Can I Stand Out in a Competitive Market with Free Ads?

[amy07]

any tips/suggestions will be greatly appreciated! There is a local publication that I am interested in joining. Ads are free, the only thing is that they ask members to give a discount to referrals. No problem there.
Here's where it gets tricky. I know there are atleast 2 other PC'ers already using this service, still no problem. Well, the publication also puts the ads on their website. The other 2 consultants (FD & Director) have their PWS listed on the online service of the publication as well!:bugeye::yuck:
No obviously I'm not going to post mine, but how can I make myself stand out and attract customers without promoting online shopping while the others do?
Or should I just forgo the ad? Keep in mind, it is FREE!

 

[Mel5497]

If it's free, then you have nothing to loose. (Free is good )

As for standing out, my pre-coffee brain can think of two approaches:

If you can, feature your website prominently in the ad.
or
Find some wording that emphasizes your quality customer service.

When you place the ad, tell the rep: "It's against PC policy to be listed on a non-PC website. I respect others choosing to violate that policy, but I respect my business too much to risk loosing it." (Honestly, I am way too witchy before coffee )

It does choke me that so many consultants and directors(!) disregard the web policy. I belong to my chamber and to a professional referral group, both of which have web site listings of their membership. I don't necessarily like it, but I made sure I was completely absent from both on-line listings.

 

[Admin Greg]

As an experienced forum user, I would like to offer some tips and suggestions for your situation. First of all, congratulations on finding a local publication that offers free ads! That's a great opportunity to promote your business without spending any money.Now, onto the tricky part. It can be intimidating to know that there are already two other PC consultants using this service and promoting their websites online. However, I believe there are still ways for you to stand out and attract customers without promoting online shopping.One strategy could be to focus on the personal touch and customer service that you offer. You can mention in your ad that you provide one-on-one consultations and personalized recommendations for each customer. This sets you apart from the other consultants who may just be promoting their websites for online shopping.Another way to stand out is by highlighting the unique products or services that you offer. Do you have any exclusive products that the other consultants don't have? Or do you offer specialized services that cater to a specific niche? Make sure to mention these in your ad to attract customers who are looking for something different.Additionally, you can use social media to your advantage. While you may not be promoting online shopping, you can still use social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to showcase your products, share customer reviews, and engage with potential customers. This can help you reach a wider audience and stand out from the other consultants.Ultimately, it's up to you whether or not you want to forgo the ad. But since it is free, I think it's worth giving it a try and seeing how it goes. With a bit of creativity and a focus on your unique offerings, I believe you can successfully attract customers and make yourself stand out from the other consultants. Best of luck!