Promote your business, save some cash

In this economy many businesses, especially small businesses are experiencing a dry spell in their sales and with good reason. Consumers and other businesses are cutting costs wherever possible. Their existing customers aren’t calling as often, and new customers at this point are almost non-existent. What’s the solution? Now more than ever these businesses need to get out there and promote and market their business to find new customers, and stay connected with current customers. Unfortunately that’s a little easier said than done. More than likely these businesses are cutting their costs as well, and my guess is that there marketing expenses are the first to go. Money for promotion and advertising is always more expendable than other line items when your working the books. However, what most people don’t realize is that during these slow times, marketing is what you need the most. Use this time to gain new customers and clients, that way, not only will it help you through these trying times, but when the economy is on the upswing again, you’ll have a plethora of new business that you didn’t have before.

That being said, we’re right back at the issue of having the need to market with none of the money to do so. So what is the solution to this problem that so many businesses are currently facing? Lucky for all of us there are practical, effective ways to promote your business without sucking all of the life out of your bank account. I’ve put together five of what I feel are the more effective ways to promote your business on a very small budget. So let’s not waste anymore time and go over the benefits of each.

Business cards
Now I know what your thinking “isn’t that obvious” and yes it really is. I doubt too many businesses are out there operating without a business card or something that resembles one. But I have seen all too often someone hand me a business card that most people would turn around and throw in the trash. I don’t mean to be to blunt, but I only speak the truth. In most cases your business card is your introduction to new people, or at least a serious part of it. What’s more, it’s the part that people take with them long after your face to face intro is over, it could also be a tool your friends or clients will use to refer new customers to your business. Don’t head down to the local Office Max and pickup tear off cards that you print on your inkjet at home. Spend a little extra and get something that you can be proud to hand out. Maybe even pay a professional to design your card for you (if you haven’t already) the cost is minimal and the rewards will far outweigh your investment. After all, you should be handing these cards out to everyone you meet. You never know when someone might need your service or product now or in the future.

Offer discounts or freebies
Everyone loves getting a break when it comes to spending money, even better is getting something for free. So use this natural behavior to your advantage. Offer a discount to your customers for being so loyal, or offer a free gift to a new customer for giving your business a try. Giving someone a free consultation or 10% off of their first purchase may not seem like much to you, but you would be surprised at how many people will take advantage of a company that is offering a break like this. Besides, what harm can it do to bring someone new in the door. If you offer a good product or service, chances are they’ll be back which is exactly what you wanted in the first place. Like I mentioned before people are looking to cut costs wherever they can. Why wouldn’t they take advantage of saving some cash if no one else is giving the opportunity.

Press Releases
Writing a good press release is one of the best ways to pick up some free publicity. The key is hitting the mark with good content. Anytime your business is doing something or being a part of something that is newsworthy, shoot your local paper a press release. It may take a few tries before it gets picked up, but hey, if it does then it is more than worth it. People love current events and following what is going on in their community. It’s cheap, it’s effective and it reaches the masses. If you’re not sure you can handle writing a good press release there are plenty of legitimate websites out there that provide solid information and valuable tips on getting the most out of your PR writing. You could also hire someone to write the release for you, the cost is usually very reasonable and you can typically have your release ready in a day or two.

Start a blog
The internet is all the craze these days, especially blogging. Setting up your own blog is very simple and can be free if your using sites like Inblogit or Blogger. You don’t need very much technical know how and you can be up and running in minutes. This is a great way to keep customers informed about what is going on with your business and generate buzz within the community. If you have a website, link to your blog from there, add your blog address to outgoing materials like business cards, letterhead, invoices etc. Send out a mass email letting people now about the blog you’ve started. Better yet, find a way to make it news and write a press release. There are many ways to drive people to your blog and if your saying the right things they will come back time and time again.

Local Clubs
The more people who know about you and your business the more people you have talking about it. A good way to meet now folks is to join some local groups around town. Depending on the industry, most towns have special groups just for you and this is a great way to meet new people and generate some leads. Maybe joining your local Chamber of Commerce is a good way to be exposed to new people. Networking is one of the most important things you can do when you are trying to expand your client list and gain new business, so get to it! Get out there and see what clubs or group organization are out there for you to join, pick one or two that best suites you and start making some introductions.

There are always ways to promote your business effectively even if you don’t have endless funds to play with. These are just a few of many options available for getting your name out there, but definitely things that you should be doing to increase your visibility. The most important thing to remember is that marketing should always be a priority. If people don’t see you, then they certainly won’t know your there.

Want to get more ideas about this type of marketing and advertising? Here are some links to get you started on the right path.

http://www.frugalfun.com/22waysmarketing.html
http://www.morebusiness.com/running_your_business/marketing/inexp-marketing-opps.brc
http://www.50freemarketingideas.com/