Market Your Own Business
By Janet Barclay, MVA
Many entrepreneurs struggle with finding customers, especially in the early stages of the business. Some spend a large sum on advertising, only to find it isn’t leading to the results they expected. Others decide to hold off on marketing until they have brought in enough income to pay for it, and then discover that without marketing, they’re going to have a hard time generating that income.
Fortunately, there are lots of marketing strategies that you can implement yourself without breaking the bank. Here are just seven:
1. Your 30 Second “Infomercial”
Develop a message to introduce yourself that clearly defines what you do and the type of referrals you are looking for. You can use this introduction not only at formal networking events, but any time you’re talking to someone about your business.
2. Your Business Card
A business card is one of the least expensive marketing tools at your disposal – don’t be caught without one! If you’re holding off until you’ve reached a decision about your business name, logo, or other details, that’s fine – there’s no sense buying 1000 cards, only to toss most of them out – but in the meantime, you can print up some decent cards on your own printer. Be sure to use a good quality product like Avery’s Clean Edge Business Cards for a professional image.
3. Start a Blog
You don’t need any special technical skills to become a blogger. It’s been said that if you can send an email, you can post to a blog. Give it a try! You can always upgrade to a customized template and hosting service when your budget allows it.
4. Spread the Word
Be sure to tell everyone you know about your business! Just because your dentist isn’t in your target market doesn’t mean he doesn’t know someone who is! We all know at least 200 people, so rather than assuming that someone wouldn’t be interested in your products or services, assume that they will!
5. Flyers
Flyers are another marketing tool that you can produce using your own computer and printer. Again, make sure you use quality paper, and ask someone to check it over for spelling or formatting errors before you print multiple copies. Perception is everything – if your flyers are sloppy, people will assume that your work will also be sloppy.
6. Donate Gift Certificates
Organizations are always looking for items that can be used as door prizes, silent auctions, and other fundraising activities. Ideally the recipient will end up buying additional services and providing you with a testimonial and/or referrals, but even if they don’t end up cashing in the certificate (as often happens), it’s a great way to get your name out there, and costs you next to nothing.
7. Public Speaking
Networking groups and other organizations are always looking for people to speak at their meetings, and this can be another great way to get your name out there. If you hold a draw for a gift certificate or small product, you’ll be able to collect contact information and follow up with those people at a later date.
Take a look at what others are doing, and get a sense of what feels right for you and will be effective for your business. Let your imagination go wild and remember – marketing doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.
About the Author
Janet Barclay, Master Virtual Assistant and founder of Organized Assistant, provides administrative assistance and website services to coaches, professional organizers and other small business clients. Learn more about Janet and her business by visiting her website www.organizedassistant.com and her blog www.janetbarclay.com.
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