Small businesses often have a tight marketing budget to work with, which can make promoting your business a challenge. Now for the good news, there are plenty of ways for you to market yourself to your customers without spending any (or much) money.
Marketing isn’t about what you spend, it’s rather about what you do.
If you are a small-business owner, it’s time to get creative. Let’s take a look at some marketing strategies that won’t put a dent in your wallet.
Create a Google Business Account
This is especially effective for local businesses and the best part? It’s free! How many times have you Googled for a service/product near your area? This listing simply allows your business to show up on Google maps, the local section of Google Search, and the right-side panel for branded searches.
Get involved in your community
When was the last time you looked to see what was going on in your local community? Is there a charity or non-profit where you could volunteer your services? Can you sponsor a charity walk or run? Could you organize a fun raising event with other local businesses?
Gather those email addresses
Did you know that email is the preferred way of communication amongst customers? Based on this, it’s important that you are collecting and growing your email database. You can encourage people to sign up by offering incentives like discounts, coupons or even a small, free gift.
Blog, blog and blog!
With plenty of free blogging platforms available, why not start a blog about your business? Using your knowledge and experience of your chosen industry, create some informative, educational blog posts for your ideal target market. Use your industry experience to draw them in.
Collaborate with other businesses
Teaming up with a business related to your industry is a great way for you to introduce your business to a whole new audience. You could approach this by collaborating online with a webinar or in person at an event. Even something as simple as placing your business cards at their business address and vice versa could go a long way.
Host an event or workshop
If you cannot seem to find any local events or opportunities, why not create your own? You can host an event or workshop at a library, hall, or co-working space. You can print out flyers and place them on community bulletin boards, use word of mouth and advertise your event online.
Write for industry publications
Did you know there are business websites and blogs that accept guest writers? There are many third-party websites across Australia that are looking for your expertise and knowledge in your chosen industry. Why not showcase what you’ve got and get noticed by a larger audience?
Give new life to past content
Do you have some old content stored away in the archives? If so, why not simply recycle it? For example, you can take a previous blog you wrote 6 months ago and turn it into an infographic. That video you filmed could be turned into a podcast. Get creative and breathe new life into old content.
