10 Low-Cost Ways to Market Your Business

In today’s highly-competitive business environment, actively promoting your business is essential – but it doesn’t have to be expensive to be effective. Here are 10 easy, low-cost ways to “get the word out!”

1. If you don't have a business card and business stationery, have them made up – immediately.
Your business card, letterhead and envelope tell prospective customers you are a professional who takes your business seriously. Once you have them, get them into as many hands as possible (friends, relatives, vendors, prospects, etc.)


2. Use every outgoing piece of paper and electronic document for business promotion.
Include your business name, logo, contact information, phone and fax numbers, email address and URL (if you have a website) on everything you send out. Remember, it’s not just an envelope, piece of letterhead or email; it’s a powerful business promotion tool!

*Use a car or truck in your business? Have a magnetic sign made with your business name and contact information and put it on your vehicle.

3. Send out sales letters to everyone you think might be able to use what you sell. Be sure to describe your business in terms of how your prospect can benefit. Drop a business card in every letter you send out. Also, have sales letters, flyers and other pertinent information printed and ready to go.


4. Be your own publicist!
Send out press releases to local newspapers, radio stations, cable TV stations, or magazines whose audiences are likely to be interested in buying what you’re selling.


5. Network! Attend meetings of professional groups; your local Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, or civic associations are great places to start.
Don’t forget to bring those business cards! Also, learn to ask existing customers, prospects and casual acquaintances for referrals. Make sure to follow up on all leads.


6. Make "cold calls."
Call on the people who you would like to do business with. Briefly describe what you do and offer them a free, no-obligation consultation to talk to them about ways you can help them meet a need or solve a problem.


7. Get samples of your product or your work into as many hands as possible.
If appropriate, give demonstrations of it to whatever groups or individuals might be interested.


8. Write an article that demonstrates your expertise in your field.
Send it to newspapers, magazines, and business web sites. If the editor can use the article, you get your name in print, and possibly get your contact information printed for free, too.


9. Merchandise your company logo.
Put it on complimentary hats, t-shirts, beach bags, etc. These are inexpensive, build goodwill and give your business great exposure!


10. Run a contest!
Make the prize something desirable and related to your business. It could be a free gift basket of your products, or free services.

 

VeriSign

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