Getting your small business off the ground is no small feat.
Whether you own a salon or a café, a boutique or a gym, you can never absorb too much inspiration for high-impact and creative ways to market your business without breaking the bank.
As a freelance copywriter, I've been fortunate that my customers have found me, but that's no reason to get lazy! I am always on the hunt for straightforward strategies to find more prospects, build my customer base and secure my niche in the market.
During my research, I found some great tips on how to get your business started on the right path from author, public speaker and mentor, Carolyn Tate. She's the brains behind Carolyn Tate & Co. a company that's evolving into an inspiring and supportive learning community for unconventional thinkers sharing the common goal to create a sustainable and profitable business that makes a difference.
Here are some of her tips:
- Know your target market - identify your ideal customers, and what, how and why they buy.
- Develop business and marketing plans - learn how to create them and why they're so important.
- Build effective databases - develop a database that creates business for you, without the headaches.
- Solidify your branding - create a unique brand and keep it fresh and exciting.
- Understand the power of advertising - assess if it's right for your business and how to pick the right strategies.
- Master publicity - get your business in the media with the right message.
- Implement relationship marketing - develop and maintain networks to create new opportunities.
- Embrace websites and online marketing - build a website that drives customers to you, and use online tools and search engines to generate business.
Of course, this is pretty top-level stuff, but these tips are the foundation that will bring your business to life.
Do you own a small business? What tips can you offer other small business startups? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
