes to reach, there’s no question that online advertising trumps traditional methods. After all, there are billions of people using the internet every day, and a well-placed ad can reach customers all over the world with just a few clicks. Facebook alone is the world’s ‘third biggest country’.
Online advertising can be more creative than traditional advertising
While traditional advertising was/is very creative, online advertising has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for creativity. From interactive video ads to creative use of social media, there are now more ways than ever to reach your target audience with a message that stands out. If you’re looking for a more creative way to advertise don’t be afraid to think outside the box — or outside the banner ad.
Online advertising is more effective than traditional advertising
Research suggests that we’re actually more likely to pay attention to online advertising than traditional offline ads. One reason for this is that online ads are usually more targeted and relevant to our interests. We’re also more likely to encounter them at a time when we’re already in the market for a particular product or service. In other words, we’re more likely to see an ad for a new restaurant when we’re already searching for places to eat online, and we’re more likely to click on an ad for a sale on jeans when we’re shopping for clothes. Whereas offline ads tend to be more general and less targeted. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the advertising around you, just remember that some of it was actually designed specifically for you. And it’s probably more effective than you think!
Has this got you interested in the power of online ads? If so, let me know in the comments!