When starting a small business, a powerful and cost-effective form of promotion is word of mouth. However, there are other proactive and essential forms of marketing and advertising. A few low-cost marketing tips for small businesses are always good of course.
Networking may look daunting, but it is important not to fret. An important rule is to emphasize more on listening, rather than on talking. In a networking event, look for opportunities to help others; it is the way to build relationships.
Make your business card unique. Printing on some unusual material like textured card, plastic or wood or giving it an unfamiliar shape is good. You may also offer something special, such as a business tip, on the back. To make it more personal, get your photo printed on it. All of this makes it easier for your customer to remember you and harder for them to throw it away.
Use a newsletter to send people regular reminders about your services. This is a great way to build up a following, and to get potential customers to sign up. It could be as simple as a one-page source of news, including advice and the latest offers for the month.
You could also run a competition or poll on a newsletter or e-magazine. They can be used as a hub for authentic and current sources of information; thereby building up your reputation as a knowledgeable professional.
Customer’s testimonials are evidence of your credibility. It could be verbally given of course, but a short survey for customer satisfaction could be used too. For very positive comments, try to get your customer’s agreement to use their quotes.
Testimonials could be used for a dual advantage. The quote can be used on your website, on your letterhead or newsletter. Use the quote verbatim if possible and mention the name of your client if allowed. This will give your client good publicity if a B2B organization too of course.
Having to make a cold call to your potential customer could be a paralyzing thought. However, this is one highly targeted method for business promotion. You may not achieve an outright sale of course, but then, you could get a lot more information of your customer’s requirements and arrange a later meeting.
It is important to follow some basic rules when making calls. First, speak slowly and make sure you are being understood. Get to know your customer better, instead of heading straight away into a full sales pitch. Preferably, ask for an appointment or permission to send promotional material about your business.
To build up your credibility and increase your business, referrals could be an inexpensive and effective method. You may ask your clients and suppliers for say three contacts of people who might be interested in your business. However, there is no need to be aggressive about it. In return, you could offer three useful contacts from your side.
For a fledgling business, persistence and passion are the two most important skills required. Try and follow these low-cost marketing tips for small businesses given and include them in your regular marketing plan. Without a doubt, these will help to give your profile a boost, and you should be able to find your own way thereafter.
