Radio advertising + fundraisers?

[Lars]

Has anyone tried using radio advertising to get new business? I'm considering donating some money to my local public radio station to get my business mentioned once a day during certain shows. The demographic of our local public radio station is reflected in the high $$$ + quality sponsors (no bargain hunters).

Also, has anyone done any self promotion through offering full details for certain groups who have silent auctions and the like? It seems like it would target a specific audience as well as get some new customers + more exposure.

Another idea I have had is to have the local foreign car repair shop recommend my business when customers ask about detailing. I know the owner (he works on my car and goes to my girlfriend's church) and I would assume it would be ok but I'm not completely clear on the agreements we would have to write out. Maybe it'll be easier just to have business cards on his bulletin board rather than actually have him recommend us. Opinions?

[charlesaferg]

Ironic, being named Lars. A family friend of ours is Lars Larson, local conservative talk show host. Wouldn't be you would it? lol

I personally bumped into Tim Thompson at one point when he ran out of gas in the middle of the road. I helped him get his car out of the way and took him to get gas without knowing who he was.

To my surprise, he gave me his card and I realized who he was. We spoke about advertising and the radio station he works for, which I particularly like. Apperently he knows my dad, who has been in radio advertising for years and years here in OR & Cali.

I mentioned my business and he was more than happy to help.

It's worth it, radio advertising is a great way to get your message out locally.

[advs1]

yeah i agree, i used to work for an auto sound shop who has now gone "big time" because of radio advertising. i was already gone when they started, but they have promo pics of the dj's who have had work done hanging up in the show room and use them in print ads. i am assuming they did the work free or at cost for the trade in using the dj's as reference. they are also very selective about when they advertise, usually when the most popular dj's are on and when the younger listeners are able to listen.