All businesses need signage — how else do they expect to promote themselves to the public?

But depending on your industry, certain signs, banners or posters might be better suited for spreading the message. Here are a few suggestions for using signage in new and exciting ways. The results could help you be a leader in your industry.

Construction

A little "heads up" goes a long way in the world of construction. Safety signs around worksites alert pedestrians and drivers to traffic detours or hard hat areas.

Vinyl banners can also advertise contracting services visually as they inform onlookers of the company phone number, website or other vital information. A contractor amid an extensive commercial building renovation, for example, could ask banner printers to include a mockup of the finished facade alongside mandatory safety information that needs posting.

Landscaping

A freshly manicured yard or flower bed really turns heads, so landscapers should take advantage of the attention by installing lawn signs nearby. They're easy to install and remove, yet resilient enough to withstand the elements.

Lawn signs turn satisfied customers into great marketing opportunities for prospective clients, so don't be afraid to offer discounted rates for people who are willing to let your company advertise on their property.

Landscaping is an art, so never leave your latest masterpiece unsigned — and maybe include contact information for passersby who admire your work enough to call in a work order themselves.

Real estate

Yard signs also work wonders when it comes to marketing houses and rentals to broad audiences, but an expertly designed poster can make an even bigger splash at a real estate agent's next open house. By including high-definition images of a house's best features and setting posters near the entrance, you entice browsers to go beyond the threshold and explore the property.

Realtors can also display posters and glossy photos at their offices to show off local houses and rentals on the market. If interested buyers see something they like, they're more inclined to make the trek to the property for an open house or a private viewing.

Growing small businesses

Not every small business plans on staying small forever. As owners plot out exactly how and when to expand the footprints of their organizations, custom engineering prints will keep everyone involved in the latest renovation on task and coordinated.

And thanks to all the different sizing options available, you can rely on prints for every stage in the life of your small (or not-so-small) business.

Foodservice

People will come for miles around for a plate, slice or scoop of something delicious, but they can only follow their noses for so long.

Yard signs can help lead the way, and outdoor banners guide hungry patrons right to your doorstep, especially if they advertise upcoming events or the latest specials. Printed indoor banners serve as great menu displays, ensuring good visibility for customers throughout the restaurant.

Does your menu change seasonally? Perhaps consider investing in double-sided vinyl banner options to save money on printing multiple signs.

Retail

When retailers talk signage, it's all about sales and promotions. Posters, banners and other printed materials get the word out on the hottest deals while supplies last, but what about long-term success? Can signs enhance retail brand value in long-lasting ways?

Beautifully rendered photo enlargements add life to any retail setting. To you, business has always been more than just the sale — it's about community and family. Use professionally printed large-format photography of local landmarks and smiling employees to tell customers a story and let them know how much you care.

Signs might seem simple and straightforward, but matching the right job with the right resource makes all the difference when marketing to customers in your industry.