by Kamila Love
How you view the power or importance of advertising may reflect the condition of your business.
Let’s use this example: A young lady has planned a beautiful wedding, her parents have gone in debt to pay for it, she has driven her fiance, her bridal party and the caterers crazy—EVERYTHING MUST BE PERFECT!!! The big day finally arrives, she is walking down the aisle and guess what?—there are no guests except for the staff. What happened? She did not advertise, meaning she sent out to few invitations.
Think about any business you have done or do, think of any skills you may have. How many of your family and friends actually know that you make the most awesome cakes ever or that you are an accomplished artist? Unfortunately too many of our people seem to think that if they toot their own horn they are bragging. All I can say to that is, flaunt your stuff and tell the world. Your family and friends are going to spend money regardless and if you truly are the best, there is no reason why they can’t or won’t spend it with you. Guess what though, they can’t spend any money with you if they don’t know what you do and that you are open for business. Think about this seriously, the skills you have kept hidden may make the difference between just having enough to pay your bills and to live what some people call the Life of Abundance.
The Black population is one of the largest groups of consumers. If we have money the whole world knows it, tax time, Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, don’t forget weddings, anniversaries and birthdays. If we have a reason, we will find a way to spend money. The money is out there and some of it has your name on it – so advertise.
Quick tip: Do not buy a gift if you can make a gift.
Example: You make scented candles, it’s Christmas and you work in an office with a few other people. Make some candles, put each one in a nice bag and place your business card inside bag. Give one package to each of your co-workers. Now you have promoted your business and probably saved some money too and shared an excellent product with others who will now either buy from you or share a story about your product with their family and friends. See how simple that was.
So here is what you do…
1. Be the best at what you do.
2. Invest in your skill or business. Look professional, save for the things you need (take a course, buy a piece of necessary equipment).
3. Tell the world (ADVERTISE) spend your money wisely.
And repeat steps 1-3 as often as necessary.
By the way, if your business is outside your home, then location is another factor, make sure it is easy for people to get to, drive in and out of and has lots of parking.
Back to advertising. Did you know that the Black community spending is anticipated to be $1.1 trillion in 2015 (marketplace.org). So this may be the year to make your mark. Black Friday the day after Thanksgiving is the make or break for a lot of businesses. Why? Because it is the official kick off of the holiday season spending. Will you get some of the money that is going to be out there?
What is your business? accountant, barber, car dealership, caterer, dentist, entertainment, health care provider, insurance, non profit, restaurant, transportation? If your business is not listed make sure you get the word out. Remember if no one knows you are open for business, they can not share their money with you.
Here are two suggestions on who you can advertise with….aah you are reading this paper, so it would make sense to place an ad with The Roanoke Tribune (540) 343-0326 and with The Focus magazine at info@thefocusmag.com, tell them, Kamila sent you. You just saw another quick example of how advertising works called Word of Mouth.
Wishing you success in your business. Advertise, you are worth it. Thank you and Twa-la.
