So You Wanna Be a Toronto Titan: A (Slightly Tongue-in-Cheek) Guide to Billboard Conquest
Ever looked up at a towering billboard in Toronto and thought, "Hey, that could be me! My face, plastered across the city, blinding pigeons and confusing tourists?" Well my friend, welcome to the club! Because who wouldn't want to achieve that level of local celebrity? This guide will be your chariot, leading you to billboard glory (or at least get you a quote that won't make your wallet cry).
Step 1: Embrace Your Inner Superstar (But Not Too Tightly)
First things first, my friend, you gotta have that billboard-worthy content. Are you a budding social media influencer with cat videos that would make Garfield jealous? A local bakery with cupcakes so good they deserve a standing ovation? Or maybe you're just a regular guy with a really strong message about the importance of wearing socks with sandals (hey, no judgement here). Whatever your niche, make sure it's something people will remember (for the right reasons, hopefully).
Step 2: Location, Location, Location (Because Not All Billboards Are Created Equal)
Not all billboards are born with equal Instagram potential. You wouldn't want your masterpiece tucked away in a back alley, would you?** Think about your target audience.** Do they spend more time hurtling down the highway or strolling down Queen Street? Are they glued to their phones at the bus stop or sipping lattes in a trendy cafe? Once you know where your people are, you can find a billboard that puts your message right in their eyeline.
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
Step 3: Prepare for Sticker Shock (But Maybe Not the Literal Kind)
Billboards aren't exactly impulse buys. We're talking real estate prices, but for your ego instead of a houseplant. Be prepared to shell out some serious cash. The cost can vary wildly depending on location, size, and how long you want your face (or product) to haunt the city. But hey, think of it as an investment in your own local fame!
Step 4: Unleash Your Inner Negotiator (Because Haggling is a National Pastime, Even for Billboards)
Don't be shy, my friend! Negotiate that price like your life depends on it. (Okay, maybe not that dramatic, but you get the idea.) Get quotes from different billboard companies, play them against each other, and see if you can snag a discount. Remember, every penny saved is a penny you can put towards a celebratory billboard dance party (highly recommended).
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
Bonus Tip: Design Matters (Unless You're Going for the 'Accidental Rorschach Test' Look)
Just because you're paying the big bucks doesn't mean your billboard has to look like it was designed in MS Paint. Hire a graphic designer who can create something eye-catching and memorable. Think simple, bold visuals and a clear message. You want people to get it in the three seconds they have before the traffic light changes.
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| How To Get A Billboard In Toronto |
How-To FAQ:
Tip: Summarize each section in your own words.
How to convince my cat to be the star of my billboard?
Good luck. Cats are notoriously difficult clients. Laser pointers and a lifetime supply of treats might be a good starting point.
How to design a billboard that won't get me sued?
Probably best to avoid using copyrighted characters or making any claims you can't back up. Lawyers are no fun.
QuickTip: Pause after each section to reflect.
How long will it take to get my billboard up and running?
There can be permits and approvals involved, so factor in some wait time. Don't expect your face to be gracing the city overnight.
How do I know if my billboard campaign is a success?
If your phone starts blowing up with endorsement deals, that's a good sign. Otherwise, keep an eye on social media to see if people are talking (hopefully not making fun).
How to take down my billboard after I become too famous for Toronto?
First, congratulations! Second, contact the billboard company. They'll handle the logistics, but be warned, taking down a billboard might be harder (and more expensive) than putting it up.
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