One common presumption is that marketing your business should cost you a ton of money. But there are a lot of ways to do an affordable marketing campaign that really works. Here are just some of the marketing ideas that are free or will cost you close to nothing.
- Utilize social media to your advantage
Social media is a popular thing and you need to use that to your advantage. Social media marketing has proven to be one of the most effective and cost-efficient method of attracting and retaining your customers. All you need is a good internet connection, your time, some creative content, and you are good to go – no need to spend a huge amount of money.
How do you market your business using social media? One idea is you can set up a blog and publish free and amazing content that people will surely go back to. Promote your business and give it enough exposure through your blog. Build a community for your customers and create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere. Reach out to your customers in real time. Initiate online contests or giveaways. The marketing possibilities with social media is boundless – get creative and be fearless.
- Create valuable and shareable online content
Create online content that your target market will be interested in and will also share on their social media profiles such as tutorial or instructional videos and infographics. Include your business name and logo on these materials so people can trace it back to your website.
- Set up photo booths at events and tag people on social media
Given that you have some photography skills up your sleeves, you can definitely set up a photo booth at events or even roam around and take photos of the attendees. Ask for their name and tag them on social media; or to drive even more traffic, give them your business card and tell them that they can check out their photos in your Facebook page. Watermark their photos with the name and the logo of your business so that you can also advertise to their online friends.
- Get active within your community
For businesses with physical locations, try connecting with your surrounding community by being active in the local events. Distribute some small tokens during these events, like foldable fans with printed name and logo of your business during noontime parades. Keep abreast of your local events and participate in them with the goal of promoting your business.
- Collaborate with other businesses
Team up with other businesses around your area to double your reach. Come up with promo schemes in partnership with the other businesses. For example, if a customer spends a certain amount in your shop, they are then entitled for a discount at the other shop, and vice-versa. Or, if a customer buys something at the other shop, he/she will then get a freebie at your shop. It’s your pick!
- Ask for a review from your satisfied customers
If you are certain that a customer is satisfied with your products or services, ask them right away for a good review on your website or on other popular and well-trusted review sites. Most of your happy customers will not mind to do the favor.
- Design unique and fun business cards / flyers
A lot of people can easily throw away common-looking business cards and flyers – so make sure that yours is something unique and fun. Do not underestimate anything that you give out as it may just generate enough curiosity and exposure for your business.
- Have you heard of business awards?
Do some research for any awards given in your industry and try applying for these. Some awards do require you to spend money so carefully select one that will not be too costly for you but will still give your business enough exposure to your target market.