Issue #16: Part 2 Pre-Launch Marketing Strategies to Kickstart Your MDB Business

Strategies to Strengthen Your Network, Optimize Your Ads, and Drive Early Success

Editors Note

Welcome to this issue of Digital Display Insider! In this issue, we will be giving you valuable information as you navigate the Mobile Digital Billboard (M.D.B.) startup process.

Last week, we introduced the first five steps of a powerful pre-launch marketing plan to help you lay the groundwork for success. This week, we’re diving into Part 2, covering the next five strategies to build connections, generate leads, and showcase your truck. These steps will help you transition from preparation to action, ensuring your business launches with momentum.

If you’ve been following along, you already know that consistency is the key to making these strategies work. This issue, combined with last week’s, gives you a complete 10-step roadmap. Stick with it, and you’ll be light years ahead of most new entrepreneurs. Let’s finish strong!

M.D.B. Startup Focus

Pre-Launch Marketing: 10 Steps to Kickstart Your MDB Business - Part 2

Last week, we kicked off this two-part series with the first five steps for launching a successful Mobile Digital Billboard (M.D.B.) business. Those steps focused on preparing to launch yourself and your business into your local market by identifying exactly who your dream customer is, understanding their journey to needing your service, and establishing your online presence. From creating a Dream 100 list to setting up a high-converting website and leveraging LinkedIn, you’ve been laying the groundwork for success.

This week, we shift gears to focus on building real-world connections and creating opportunities to engage with potential clients. These strategies will help you get your truck in front of the right audience, establish credibility, and start filling your funnel with qualified leads. With these strategies, you’ll turn the preparation from last week into actionable results that set your business apart from the competition.

Let’s dive into the next essential step: Networking and Building Relationships Locally.

6. Network and Build Relationships Locally

When it comes to pre-launch marketing, nothing beats the power of in-person connections. Building relationships with local business owners and decision-makers can open doors to opportunities that may not be available through online efforts alone. But not all networking opportunities are created equal, and it’s important to focus your energy where it will have the greatest impact.

One of my top recommendations is to look for a local BNI (Business Network International) chapter. BNI is a structured networking group designed to help business owners generate referrals and build strong professional relationships. It’s a great way to connect with other entrepreneurs who are also looking to grow their businesses. Beyond BNI, consider joining local entrepreneur groups or masterminds, where you can collaborate with like-minded individuals and gain valuable insights from others who have been in your shoes.

While many people swear by Chamber of Commerce events, I’ve found they’re not for everyone. Personally, I’ve struggled to get much value out of them. Chamber events often require a more outgoing personality type, someone who enjoys working the room and engaging with everyone. If that’s your style, these events could work for you. But if you’re more like me, focusing on smaller, more intentional networking opportunities may yield better results.

The goal is to surround yourself with a community of people who can help you grow your Mobile Digital Billboard business. Networking isn’t just about meeting potential clients—it’s about building relationships with people who can refer you to their networks, share valuable advice, and help you stay motivated on your entrepreneurial journey.

7. Boost Social Media Posts for Maximum Visibility

While paid advertising may not be a top priority when you’re just starting out, it can still play a strategic role in building awareness for your Mobile Digital Billboard business. Rather than diving into full-scale ad campaigns, focus on boosting posts that showcase your truck in action. The key is to highlight real-world examples of your truck displaying ads for recognizable local brands. These posts build trust by showing potential clients that reputable businesses are already using your services.

8. Create and Actively Maintain a Google Business Profile

When it comes to local search, Google is king. Most potential clients searching for advertising solutions will start their journey on Google, so it only makes sense to maximize your visibility on their platform. One of the best ways to do this is by creating and actively maintaining a Google Business Profile. This free tool allows you to showcase your Mobile Digital Billboard business and connect with local customers quickly and effectively.

With a Google Business Profile, you can:

  • Post Updates: Share news, promotions, or upcoming events to keep your audience informed and engaged.

  • List Your Services: Clearly outline what you offer, from exclusive ad campaigns to event promotions, making it easy for prospects to understand how you can help them.

  • Upload Photos and Videos: Showcase your truck in action, highlight successful campaigns, and build trust through high-quality visuals.

  • Collect and Respond to Reviews: Positive reviews build credibility and help establish your business as a trusted local authority.

The best part? It’s completely free. All it takes is your time and consistency to keep the profile updated and optimized. By using this tool effectively, you’ll increase your visibility on Google search results and maps, making it easier for local businesses to find and contact you.

Investing time in your Google Business Profile is a simple yet powerful way to grow your online presence and attract clients who are actively searching for your services.

If you haven’t worked with any local businesses yet, here’s a simple solution: offer two hours of free advertising to a well-known local business with strong community trust. All they need to do is provide the artwork for the ad. Then, take your truck to a highly recognizable area in your community, such as a downtown street, popular park, or busy shopping district. Bring a good camera—or better yet, hire a professional photographer—to capture high-quality action shots of the truck displaying their ad.

