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small business marketing, low cost, small budget, advertising
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Marketingon a Shoestring
Budget
Presented by Laura Wiegert, Creative
Consultants
Your image
• Have a professional logo– Can be done cost effectively– Art student; or sketch out first
• Create a slogan/tagline– Use EVERYWHERE
• Have consistency in your visual identity– Ads, brochures, signage, etc.
Tell them about yourself … everywhere
• Fax cover sheets
• Invoices
• Statement stuffers
• Business cards
DIY Marketing materials
• Post Cards– Image, thank you, reminder,
informational
• Newsletter– Print or email (constantcontact.com)
• Business Cards
• Bag Stuffers
• Table Tents
Get Involved
• Join the Chamber• Participate in a Chamber committee
- build relationships• Attend Chamber events
– Network
• Join a Service Club– Chamber has list
• Volunteer with a nonprofit– Related to your target customer
Public Relations
• News Releases
• Hold a PR event to generate excitement
– Coloring contest for kids– Fundraiser (ie, brat fry)– Charitable donation event (ie, % of
sales for a day)– Also make good news releases
Share your Knowledge
• Speak at a service club
• Hold a seminar
• Write a column
• Submit informational releases/articles
• Remember to keep it informational in nature; not SALES
Use the Internet
• Email signature• Broadcast email
– constantcontact.com has free trial
• Web site– Buildmyownsite.com– Bravenet.com (free hosting and templates)– Student
• Search engine submittal• Site linking• Blogs (share your knowledge)
Tap into your customers
• Ask for referrals/recommendations
• Ask for opinion – low cost research
• Follow up to a sale
• Remember to thank them regularly
Miscellaneous
• Cross marketing/promotions with other companies
• Contests or free drawings• Sandwich Board outside business• Window sign/flyer• Stickers - mini signs• Car magnet• Holiday cards - not just xmas • Ask for business• Promotional items with logo
Track your marketing
• Coupons
• Research – Ask customers at point of sale– Send surveys (once a year)– Online surveys
• Surveymonkey.com
• Monitor changes in sales
Tips and tricks
• Be sure to make them part of your annual marketing plan.
• Market consistently and have a coordinated approach.
• Set goals and track your effectiveness
Remember ...
• People buy people (relationships)
• Support those who support you.
• Marketing … just do it. – And if you need help, call a
consultant. Initial consultations are usually free.
Marketing on a shoestring budget
What ideas do you have?
