Advertising Idea's Needed - To Students

**BellaSotre** · 01-16-2007 06:19 PM

I recently have created a small business with my fiance that involves textbooks. I will not really go into more details on how I buy and sell with these students and such, but I'm looking for any advice on advertising.

I already have some great ideas via the web, as in facebook, myspace and such and own a website to establish communication between buyer/seller. But I'm having trouble reaching EVERYONE. Facebook and such only hit a small community at the university and I'm really trying to tap into the not so computer literate type. I believe I could be in some trouble if I advertise on campus, literally, as it is in direct competition for the college bookstore. I could try bus stops and such but other than that, I am out of ideas.

Handing out flyers is always an option, not sure if it would be legal for me to do though (on campus).

Any ideas whatsoever?

And to those who say I shouldn't be revealing my ideas or along those lines, it's fine. This is a market that is tapped locally, and done all around the US (not successfully for the most part) so I am not worried at all.

Any input is greatly appreciated,

**monaarts** · 01-17-2007 06:00 PM

I am currently a college student and I think I might know a few ideas for you to get in touch with the students of the particular college you are going after.

#1: Host something like a barbecue and advertise for THAT on campus. Have FREE food and drinks, offer some prizes (maybe even girft certificates to your book store), play music, etc. Make it kind of like a tail gating party.

#2: Put flyers in nearby restaurants, especially fast food restaurants. Students are always there, I'll promise you!

#3: Finally, offer some type of referral program. Maybe you can give a $25 gift certificate in the mail for someone who reffers 3 friends. IDK, just an idea.

I hope you like them! Good luck with everything!

-Joe

**Franakapan** · 01-17-2007 06:18 PM

When I think about advertising to college/university students I always get the urge to creat a buzz... Do something crazy, go a lil wild - get noticed.

Actually, thinking about it, it might be difficult to do that with used books but if you think about it I'm sure you will come u with an idea. One example I have for you - An advertising company paid students to wear tshirts advertising the company's clients to concerts etc. and, because advertsing isn't allowed in concerts, these students always got chucked out. this got press and media coverage and therefore a great deal of exposure for the clients. (I think the phrase to go with her would be any publicity is good publicity).

Hopefully this will get you thinking

**theapprentice** · 01-17-2007 06:59 PM

For student I believe word of mouth is the best way. If you are offering a unique service that students will want than they will talk about it.

its cheap and effective.

TheApprentice

**JBanham** · 01-17-2007 09:21 PM

Glue an add of yours inside the front cover...
make sure you dont go over any information, but if anyone give away a text book to a friend or sells it and its not through you then they will see your add and most likly come to you when they need more text books...

hope that helps

**stevenb303** · 01-19-2007 05:16 PM

Throw a barbecue or party before a football game but put your biz logo on the cups, napkins, everywhere. It'll get noticed and ppl will ask questions.
OR use the party to give away free t-shirts with your logo on it, if they buy a beer or a piece of pizza or something.