Brochures or flyers <-> Most if not all word-processing programs are capable of producing attractive flyers and multi-fold brochures; a typical brochure is an 8.5” X 11” sheet folded in thirds. If organized and designed properly, brochures can contain a great deal of information both inside and out, flyers, front and back, and both have become the most popular and easiest methods of advertising.

Direct mail <-> Mail you send directly to your customers usually is focused on how your product or service meets their specific needs and desires. Build a mailing list of your current and desired customers by collecting addresses from their checks, asking them to fill out information cards, sign-up for your mailings or a catalog if you have one, etc. Keep the list up-to-date, as it can quickly become out-dated, and pay attention to mailings that are returned. Your goal here is not to inundate your customers with information, but to cater to their needs.

E-mail message <-> E-mail lists can be an efficient means of getting the word out about your product or service. Your e-mails should include a "signature line" at the end of each one. Most e-mail programs are designed to automatically attach your signature line to e-mails, if you choose. Be careful here: with the SPAM laws in effect, advertising e-mails are required to not only be “opt-in,” but they must contain an “opt-out” link as well.

Magazines <-> Magazines ads can be very expensive. Research at the library or search the web for a magazine that focuses on your specific industry, useful because the magazine already focuses on your market and potential customers, and you can study the ads of your competition. In addition to considering placing an ad, write an original short article for the magazine. Make acquaintances with one of the magazine’s reporters; reporters are always looking for new story ideas and resources.

Newsletter <-> This can be potent means of defining your products or services for your customers. Use a professional for the initial design and layout, then ask friends or business associates for article ideas relevant to your product or business. Include coupons for discounts on your products or services; give helpful hints about your product or service. Current desktop publishing programs and some word-processing programs can generate quality newsletters very inexpensively.

Newspapers (major) <-> Because of the availability of information on the Internet, printed newspapers are for the most part on the downturn. Having stated that, almost everyone reads the local and/or one of the major newspapers. Placing ads, writing a letter to the editor, or getting a reporter to write a story about your product or service are all good and inexpensive ways to get exposure, since advertising costs can be high. Newspaper advertising departments often give free advice about what and how to advertise, but knowing when to advertise pretty much depends on the buying habits of your customers, something you can discover from your own sales data.