5 Signage Strategies That Boost Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Last updated on April 18th, 2025 at 05:56 pm

You’ve probably encountered some level of word-of-mouth marketing, or maybe you’ve tried it yourself: from a friend hyping up her favorite fashion line over lunch, an Instagram post recounting a unique dining experience, or perhaps you posted a positive review on Google. You’d want more people to talk about your business in affirmative ways, whether through in-person or online conversations, and you can do it with the help of signs. Here are five ways signs can spark discussion that can create more buzz around your brand.

1. Crack a joke or write a witty line.

Everyone loves a good joke, and people would be excited to share it when they spot a fun pun they see on display. Tex-Mex restaurant El Arroyo got more people talking with humorous messages on their marquee sign, which resulted in tons of online shares. Some sign messages relate directly to their brand, like “To me, essential oils are what drips out of tacos.” While others give relatable takes on everyday life: “We wanted to be adults so bad, now look at us.”

Taking inspiration from El Arroyo, consider the kind of humor your customers will appreciate. You can write a joke or compose some witty observation to get them talking about your brand and sharing photos of your hilarious take. Sky’s the limit in displaying your next great (or not-so-great) dad joke or self-deprecating observation: write it on a chalkboard or update the A-frame sign in front of your store. It should go without saying that if you’re going to try your hand at humor, make sure it isn’t offensive, otherwise you’d be the talk of the town for the wrong reasons. Having a few people review your joke before putting it on a sign can save you from trouble.

2. Lead the way for potential customers.

Signs stand out when they can lead potential customers closer to what they need or might be looking for. Convenience store and gas station Buc-ee’s has billboards that start showing up as cross-country drivers get closer to the nearest bathroom. Some of these advertisements promise them that sweet release from holding their pee in:

You don’t have to go as far as 262 miles away from your store before you can put a sign, but you could place floor decals on the sidewalk leading to your store entrance or a few poster signs as potential customers get closer to your store. Build anticipation for something they might want that’s also unique to your business, as Buc-ee’s does with its promise of clean restrooms.

3. Create an interactive for experience customers will want to participate in.

Prominently display a QR code on a sign that invites passersby to scan and play an interactive mobile game. Customers can quickly get involved thanks to the instantaneous nature of QR scans and having their phones on hand. Playing from their phones also makes sharing experiences faster on social media. As players engage, they’re likely to screenshot high scores, share gameplay moments, and invite friends to beat their records on their social profiles. Your sign can lead to experiences that spark fun and friendly competition online, which can result in digital word-of-mouth as each share endorses your brand for minimal advertising effort. Be creative with where you display this interactive sign. It could be on a large vinyl banner a few steps from your store, an aluminum sign in a high-traffic area, or a yard sign in a residential area near your shop.

4. Use typography to tell an engaging story.

Signs are a great way to tell a short but impactful story about your brand. These displays rely on eye-catching visuals and easy-to-read typography, which is likelier to capture attention over lengthy texts. Employ typography to create a personalized message, as seen in this Leadway Assurance ad, thanking customers for standing with them throughout the 2020 pandemic. The ad takes typography a step further as each word associated with 2020 lockdowns completes its “Thank You” message in a video. You can easily print your unique typography on window clings, posters, or wooden hanging signs. Select a display that will capture the customers’ attention and compel them to admire the details.

5. Transform your company vehicle into a moving message.

Don’t limit conversations about your signs to roads or areas near your store. Maximize the space on your company vehicle, especially if you provide services like home repairs or if you’re in the travel industry. A distinct advertisement on your vehicle can start a conversation about your business from wherever it’s seen. Your brand expands its reach as more people see your vehicle showcasing your message. The moving sign doesn’t have to be large either. You can start with a car magnet or bumper sticker that’s within your budget and easy to apply on your vehicle.

Create a Sign Worth Talking About

Ready to get potential and current customers talking about your business? Explore the different signs that will get their attention on UPrinting. From banners, A-frame signs, window clings, and more, you’ll quickly find a durable and distinct display that fits your vision and budget.