Use advertising firms in Connecticut to meet your promotional needs

Look at your current promotional schedule and plan and decide what you need from a full-service ad agency. In Connecticut, you have an opportunity to promote locally and in the surrounding states. Think about the specific ways you would like to advertise your business and how far you would like those advertisements to reach.

I recommend: Consider the right type of agency for your business. Many firms focus on technical advertising and market research while others focus more on entertainment or product marketing. Make a list of your business needs, including media planning, designing, placing and event marketing. Contact Barbeau-Hutchings Advertising, Inc. and Design Images in Connecticut.

Find Connecticut ad agencies in your area

Research promotion agencies in your local area to find the best fit for your business. Ask colleagues which firms they have used in the past and what they liked about them. Make a list of about 10 to 12 advertising agencies in Connecticut to begin your search.

I recommend: Search local Connecticut-based advertising agency listings. Narrow the search to specific towns or areas to find those agencies closest to your business. Use an agency match from Respond.com to connect to agencies that fit your specific criteria with regards to location and type of services offered.

Speak with the ad agencies in Connecticut that seem to meet your needs

Browse websites and ask colleagues about the firms on your list. Narrow your list to about 6-8 possibilities and contact a representative for more information. Set up appointments with the creative team to discuss the direction of your promotion plan.

I recommend: Contact firms online to ask specific questions or to set up a meeting. Most advertising firms in Connecticut have websites with location maps, contact information and portfolios from current and past client work. Ask about marketing coaching or online webinars to help you better understand the advertising game. Contact Maier Advertising or Tweedy & Company, ad agencies in Connecticut.

Make the most of your meeting with a Connecticut ad firm

Bring your list of needs, questions and a sample of your product to the interview meeting. If you are busy, ask that the agency representatives meet at your office-they're often flexible and willing to work with your busy schedule. Listen to the pitch and ask questions about the agency's experience and eagerness to succeed.

I recommend: Always ask for a portfolio of previous and current work. Make sure you point out pieces you like and campaigns that are similar to your own vision. Many full-service advertising agencies in Connecticut prefer to work directly with you on every piece of the project while others take note of what you need and present only a finished product for approval. For ideas, look at the portfolios of companies like Keiler & Company.