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| For many people Marketing means spending money on advertising, promotions or web sites. Here are 10 ways you can market your business hardly spending a penny. It just takes some of your time: |
- Call 25 of your best customers and ask them what they want from you. Many businesses spend too much time trying to find new customers when they can do more with existing customers.
- Contact all your customers and ask them for referrals. Don't pussyfoot around. Simply say 'You are pleased with my service are there any friends or colleagues you can introduce me to.' Offer an incentive such as a Marks & Spencer voucher when the referral becomes a customer and pays their first invoice.
- Do more networking. Use your contacts, friends and relatives to spread the word about your buisness. Joining networking groups can be a complete waste of money and time.
- Become a Public Speaker - develop a presentation and offer your services. You will be surprised by what you know about your market or product. Many organisations are looking for good speakers to fill gaps in their programmes. Remember Fred Dibner blew up chimneys for a living.
- Cut the advertising budget - for most small businesses advertising is a waste of money. Add the cash to the bottom line or consider spening it on more cost effective, measurable techniques such as direct mail or pay per click advertising.
- Upsell - sell something extra to your customers at the moment they buy from you. A simple tried and tested technique - it works and does not cost you anything.
- Set up joint ventures with people selling to the same sector sharing skills and overheads. But choose partners with care.
- Send emails - no cost of paper and stamps. But to avoid spam zapping make sure they are personalised with strong inviting subject headlines.
- Improve Sales Skills by reading good books on selling skills. Practise on collegues and people who know you. There are many books on selling in the local library business sections
- Do more PR - As with Public Speaking become an expert in your field. Offer your services to the local newspaper or trade newspaper. Writing enticing copy is a skill which can be learned.
To discuss marketing activity call the Marriotts marketing team on 01277 236200 or email chris.edwards@marriottsassociates.com
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