Photos on Bench Ads: Do or Don’t?

Before designing their bench ad design, many business owners wonder: Should I put my face on this ad? 

If you’ve ever asked yourself the same question, you’re not alone! You may be hesitant about taking up the extra space on your ad, or possibly you just don’t feel comfortable with having your portrait on display for all the town to see! But here at Waverly Media, we’ve noticed that the benefits of including a photo on your bench ad typically far outweigh any concerns you may have.

Do you want to know how?

A photo of you or your firm can…

Create familiarity of your business.

Sometimes the biggest challenge business owners face is simply getting their name out there. You can have a great and fully functional firm or business, but it’s hard to reel in new clients if they don’t associate your brand with your advertisements. When you include a photo on your bench ad, it adds something to your reputation in the community. The next time a new client walks into your business, they may feel like they already know you… “I recognize you from your ads!”… which is a sign of familiarity that is hard to find these days.

Humanize your ad.

When someone is (potentially) going to spend lots of time and money at your business, it makes sense that they’d like to know who they will be working with. While a portrait or group photo on your bench ad can’t exactly deliver a full biography and list of credentials, it can certainly help you put a face to your business, showing a glimpse of the real people behind the ad. While virtually any business can benefit from this type of “ad humanization,” it’s especially helpful for law firms, insurance or real estate agents, doctors and other professionals. This is because these are people you really need to trust… and before clients walk into your office, they will at least have a feeling of who you are, bringing you one step closer to the trusting, working relationship you need.

Distinguish your business from others in your field.

Finally, using a photo or portrait on your bench ad can really help to distinguish your business from all the others in your field. If you’re competing with a local business and feel that you need an “edge,” a personalized bench ad might just be the perfect way to do it. Including a photo will help potential clients realize that your business, shop or firm is different from the other ones they have likely seen advertised—and they’ll know it’s different because they see your face!

While it’s perfectly normal to feel unsure about using a photo in your bench ad, we want you to know that this advertising tool can only help your business! The simple addition of a photo can set your business apart from the competition and make potential clients more likely to call you or walk right in… and for those reasons, we think that including a photo is definitely a “do.”