• Outdoor marketing allows you to get your message to people on the go.marketing image by dead_account from Fotolia.com
  
  Outdoor marketing can be an effective way to reach potential customers. Outdoor advertising methods such as door hangers allow you to target a specific group of customers, while signs on cars can be used to reach a wider market. Methods of outdoor advertising can range from the inexpensive to ones that are more suited for larger companies with deeper marketing pockets.
  
  

Door Hangers

• If you're launching a new business in the neighborhood, door hangers can be an effective way to get the word out. If you don't have the time to do it yourself, hire some neighborhood kids to place your door hangers on the outer doors of homes and businesses in the neighborhood. Door hangers can be made relatively inexpensively by your local print shop, or if you have computer expertise, you can do the work yourself on your personal computer. Take caution when attempting to place hangers in condo or apartment complexes, as some have rules prohibiting this type of activity.
  
  

Car Advertising

• If your business requires you to be on the road, turn your vehicle into a rolling billboard by attaching magnetic signs on the doors. Companies such as MagneticSignsOnTime.com manufacture removable, customized signs for a relatively low cost. For additional exposure, hire other drivers who are on the road frequently to place your signs on their own vehicles. Include your business's telephone number or website address so potential customers know how to get in touch with you.
  
  

Billboards

• If you prefer a more traditional approach and have a larger marketing budget, billboards are another option to consider. Billboards give you exposure 24 hours a day and can be effective when placed in high-traffic areas. Because billboards are viewed quickly, they require the use of an attention-grabbing picture or a brief, witty line or slogan to get your message across.
  
  

Balloons

• Large polyurethane balloons placed outside your business are a good way to attract the attention of passersby. The size can be seven feet or even larger and the balloons are able to withstand all types of weather. H & R Block has used these balloons outside its locations during tax season as a way to promote its services. On windy days, the balloons gyrate, which makes them even more noticeable.