Despite the volatility being experienced in the global economy, the opportunity to launch a small business has never been greater. The dynamic of large corporations streamlining their executive roles has left a significant number of well-qualified individuals with the task of redefining themselves as small business owners. Equipped with their unique skill sets, these individuals have effectively launched small firms that offer their unique services at an intimate level. The challenge that each of these businesses face is determining an efficacious method of marketing the business with little to no budget.
There are multitudinous methods of marketing a company on a minimal budget. In fact, there are some methods that are completely free. This article will focus on five marketing ideas that are completely free and are proven to produce efficacious results.
1. Use Social Media
Any list compiled on methods that will allow a small business owner to market their business for free, would be remiss without the inclusion of social media. The massive expanse of the internet has given social media its grand power. By visiting any social media network, a business owner will find a multiplicity of individuals discussing a plethora of topics. There are literally millions of people on any given social media platform at any given time. By investing the time to post content on a regular basis, it is easy to build a consistent and loyal following on a couple of the major platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter. This will allow a business to develop relationships that have the capacity to last.
2. Order Free Business Cards
Using a company such as Vista Print, a business owner can actually order business cards for free. The only downside to ordering the free version is that the back of the card will have printed by Vista Print on it; however, for the business that is operating on a shoestring budget, this is a viable option, at least short term.
3. Create a Free Newsletter
A free newsletter is a creative way of engaging the target audience in a manner that is non-invasive. It allows the business owners to offer relevant content that will help develop the relationship of trust that is vital to building customer loyalty.
4. Collaborate with Other Noncompetitive Business Owners
Form alliances in the same geographical area who offer services that would be complimentary to the services being offered by the business in question. The alliance is based upon a formal or informal agreement to refer customers to one another. A good example would be a financial advisor who partners with a reputable accountant in the area.
5. Claim Your Free Directory Listing
The vast majority of individuals search for listings online in today’s culture. It is estimated that more than 86 percent of local purchases are researched online before the purchases are made. By claiming the free directory listing the business owner can be searched through a number of directories, including Yelp, Google Plus, Yahoo and more. The data that can be submitted to these directories can be quite extensive. Additionally, these directories allow customers to provide reviews of the business, providing the credibility and reputation that a business needs in order to compete.
There are numerous other methods; however, these five will get a small business owner off and running without breaking the bank.