Online advertising alone is a multi billion dollar industry, yet I still believe that if you could somehow globalize word of mouth, it would be prove to be much more valuable. I run a moving business in Southern California and I still receive referrals from customers that My Crew and I relocated 3-5 years back. All from word of mouth.
I previously relied solely on the web resource Craigslist for leads. Craigslist is the American Version of Ad Trader Scotland where you can acquire services, buy goods, offer services, etc.. I rarely advertise because I now have the luxury of knowing that clients will be referred to me due to the level of customer service that My Team and I extended to the original clients who are now referring the new clients to us. I stress the words My Team and I because running a business is never a one man show.
Respect the people who assist in making your vision a reality, and in turn they will perform at a high level. Do the aforementioned and your employees will almost assuredly provide great customer service to your clients on your behalf.
Paying for professional advertising services is never a bad idea, but a better idea is to predicate the success of your business on providing Unparalleled Customer Service. Great person to person/persons relations will never fail to produce goodwill and loyalty between the parties. Keep in mind that your customers are paying you for the level of service that they expect in return.
Great learning advice! It was really a team effort and unity to achieve one goal specially in business success.