10 Small Business Green Advertising Tips

Each year it gets harder to compete with the barrage of super stores swallowing up small business opportunities. That is why, if you own a small business, you have to constantly think outside the box to bring in customers. Now that many companies are on the going green bandwagon in one form or another there is no reason you should be trailing behind. Whatever it is you hawk, you have to get the word out and if you can incorporate some kind of green message in your marketing campaign chances are you will stay ahead of the curve and add to your customer base. Below are 10 small business green advertising tips that may spark some new ideas.

Eco-Label

Ensure that you are using credible green practices. Whether it is recycled printing paper to certified green products attaching an eco-label is one of the first steps to be able to add to your advertising.

EPA Guide

Check the Environmental Protection Agency’s guide to greening your products and use their literature in your marketing.

Evaluate Your Packaging

Research the best way to green your packaging and claim this green change.

Research Claim Status

Be sure and check with your state, Better Business Bureau and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) guides for the use of environmental marketing claims.

Eco-Run Website

Revamp or create your company website through an environmentally friendly server that will advertise its eco-friendly power options such as ‘this website is 100% powered by wind’.

Use Paid Green SEO Options

Paying for search engine optimization can ensure that millions see your small business website. Create a pro-green ad and pay only when it is clicked on.

Green Email

Email advertising is an effective way to build relationships, announce events and even sell your wares. Make sure in each email there is a green message advertising your company’s practice or support.

Use Tracking Tools

Most search engines offer a tracking tool option to see how many people click on your site. This will let you know if your green Internet marketing is working or if it needs to be re-adjusted.

Factory to Consumer

Show how your products are green from the start with a small example of eco-friendly factory production, travel and delivery to your business all on a low carbon footprint.

Know Your Green Customer

Consumers are very savvy now regarding valid environmental concern info. Make sure you are careful not to condescend or advertise subpar eco-products/practices because eventually they will know and shop elsewhere.

Offer Green Incentives

In your advertising, offer a discount when purchasing a green product or promise green support for patronizing your services. This will build trust amongst your green consumers and surely get them to return.

Take advantage of the green customer base out there and let them know you are on board. Adding green marketing and eco-labels to your marketing strategy can only enhance your brand image. Run alongside or surpass local competitors with clever yet altruistic environmentally sound strategies and feel good about your part in reducing your global carbon footprint.