Use these photos to create engaging posts that show the truck in real-world settings. When you boost these posts, target local business owners and decision-makers. The goal is to spark interest and help them visualize how your truck can do the same for their brand. This simple strategy not only amplifies your visibility but also positions your business as a trusted, results-driven advertising solution.

9. Showcase Your Truck at Local Events

Building local awareness for your Mobile Digital Billboard business starts with showing people what your truck can do. One of the most effective and low-cost ways to do this is by taking advantage of outdoor events with heavy foot traffic, such as farmers markets, concerts, or sports events. These events provide the perfect opportunity to introduce your truck to the community while demonstrating its value in real-time.

You have two great options here:

  • Run a “Advertise Here” Ad: Drive your truck around the event displaying a simple, eye-catching ad that says “Advertise Here – Call [Your Number].” This lets attendees see your truck in action, and your only cost is fuel and time.

  • Offer a Discounted Ad to a Local Business: Reach out to a business contact and explain that you’re building your portfolio. Let them know your regular rate but offer a discounted deal in exchange for them providing artwork and allowing you to use the photos for your marketing. This gives you high-quality content featuring a recognizable local business, which builds trust and credibility.

To maximize visibility, consider adding a QR code below the screen that links directly to your contact page. This makes it easy for people to scan and learn more about your services on the spot. Remember, one of the best ways to gain traction in your local market is by using the very tool you’re selling—your Mobile Digital Billboard.

10. Partner with Nonprofits to Give Back and Build Connections

I operate my business based on the biblical principles I try to live my life by, and one of those principles is generosity—giving back my time, talents, and treasures. Being able to use my LED trucks to help local nonprofits fulfill their missions has brought me immense joy. Whether it’s providing ad space to promote a fundraiser or donating the truck’s use for an event, these moments of service have been some of the most rewarding experiences of my career.

While I never approach these partnerships expecting anything in return, I’ve found that they often lead to new business opportunities. Time and time again, partnering with a nonprofit has opened doors to new clients, referrals, or increased visibility in the community. People respect and trust businesses that give back, and this trust naturally turns into more business.

I encourage you to incorporate this practice from the very beginning. Identify nonprofits in your area that align with your values and offer your truck to support their mission. Whether it’s running an ad for a charity event or being part of a parade to raise awareness, you’ll not only make a positive impact but also establish yourself as a business that cares about the community. It’s a win-win that builds goodwill while creating opportunities to grow your Mobile Digital Billboard business.

Bonus Step: Get A Branded Email Address

One of the most common mistakes I see new entrepreneaurs make is launching their business and then sticking with a Gmail or Yahoo email account. Let’s be real…if you can’t take you business serious enough to invest $50-100 per year into business email hosting, then your customers won’t take you serious either. Frankly, Gmail is one of the best email hosts, and they make it super easy to host your email under your domain for less than two lattes a month.

If you don’t know how to set it up, get on Fiverr and pay someone $25-$50 to do it for you. They can set up your entire G-Suite including your Google Business Page. DO NOT, under any circumstances, use a [email protected] for your email address.

Conclusion

By creating a detailed six-month plan around the ten steps we've discussed over the past two issues—and executing each one consistently—you'll position yourself light-years ahead of most new startup entrepreneurs. The key is to make a plan and stick with it, day in and day out. As Craig Groeschel wisely says, "Small disciplines done consistently lead to big results over time."

Remember, success doesn't come from sporadic bursts of effort but from steady, intentional actions that build momentum and drive growth. Stay committed to your plan, remain adaptable to feedback, and keep your focus on serving your clients with excellence. With dedication and consistency, your Mobile Digital Billboard business is poised for remarkable success.

Jerry Teeter LED Truck Consulting www.jerryteeter.com/consultng

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LED Truck Financing Options

Financing Options: Lease Your LED Truck with Currency

Legion LED Trucks has partnered with Currency to offer flexible financing and lease options for both new and used LED trucks! Whether you’re looking to start or grow your MDB business, these leasing plans provide an affordable way to get on the road with minimal upfront investment.

Leasing is an excellent option for operators who want to keep cash flow steady while upgrading their equipment regularly. With 36-, 48-, and 60-month turnback leases available, you can keep your fleet up to date without the commitment of long-term ownership. For example:

  • Lease a $150,000 truck for $4,665/month on a 36-month term or $3,626/month on a 48-month term.

  • A $200,000 truck can be leased for $6,221/month on a 36-month term, $4,835/month on a 48-month term, or $4,007/month on a 60-month term.

  • Payments can be customized based on your needs, with turnback options at the end of the lease.

To qualify, applicants need a minimum 670+ credit score and three months of bank statements. Additional requirements may apply. Financing is subject to credit approval, and terms may vary based on creditworthiness and truck selection.

This partnership is designed to make it easier than ever to grow your business without tying up capital. For more information or to explore your leasing options, contact us today!

Bonus Content

Check out this Bonus Video on our Digital Display Insider Facebook Group. Join us to get deeper insights into this weeks issue.

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