Re: Where to advertise emergency service?

> A magnet is a great idea but theoritcly, I have to send magnets to any
> house in the US.

> What's the local Chamber of Commerce?

> You mentioned interviews on radio or TV to promote. Well, how do I get
> one?
> How do I reach to the public TV? How does it work? Do I need to pay for
> the TV show production. How long it has to be?

> Again, what are these papaers and how do I get to them?

> I hearded of a guy that sent mugs to reporters at newspapers with a latter
> asking them to take a look at the service he provides. What I don't know
> if it worked out. Wat do you think of that?

> Thanks for so much great information Sandi.
> I just need to figure out now how to do what.

Magnets would be great but do the distribution through other channels as I suggested, not mailing directly...that'd cost a fortune!

The papers mentioned are small throw aways like Nickel Ads (available everywhere almost), or Thrifty Nickel, any small advertiser-oriented/classified ads sheets. They're often found in holders where other papers are sold, inside stores and cafes and so on. Just look...

The mug idea is old-hat and not very effective these days, in general, for the folks you'd be trying to reach.

I'm a bit surprised you don't know about the local Chamber of Commerce since most towns of any size have one, usually. Anyway, look them up in the phone book or contact your local visitor information bureau or some such...even City Hall...they'll put you in touch. Basically they are set up to promote local businesses, among other things. Businesses join (for a fee), get a listing in the Chamber Directory, network with other business folks in the area, attend monthly meetings if desired, and receive the Chamber Bulletin that has helpful promotional opportunities and other information. It all varies from place to place but that's the rough of it.

If your business qualifies as a public interest type of enterprise or a non-profit, you can contact any radio station and inquire about doing a PSA (Public Service Announcement). Odds are they'll jump at the chance. PSA's are usually ten to thirty seconds in length and you usually write and record them yourself (in their studio). No charge.

If your business doesn't qualify for a PSA, inquire about becoming a guest on a talk show. They're always looking for fresh angles to interest the local listeners.

Do basically the same thing for the television stations. I usually start with the public relations department. You'll be referred to other departments as they determine might be suitable.

The program, if it is on public television and is of interest to the community they serve, will be about 30 minutes in length. You provide the script, additional panel members, slides, videos, or whatever as well as do the moderating. You usually work one on one with a specific person.

There is no direct cost to you...they provide it all as part of their programming production. Usually you can get a tape of the program after it airs (ask) and these can often be duplicated and used for promotional purposes (again, get permissions in writing). Sometimes you'll be offered a longer or shorter time depending on what you have to offer.

Contact the local newspapers (paid circulation) by sending them a Press Release slanted to their readers interest. Make SURE it is NOT an ad...and send it to the appropriate editor (get the person's name and correct spelling of it from the receptionist). Lots of information on how to write and submit a PR on and off the internet.

I might suggest that you have someone go over any copy you wish to submit or letters you write for correct grammar and punctuation. Editors and producers are very picky about such things.

Now, get out there and start contacting folks...you never know what will just drop in your lap.