Should I Create a Banner Ad?

In today’s world of customized digital media for small businesses, there are several components to a website alone, along with other types of digital advertising that make up a complete online marketing strategy. Your online “real estate” can include your website, a mobile site, social media pages such as Facebook and Google Plus, listing pages on sites such as Yelp and Urban Spoon, landing pages, and banner ads. On the one hand, people may think of banner ads as those pesky boxes with “Click Here” that catch your eye on the sidebar of websites and search results. But they do serve a valuable purpose when created well and used correctly. You may be thinking, should I create a banner ad for my business?

It can only help your company to gain more leads and reach a wider audience.  A well designed banner ad will be simple with a clear message that is easy to read. Animations don’t have to be used, but if they are, they need to be used carefully—you don’t want to irritate the viewer. The size of the file should be small enough to load quickly, or else the user will get bored and click away from the banner ad. Branding is very important in making your advertisement stand out from others, so incorporating the logo in an obvious way is essential.  It’s also very important that the call to action in the ad links directly to the page with the corresponding offer or information—don’t make the user search for it. Most likely they won’t. The appeal of your banner ad depends largely on color and variety, so use bright colors that are easy on the eyes and update your ads every few weeks, even if that means designing a few initially and rotating them. Last but not least, test your ads to make sure they work, both technically and purpose wise.

Successful banner ads will draw in new customers from other sources such as Google, affiliated websites, and directory sites. They offer potential customers specific insights into what you do and are a quick venue for lead conversion. They can tie back to your website and be included directly on your website. An attractive, well designed, and properly developed banner ad significantly contributes to your online presence.

Banner ad creation is just one of the many services Beyond Custom Websites offers their small business customers. We’ll also set you up with a unique, fully customized website, mobile website, email and social media integration, and more. Our web developers, graphic designers, copywriters, and customer service experts will work with you to build credibility online and increase sales. Talk to our team today to get started. 

*Photo from: http://www.gainhigherground.com