Marketing Schmarketing. Marketing your small business and yourself can be challenging and scary when you aren't sure where to start. Many small businesses fail because of a lack of marketing or a lack of a knowledge of marketing. Marketing doesn't have to be hard or scary if you have the right tools and tips in your back pocket. All small business owners know it can be hard to put yourself out there when you aren't sure how the public will receive you or your business. Don't let the fear creep in and limit your potential. You are amazing and you have something special to offer the world that no one else has...YOU!
Here are some ways you can market your business without breaking the bank.
1. Focus on the problem you solve, not the product you sell. Often times we get caught up in "selling" so much that we forget the customer or client. The client will be more likely to work with you or purchase from you if you emphasize the problem you are solving for them, versus just focusing on the product you are selling. Show them how you can make their lives easier with your product or service. Focus on the benefits of your business and how it will enrich the lives of people around you.
2. Ask your current clients/customers for referrals. What better marketing is there than word-of-mouth? Someone is more likely to purchase your product or service if they hear an amazing review of your business from a friend. Provide amazing customer service and you're sure to see the referrals roll in. And, if you feel comfortable, ask your clients and customers to let their friends and family know if they need anything you are there to help.
3. Social Media Marketing. Make sure that you have all of your social media accounts in order and that you are posting relevant content to them on a consistent basis. Your customers scroll through their feeds when they are drinking coffee in the morning, eating lunch, or taking a break. Make sure you are posting during these peak times to ensure you are reaching your followers. You can even use boosting to get your posts seen by people who aren't following you yet. You can spend very little and get quite a bit of reach to potential customers. Use LinkedIn to connect with other business professionals and share content that is relevant to your business as well.
4. Create a free website. There are many platforms you can use to create a website for free. We use wix.com and we love the options we have available to us to show our content to the world. You can create a blog and write about topics that are important to your customers as well.
5. NETWORK! This is the most important of all types of marketing. Don't be shy. Get out there and join a networking group in your area or a group on Facebook that allows you to share ideas with other businesses in your area. Let people know what you do and why do you it. Share your passion with everyone you meet! If you are interested in joining a networking group on Facebook, we have one just for you. Join here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/711877585904725/?ref=bookmarks
We hope you find the marketing solutions that work best for you and your business. Please feel free to comment below if you have questions!
xoxo - Sarah
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