1.20.2016

2016's CTA Alternatives for Your Outdoor Signs

For this run of articles we have focused on what other things one can promote with their signage when not promoting offers or the business in general. It can sound a little non-sensical for some, but for those who don't operate 24/7/365 or only have peak seasons, spreading good will or relevant information is often smarter than promoting offers that are not ready to be fulfilled.

Other times, it could be a case of the, "just a moments," for some businesses who are still putting the finishing touches on their marketing plans for the new years.

Either way, below are a few suggestions for those who are either on break or are not quite ready to bust out the new round of offers.

Review Websites

Local and small businesses can live or die based on the local reviews they get. It is often a necessary evil, but often a business's best bet is to take control of of those conversations before it overruns the brand. The big review sites are typically the ones from big digital sites such as search engines Google and Bing and social media stalwart Facebook. Niches such as Yelp!, TripAdvisor and Angie's List often also play a part.

When the reviews are good, encourage more. When they're bad, address them directly and turn those negatives into positives.

And in most cases, they have a page for your business regardless of whether you placed it there.

General imperatives aside, using your signage to direct where your business is most active in the sites not only encourages reviews, but show's you're willing to hear and interact with viewers. Most importantly, it shows your customers you are not afraid of what folks say about your business, and that in itself speaks volumes.

Social media properties

Speaking of social media stalwarts such as Facebook, for those businesses active on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Reddit, and Google Plus can take their off-peak time to suggest customers and passers by to check out their content, communities, and conversations. The signs are great to help propel the conversation and attract visitors.

Your causes

Many businesses typically spend a good share of their marketing time helping non-profits and good causes. The impact from the growth and development of such relationships have incredible intrinsic value that can often have benefits that stretch beyond accounting ledgers.

Your good news

New hires? Anniversaries?, Interns graduating?, New partnerships? All of these activities can happen during off-peak and are worth touting about on your signage. It's not too bragadocious and its relevant to your business. Enjoy posting them and telling the area nearby.

The message continues

The business cycles go up and down. The message will always remain a constant. Don't be afraid to use the signage to spread the news. It works 24/7/365 regardless. 'Might as well keep putting it to good use.