Is Your Strategy to Advertise a Dumpster Fire?

Business fam, let’s talk about something that might sound like a total facepalm moment.

Why do many businesses wait for famine to advertise?

Like, you’ve got a full-blown “Houston, we have a problem” scenario, and suddenly it’s, “Let’s throw money at ads!” But when sales are poppin’ like champagne on New Year’s Eve? Crickets.

We’re diving into this paradox, breaking it down in plain English (with a side of sass and some fun vibes). So grab your coffee—or whatever keeps you fueled—and let’s unpack why businesses treat advertising like that friend who only calls you when they’re in a jam.

Crisis Mode = Desperation Vibes

Here’s the tea: when sales tank, businesses freak out. They scramble to get back in the game, and advertising becomes their Hail Mary pass. It’s like realizing you should’ve studied for that big test the night before and cramming like your life depends on it. Sure, advertising can help, but doing it out of panic is not the vibe.

Think about it: if you only show up when you’re in trouble, people start to notice. Imagine a friend who only texts you when they need to borrow $20. Annoying, right? Consistency is key, whether you’re running a TikTok account or trying to keep your business afloat.

Why Peak Times Are the Best Times to Advertise

Let’s flip the script. When your business is thriving, that’s when you should be flexing your muscles! Why? Because people are already vibing with you. This is your golden moment to double down and keep the momentum going. You’re not just riding the wave—you’re building a tsunami.

Also, when you’re killing it, you’ve got the cash flow to invest. Advertising when you’re on top keeps you top-of-mind, and people will remember you when they need what you’re selling. It’s like being the life of the party. Everyone loves you now, and they’ll keep inviting you to hang out later.

Don’t Be a Seasonal Advertiser

Here’s a pro tip: businesses that only advertise during their “down season” are playing a risky game. It’s like putting sunscreen on after you’ve been burned. Not only are you wasting valuable time, but you’re also giving your competitors a head start. And trust me, Karen’s Cupcake Shack down the street is always ready to steal your customers.

Instead, think of advertising as a long-term relationship. You’ve gotta nurture it, give it attention, and maybe throw in some surprises (like a flash sale or cheeky Instagram Reel). Consistency builds trust, and trust builds loyal customers.

FOMO Is Real (And You’re Missing Out)

If you wait until the tough times to advertise, you’re missing out on some serious FOMO moments. Imagine this: it’s peak season, and everyone’s throwing cash around like it’s Monopoly money. But you’re just chilling, thinking, “We’re good right now. No need to spend on ads.” Meanwhile, your competitors are out there snatching up all the attention—and the dollars.

The truth is, advertising during peak times doesn’t just keep you in the game. It lets you dominate. And who doesn’t love being the main character?

Advertising Isn’t Just About Sales

Let’s get deep for a sec: advertising isn’t just about making money (okay, it is, but hear me out). It’s also about building your brand. Think of it as planting seeds. Sure, some will sprout and give you instant results, but others will grow over time, creating a lush garden of loyal customers.

By advertising consistently, you’re building brand recognition and your digital presence. People might not need what you’re selling right now, but when they do, guess who they’ll think of? Yep, you. Especially in a small community.

Stop Treating Advertising Like a Band-Aid

Businesses that only advertise during tough times are missing the point. Advertising isn’t a quick fix. It’s a long-term investment, like getting a gym membership to stay fit instead of crash-dieting before summer. (We see you, January gym crowd.)

When you commit to a regular advertising strategy, you’re creating stability. And stability is the secret sauce to staying ahead, no matter what the economy throws at you.

If you’re nodding along thinking, “Okay, I get it, but what do I do now?” don’t worry—I’ve got you.

The Game Plan

Advertise all year round:

Make a plan that covers the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Experiment:

Try new platforms, run A/B tests, and don’t be afraid to get creative. Who knows? That funny meme might be your best-performing ad.

Invest in your brand:

Build a presence that people can’t ignore. Whether it’s snazzy visuals or hilarious captions, make your ads memorable.

Track your results:

Data is your BFF. Use it to see what’s working and double down on those strategies.

If you’re only advertising when things are falling apart, you’re doing it wrong. Consistency is what separates the winners from the wannabes. Don’t wait until you’re in the red to start promoting your biz. Think of advertising as the fuel for your engine. Keep it topped up, and you’ll always be ready to hit the gas when it counts.

Now, go out there and show the world what you’ve got. And hey, maybe treat your ads like that Spotify playlist you spent way too long perfecting—keep them fresh, fun, and always on point. 💪