Many home improvement contractors attempt to use advertising to expand their client base and increase profits. Whether it be yellow pages, mailers, ads, or valpak; for many it's a total waste of time and money. Why do so many contractors achieve less than desired results from their advertising dollars? The answer: They're doing it the wrong way!

There are two types of advertising. One is a complete waste of money. The other is highly effective, yet very few people know about it.

Brand Marketing, or "image advertising" is a total waste of money. It's easy to recognize. This is the sort of "getting your name out there" advertising we all see everyday. It is the type of advertising that only works for companies that have millions of dollars in their budget.

The advertiser tries to relay an image about how great the company is. They use large (expensive) ads with fancy logos, graphics, and colors to try to convince the prospect that the company is more professional, stronger, more trustworthy and competent than its competitors. It tries to make people feel that this is a company they should trust to do business with.

The problem is, the focus of this advertising is all me, me, me. The advertiser is suggesting you buy from him without actually telling the prospect what's in it for them. The essence of the sales message is "buy from me because I'm telling you I'm a great company.