Advertising companies create ads for magazines, newspapers, billboards, radio, television and the Internet.
Start an advertising company if you have skills in copy writing, graphic design or a strong background in marketing or sales. The ability to sell advertising concepts to clients is necessary in order to stay competitive. Advertising companies help both small and large businesses sell goods and services through print ads, billboards, radio, television and Internet advertising. Knowledge of the latest marketing and advertising trends can help you provide the right type of advertising for your clients.
Instructions
1. Apply for a business license to start an advertising company in your area. Contact the county clerk's office or small business administration office for licensing information and materials. Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) through the Internal Revenue Service. Use the EIN when filing state and federal taxes and on business documents. Register your ad company to form a limited liability company (LLC), corporation or partnership with your state's secretary of state's office.
2. Lease commercial office space to meet clients, design ads and to house employees and design equipment. Select a space in a busy downtown or business district. Purchase office furniture, supplies and computer software such as desktop design, graphic design, bookkeeping and invoicing software. Purchase business insurance to protect office equipment from theft or damage. Business insurance also helps protect business assets in the event of a lawsuit or settlement.
3. Market ad creation services to businesses in your area. Create fliers, brochures and post cards to send directly to prospective clients. Create a website to highlight your experience. Contact local businesses to arrange business meetings. Attend local networking functions, charity events and trade shows to meet business owners.
4. Demonstrate your skills in copy writing and graphic design by creating sample ads for prospective clients. Take these samples with you to business meetings to give clients a general idea of your skills. Follow up meetings with a phone call or email thanking the client for their time.
