Are Your Small Business Signs Getting You Customers?

For drivers who do not rely on GPS, finding a "hidden" business is frustrating. We've all been there; cruising or crawling down unfamiliar streets looking for a sign, marker-anything to point the way. Angry drivers fly around you while an especially perturbed one tells you you're "number one." Finally, you see it-a sign neatly buried in tall, unkempt grass. In our little scenario, you wouldn't want to be the driver or the business owner.

As a small business owner, I rely on my signage to help customers find me. I run my business from my home and in respect for my rural neighborhood, I aim to be discreet yet findable. This does not mean I can't be found. I have a unique, easy to read sign that is easy to spot from the roadway. I did my research before I purchased a sign. These pointers helped me.

• Buy a sign that will endure all kinds of weather. Wood, metal or heavy-duty plastic signs are best.

• Choose a sign in the shape of your profession or business service. For example, as a cosmetic business, my sign is in the shape of a paint palette with makeup brushes.

• Select sign colors that stand out from your house or your business's paint colors. Signage that blends into the scenery will not help you attract business.

• Avoid buying signs made of foam. I lost mine in a thunderstorm it was not worth the pricy investment.

• Position the sign where passing traffic can easily spot it. It should not be behind a tree, building or so low to the ground it is hard to spot. Small business owners should drive by their business location a few times using a place marker to test possible sign spots.

• Don't clutter up the sign with a lot of information. Too many words, numbers or images will make it hard to read quickly. The most important parts of the signage are the name, phone number and hours of operation. Anything else may be too much information for the casual reader. If you do want to put lots of info "out there" then use a set of signs. One large sign for the main information then a few smaller ones to tell about sales and services.

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