As a business owner, you may ask yourself, “Is it really necessary to spend a lot of money on marketing?” Although you need some sort of budget, you don’t have to overspend in this area. I’m here to tell you how to market your small business on a low budget!
You Can Market on a Low Budget
It can seem impossible to compete with big companies who have seemingly unlimited amounts of money to throw at their marketing campaigns. But here’s the good news: you can market on almost any budget! I’m not kidding. By using strategic plans and creative thinking, you can elevate your company.
Now, I’m not saying it’s going to be easy. You’ll need to put in some effort and really think outside the box. But the perfect solutions for your business are out there!
Create a Business Blog
Market your small business on a low budget with a blog. This low-cost (sometimes free) tactic can help raise awareness and bring people to your website. By expanding your online presence, customers are likely to browse your website and understand your operation more.
I advise you to post relevant and helpful information on your blog that pertains to your industry. For example, you may write “8 Ways to Style a Handbag” if you own a handbag or purse brand. Ultimately, you want to use your knowledge to connect to consumers and show them that you are a trustworthy resource in your field.
Start a Podcast
It seems as if everyone has a podcast these days, (I’ve hosted two myself) and you can, too! Podcasts can increase growth by providing a platform to share industry knowledge and valuable content while spreading brand awareness. This platform can also humanize your business, allowing customers to connect with you and your employees. People may relate to your personality or want to support your business as you post more and more content.
If you’re not up to hosting your own podcast get signed up for HARO (Help A Reporter Out) and become a guest on a podcast. Sit down and create a list of what topics you can speak on and why you’d be a great guest, so when an opportunity comes up you’ll be able to respond quickly.
Create a Referral Program
A referral program is word-of-mouth marketing that incentivizes customers to recommend products or services. Reward people for introducing their friends and family to your business. I think it’s best to offer discounts for the customer’s next purchase or give them gifts. But regardless of your preference, the idea is to encourage continuous talk about your business.
Use Cheap Promo Items
Get the most out of a low budget with cheap promo items. In particular, drawstring bags are fantastic promotional items for a variety of reasons, including their visibility. Add your logo to a bag and distribute them at trade shows, networking events, and more! When people wear the bag, they become a walking advertisement. You’ll achieve continuous brand awareness without spending too much money.
You will be shocked at how much your customers love these little bags. I was talking to Janet from Sistas With Bad Habits about a pop-up sale she attended in my area. She said the customers were more excited about her little green draw string bags than their purchases. These little promotional bags left customers with a great impression of her and her brand.
Onboard Brand Ambassadors
A brand ambassador represents and promotes your company. I like to think of these people as your business’s cheerleaders. Brand ambassadors are long-term partners who increase brand awareness and can attract new customers. Depending on your exact budget, you may pay your ambassadors or compensate them with free products or services.
For instance everyone in my family has been given one of my brand shirts. My Dad (the OG) said he had a long conversation about what I do with a gentleman waiting in a line with him because he saw my website on the back of his shirt.
With the right mindset and strategies, you can reach your target audience without breaking the bank. Always refer to my marketing tips to help your operation.
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