While there is some truth to the old adage, “you need to spend money to make money,” you don’t need to dump bucket loads on marketing. A heaping spoonful of creativity and a dash of common sense can go a long way in the recipe for success, especially on a budget. Here are a few hints of inspiration to get started.
Join schmoozing events
The best way to get your face and name out there is to visit people in person. Why not kill a bunch of birds with one stone, and find an event that might be filled with an audience that is of interest to your business, and vice-versa. Who you know can go a long way in business, and there is still no better connection than one that’s made in person.
Support a local cause
Not only will it give you the warm fuzzies, it looks good on any person or business to get out there and support the community. Everyone benefits, including you, your employees, customers, the group you’re sponsoring, and of course, the entire community.
Get ink (or air)
If you’ve got a good story to tell, it’s not difficult to get yourself or your business some great publicity – especially if you’ve used the above tip and support a cause!
Reach out to the online community on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Chances are most of your target audience and stakeholders are already there. You can produce your own videos, write an informative blog, post photos, etc., to share more information about your brand and what your business is up to. You can also have some fun with it.
Host an event
Whether it’s a seminar or a casual reception, invite your best customers and their friends in order to grow your network on a personal level.
Become a public speaker
If you’re comfortable speaking in public, have a good sense of humor, and have useful content or tips to share, presenting a topic that you’re a pro in can be a great way to demonstrate your expertise and create new business inquiries.
What are some creative marketing techniques you’ve seen other small businesses implement?
