Are flyers an effective method to advertise a small business?

[Michael]

I have a small moving business and I am considering using flyers to get my name out.

[Peter Nikolow]

Well Michael the problem with flyers is that you throws flyers to non-moving persons that don't need your services.

You need to focus on online presence. Try Google AdWords or publish an ads in local newspapers. You also can get registered on Google Locals and you can register in http://www.mymovingreviews.com/ too.

[Fanaticaldog356]

Flyers can be good if they are placed in the right locations, and have a compelling call to action.

Think of where you are likely to find people who are moving. What other services do they need when they are moving? Teaming up with other existing businesses that those same people will use can help you find a consistent customer base.

People move when they buy or sell a house, so realtors are a natural partner for you. They move when they get married, so a flyer at places that the couple will go before the wedding is also good, like the health department (blood tests) , post office (change of address) or other wedding related locales. People move for jobs, so if a local employer is hiring, ask if they will let you leave some flyers for new employees.

Be sure your flyer contains what the buyer will want to know about you. Having a photo of your crew at work, showing your vehicle, and how you package things up. List all the benefits that are important to the mover, like that you are insured and bonded, licensed (if necessary), list the packaging materials used, and that you do short or long distance moves.

Have a testimonial or two from satisfied customers. Then have a great call to action...a compelling offer that will make them want to call, like free estimates, $50 off, 10 free boxes with packing peanuts, whatever it is that you do or use. Give them a reason to call or check out your website. Have a tear off tab on the bottom that has your company name, offer, phone number on it. (Remember, people might not recall what they tore it off of, so have enough detail to help them remember.) Or, have a place on the flyer to put some business cards for them to take.

Side note: You can often get loads of bubble wrap, cardboard boxes, packaging peanuts, Styrofoam and other packaging materials for free or very low cost from your local municipal recycling center just for asking.

In addition to the flyer, get a two sided business card done up that you can give to the realtors, post on bulletin boards at city buildings, etc. You can also have them pinned right to the flyer for people to take a reminder with your information. Be sure that compelling call to action is on the back.

[ansh]

Yes in email preferably. Good Luck!!