Advertising Methods

Advertising can take many forms. Here are the different advertising types and channels that advertisers have used over the years:

1. Print Advertising

Print advertising refers to posters, bulletins, flyers, and other physically-printed promotions. It also includes newspaper and magazine ads.

While print advertising has changed significantly over the years, it has remained a steadfast medium, even as digital advertising has taken over. Unlike digital media, print advertising can’t be easily tracked or analyzed. However, many brands have successfully integrated print advertising into broader digital campaigns to create a more holistic marketing approach.

2. Billboards and Public Transit Ads

Billboard advertising takes print advertising to a much larger scale. Billboards and public transit ads are unique because of their size, design, and placement.

These ads are usually designed with minimal text, allowing viewers to quickly process the message while passing by. Billboards and transit ads are primarily used for brand awareness, often featuring just a brand name, logo, or phone number.

3. TV Commercials

TV commercials are short advertisements developed and paid for by companies and organizations to capture the attention of viewers during a TV show or network program.

Since the invention of the television, TV ads have been a powerful advertising method, providing a multi-sensory experience that other forms of advertising cannot. TV ads reach millions of viewers, but they can also be costly and are sometimes skipped or ignored by audiences, especially with the rise of streaming services.

4. Radio Advertising

Radio advertising involves spoken advertising spots that air on radio channels between music or other programs. This form of advertising dates back to the 1920s, when commercial radio was first introduced.

Radio ads work well for local and regional advertising. In recent years, podcast advertising has emerged as a similar but more effective option, particularly for reaching national or niche audiences.

5. Event Advertising

Event advertising involves connecting with your audience during in-person or virtual events. You can host your own event — such as a conference, webinar, or roundtable — to promote your brand and products.

Another way to leverage event advertising is by sponsoring an event or purchasing a booth at a conference or trade show. Sponsoring an event is generally less expensive than hosting your own and still allows you to engage attendees and promote your brand.

6. Direct Mail

Direct mail advertising includes sending postcards, pamphlets, and catalogs directly to the homes of your target audience. It’s a more personal form of advertising, but it can also be costly due to the price of postage and production.

An alternative direct mail strategy is electronic mail, typically in the form of email newsletters or promotions. This overlaps with digital advertising, which we’ll explore next.