What are some advantages of advertising?

• A. It can reach a large audience, has a low cost per contact, and helps build product awareness.
• B. It guarantees immediate sales and precise targeting.
• C. It requires no creative effort and is free.
• D. It replaces need for personal selling.

Answer: (A)

Advertising is most valuable when the goal is to reach a wide audience and build awareness about a product over time. It can connect with many potential customers and, with smart media planning, can spread the message at a relatively low cost per person reached, helping the brand become familiar and memorable.

Think about why the other statements don’t fit as advantages. Advertising does not guarantee immediate sales; responses depend on many factors and aren’t assured the moment a ad runs. It isn’t free and does require creative effort and strategic planning to be effective. And it doesn’t replace personal selling—it often works alongside it, generating interest and awareness that salespeople can convert into actual purchases.