Is your marketing budget tiny – or non-existent?
It’s a common problem with local businesses that put everything they make into inventory and payroll.
If you don’t have much to spend on marketing, you might wonder how you can ever grow your business.
The good news is that there are plenty of things you can do to attract new customers without spending a dime.
I’ve compiled 5 of my favorite free marketing ideas for you to try:
#1: Publish a Newsletter
Email marketing is easy and affordable. If you have a small list, you can manage it using a free version of autoresponder software – and a newsletter is a great way to keep people informed about your business.
Newsletter articles can be very short, even as short as 100 or 150 words. Your goal should be to keep people updated on what’s happening with your business.
You can also use it to preview new products and services.
#2: Encourage and Respond to Reviews
You already know that online reviews are important. Most people read reviews before purchasing products. You can use reviews to your advantage without spending any money.
First, you can encourage your existing customers to leave reviews of your business by asking them in person or in an email. You can also link to your review pages from your website.
Once people post reviews, make sure to reply to all reviews, positive and negative, to show reviewers that you care about their opinions.
#3: Film or Write Customer Testimonials
A customer testimonial can do the same work as a review in a slightly more formal way.
People are happy to be asked their opinion and many of your customers may be eager to help you out by filming or writing a testimonial. Testimonials can be shared on your website, blog, or social media pages once they’re completed.
They serve to inform people about your business and demonstrate what you can do for people who buy your products.
#4: Pair Up with Other Business Owners
Whatever your business does, the chances are good that you know other business owners who sell products or services that complement yours.
For example, perhaps you sell furniture and there’s a boutique in your area that sells artwork and decorative items. Identify businesses that mesh well with yours and cross-promote each other’s products and services.
You can do this for free. You can even offer joint packages or deals to attract more customers.
#5: Get Involved in Local Events
Finally, one of the best ways for local businesses to attract new customers is to get involved in local events.
Participating in events can help raise your profile and earn you some goodwill from the people who are most likely to buy from you.
You may also decide to:
– Sponsor a Little League or soccer team
– Raise money for a local charity
– Help with a local street fair
The key is to find things you can do that won’t cost you anything.
If you decide you can spend a little bit, then do it wisely and in a way that’ll help to attract new customers to your business.
Marketing doesn’t need to cost a fortune – or anything at all.
The 5 free ideas here will help you kick-start your marketing even if your budget is non-existent.
