The Cochrane and District Chamber of Commerce held a 'Lunch N Learn' on October 19, showcasing a variety of media options to local business owners.

Cochrane Now, Cochrane Eagle, Cochrane Times, Cochrane Living Magazine, and the Town of Cochrane all gave a brief presentation on the importance of media presence.

Julie Haskill, Town of Cochrane, Communications Advisor says no matter if you are a non profit, or seasoned business owner, getting your message across effectively and timely can make all the difference.

"You really want to clearly articulate your brand and your messaging repeating your key messages being consistent, clear, and following the feel you want to really get across, is important in being effective. Keep in mind your audience, everybody looks for information in a lot of different places, you want make sure you are getting your information out so you are not missing some of your prime audiences."

Non-profit organizations and community groups have an advantage when it comes to advertising their event or key message. Haskill, shares these groups are able to communicate their messaging through the two permanent LED signs in town.

"Many non profit and community event organizers may not know that the town does offer some forms of getting your message out with our digital signs and event calendar."

The only thing you may want to watch is your timing.

"They would want to submit as early as they know the event is coming up and as soon as they have those details. We do book the space about 6 weeks in advance, the signage is set the week before the requested date, so we do need at least a week in advance but we do recommend people get that information up as soon as possible because things like the digital signs do fill up on occasion."

For those that qualify the digital sign works alongside other advertising to help get your message out.

Haskill adds doing a crossover of media will give you the most success.

"Utilize all your touch points, everything from print to online so that you are connecting and targeting with your audience. Be authentic and always try to come across in a way that will be memorable."