The word ‘marketing’ is often treated as a bad word among small business owners. Many run from it, many avoid it, and many simply don’t do it at all. Unfortunately, the lack of marketing strategy can be the downfall of an otherwise great start-up business. Without a solid marketing plan, it will be increasingly difficult to succeed in the diverse, and fast-paced modern business age, however, Ysais SEO Firm can help you with all of your marketing needs.
Grow Your Small Business By Learning These Tactics
The most common roadblock that small businesses face when marketing themselves, is cost. It can be a huge drain on the budget to dive head first into aggressive marketing tactics. However, with a little bit of know-how and a mind for sales, anyone can market their small business for very little to no cost at all. Let’s take a look at a few ways that small business owners can market their business, and themselves, on a tight budget.
Business Cards Are Incredibly Cheap
While not strictly free, business cards are incredibly cheap. Often you can get hundreds of them for as little as $20. Business cards are an easy and cheap way to spread the word about your brand, product, or website. Simply handing them to those you meet, or leaving them around at local businesses can generate customers. Make sure to leave your contact info, website, and social media!
Network As Much As You Can
Networking is a time honored tradition in marketing that has only become increasingly more popular with technology. Making connections with like minded professionals can not only help grow your business, but it can broaden your reach and influence with other potential business partners. Never neglect the power of a strong network. Even maintaining a strong profile on LinkedIn can be a huge advantage in marketing. Having other business owners and contacts in your circle can be a powerful tool.
Referral Incentives Go A Long Way
Word-of-mouth marketing is the oldest form of marketing alive today. How often have you been influenced by the shopping habits of your friends and family? There is no better way to spread your brand than getting your current customers to spread the word. Offering incentives to loyal customers for spreading the word is a great, and often free method of marketing that you should always take advantage of!
Never Turn Down a Speaking Opportunity
Every once in a while the chance to speak publicly about your business may arise. This may be at a school event, job fairs, conventions, business summits, ect. Never say no. This is a perfect opportunity to market yourself, your business, and expand your network. In most cases, the opportunity to speak will be free, or even pay YOU!
Small Business Collaboration
Small business owners can find themselves feeling like a family. Especially in tight-knit communities. This presents a unique and lucrative opportunity to promote each other, and help the local business community grow. Never overlook the chance to advertise, and help advertise along with other small businesses in your area, or even in your niche. Uniting networks can perform better than those who operate alone.
Final Thoughts
In most cases, the most effective marketing strategies are the ones that require you to get out and make face-to-face connections. In small businesses especially, customers love to know who they are communicating with, and buying into rather than from. So don’t be shy! Get out there, and sell yourself!
