How to Start an Online Advertising Agency?

Online business advertising has quickly become the primary way to promote both small and large businesses. Today, money is pouring into this rapidly expanding field, and it is expected to be the greatest form of advertising in the future. Wherever there is advertising, there is advertising money being spent. You can tap into this market with the right skills and business model.

Create an Ezine or Blog

One way to get into the online advertising industry is to create a website where you can host and sell advertisements. This can occur in a number of different models, including an ezine "magazine" or a simple blog. Ezines typically focus on one industry or area. They can be hosted online or sent as an email each week or month. If you are going to start an ezine, you will need the following knowledge:

Excellent writing skills

Knowledge of the industry you would like to write about
A network of contacts that you will continue to grow
Knowledge of best practices in email marketing and content creation
This may include learning how to operate things like an email marketing platform or even learning how to program HTML, a computer language, into an email. If you do not have this knowledge, consider going with a simpler model of creating a blog. You can use a number of free, automated services to start a blog. These include the popular Wordpress and Blogger platforms. To start a blog, you will need:

Excellent writing skills

Knowledge of the industry you would like to write about
Good use of social networks and other platforms to promote your blog for readers.
With both an ezine and a blog, you will not truly make money off advertising until your readership becomes fairly large.

Become an SEO Expert

Search engine optimization (SEO) is the science of how to get found online. This practice area does not rely as much on paid advertisements as it does on constant promotions through website content, business listings and social networks. Today, there are a number of SEO professionals and SEO schools that can help you learn the business. You should know this industry has evolved a large degree since its initial starting place just a few years ago. Today, to truly call yourself an expert, you must stay on top of trends and have a solid knowledge of computer programming. If you are qualified, you can start a business helping other business owners implement changes to help them get found online.

Start a Marketing Company

If you want to take everything a step further, consider starting an online marketing business. This type of business model will employ best practices in all areas of online marketing including blogging, social networking, press releases and SEO. Individuals looking to run an online advertising business must have an excellent understanding of computer programming. Without this knowledge, you will not likely be able to compete with current businesses in your industry. It is additionally helpful to have a background in the traditional marketing industry, such as agency experience. Combining agency experience with strong online marketing knowledge will give you a good base to start a marketing company.

There is also some points which can be follow to related with this seat...

Step 1

Decide what type of advertising agency you wish to run, and list the services you will offer. Larger agencies may offer a number of services, while smaller agencies may specialize in internet, print media, radio, television, signage or other visual advertising media.

Step 2

Obtain a local business permit from your town hall, state tax certificate from your state's business regulatory office and federal tax identification number from the Internal Revenue Service. There are no special licenses to operate an advertising agency.

Step 3

Set up your office with computer, printer, phone, fax, furniture and supplies. Your office may be run from your home, but ensure that it is away from household noise and other distractions. A dedicated phone and fax line is recommended for professionalism, and you will require reliable high-speed Internet service.

Step 4

Purchase a digital camera, photo scanner and graphic arts design program such as the ad and printing industry standard, Adobe Creative Suite (optional). You may choose to outsource your design work, but will have to pay design fees.

Step 5

Purchase business cards, stationery, brochures and other printed marketing materials from your local printer. Endeavor to buy locally to establish business relationships in your town. If you wish to have a website, purchase a domain and hosting package, and publish your site.

Step 6

Create a list of local and regional businesses who may be interested in your services. Maintain the list on a spreadsheet or database program for reference and marketing purposes.

Step 7

Contact newspapers, magazines, television stations and other advertising media offices to request rate sheets. These sheets list the type and costs of advertising with their company. Most offer an average 10 percent discount off ad rates for agencies, but always inquire to be certain.

Step 8

Create and execute a marketing campaign to the companies on your prospect list. Your campaign may use elements of direct mail of marketing materials, emails and phone calls.

Step 9

Join local business organizations to network with other business owners and get your name out there. In the advertising business, relationships, visibility and creativity are the keys to getting your first account.