San Francisco is an amazing city to start a business in because it’s one of the more well-known places in America. It’s the fourth most populated city in California, meaning there are plenty of customers to attract. However, figuring out a strategy to draw people toward your business is the hardest part.
Whether you’re a new company or want to revamp your reputation, brand awareness is key. So we’ve outlined a few ways to raise your business’s profile in this beautiful city. Check them out below.
1. Use Billboards
You can never go wrong with billboards; they’re a great marketing tactic because they stand out more than other ad formats. Social media can be over-saturated with like-minded posts from competitors. And most consumers tend to scroll past web ads on search engine pages.
But if you want to grab their attention, try implementing billboards. SF billboards, in particular, are great because there are various places you can put them, including:
- Near tourist attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39
- Around Oracle Park and Oakland Stadium, two professional sports venues
- Airports
- Highways
- College campuses
Depending on your target audience, you can place a billboard near these locations and garner interest in your business. However, the area is half the battle; the other half is figuring out your billboard design. You can go with traditional or digital billboards, both of which will help your cause. Which will represent your business better? That’s the million dollar question.
Furthermore, you’ll also need to consider your billboard’s message. Remember, you’re in San Francisco, which is a popular city. So there will be a lot of distractions that can minimize your billboard’s impact. Determine how to draw a customer’s attention within three to eight seconds. They should gain the necessary information and make a choice about your company at that time.
2. Craft a Compelling Story
Customers love a good story; it gives them a little insight into a business, and most prefer relating to the masterminds behind the product or service. For example, Facebook (or Meta) started on a college campus with a few friends; Apple started in a garage by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak working on computers and selling them.
These are stories that everyday people can relate to. Not everyone has access to significant capital that can help them fund their venture. Nothing’s wrong with that, but if that’s how your business started, you’ll need to make your story appeal to the masses instead of a select few. It’s natural for humans to crave connection. And by providing a backstory about your company, they’ll develop an attachment, prompting them to use your product or service.
3. Increase Your Product’s Value
Yes, customers will frequent your company because of your product. But the real way to retain their services is by improving the product’s value beyond its primary use. By informing, educating, or entertaining customers, they’ll get to know your brand a lot better.
You can use podcasts, newsletters, or blogs to give customers further insight into your company. As mentioned above, patrons want to feel connected to your business. With the increased information, you’ll build lasting relationships that make it easier for them to choose your services over the competition.
Plus, if you plan on sharing content, ensure it’s shareable. Over 72% of Americans have a social media account. You’ll never know which of your posts will go viral, but that isn’t the point. As long as customers can easily share your posts, you’ll build a solid following, which can slowly increase your client base.
4. Work With Local Organizations
Whether starting a new company or trying to improve your current venture, it’s essential to work with local organizations. They have a pulse on the city and can connect you to people who may need your services.
There are various nonprofits and charities in San Francisco, such as:
- Endangered Species International
- UniversalGiving®
- Foundation For Students Rising Above
- Girls Who Venture
These are only a few, but there are plenty of options to choose from that may align with your business interests. Think about how you can connect with these organizations. You’ll be helping the people of San Francisco, raising your business’s profile, and helping gain more customers.
Brand Awareness is Essential
Having a successful company is the goal of all business owners. However, to do so, you need to grow your brand awareness. Look at some of the suggestions above, see where you’re lacking, and then implement changes to bolster your business. A new level of success is on the horizon.
