How small business can do effective marketing with limited budget

Marketing your business doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Gone are the days when marketing was expensive and scary. 

You can use your creativity to design the effective campaigns in your budget: 

1. Create a website

With life going virtual, the first thing we do when we hear about a new business, is to check out the company’s website.  Your business website covers the basics of who and where you are, what you do, and how to be in touch. A simple website shouldn’t cost much, even if you hire a web designer or use a DIY service such as Wix. Just be sure to choose a clear, easy-to-remember domain name—ideally, [YourBusinessName].com. 

2. Be social media savvy

Promote your brand on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. Keep posts relevant to your brand and share your successes loud and proud. Targeted ads on social media can be highly effective in reaching potential clients. You can also focus on individual platforms. For example, if you have a product or service that lends itself to visuals, you may want to develop a marketing plan just for Pinterest or another image-centric site.

3. Offer coupons

Everyone loves to feel like they’re getting a deal, and that’s never more true than when it comes to trying a new product or service. By offering potential customers a discount, you are attracting people who wouldn’t otherwise have been interested to buy your product.

4. Create a promotional video

Audio-visuals are not only attractive but can stay our brains for longer.  These videos can be attractive and also give out necessary not information, all in a matter of minutes. A promotional video can go a long way in convincing potential customers to try out your product or services.For regular streaming, you can start your own YouTube channel.

5. Grow an email list

Having a list of emails enables you to send out promotional blasts, a company newsletter  and season greetings as part of a branding exercise. Start an email list through opt-in forms on your website and, if you have a physical business, keep an email sign-up form on the counter.6. Network in person.Step  out into the world.  Connect with potential customers at local trade shows and fairs. Joining relevant local group can help you connect with the right people.

7. Sponsor an event or contest

Whether online or locally, this is a great way to get your business’s name out there. Having your name and logo on promotional materials can get people interested and talking about your business while helping you build a presence in your industry.Whether you run an event or contest on your own or combine forces with a charity or local organization such as a school, healthcare clinic, or another business, having your company name tied to something fun and positive is always a plus.

8. Create business cards, brochures, and more

Online marketing can be incredibly powerful, but there’s nothing like having something tangible to hand to someone. Well-designed and professionally printed business cards, brochures, and other promotional items are a great way to get your name on the tips of people’s tongues.Depending on your business and target market, T-shirts, tote bags, refrigerator magnets, notepads, and pens are other classic and effective marketing ideas. Get creative and make your promotional materials stand out- a clever tagline or graphic can mean the difference between your item being a conversation starter or simply getting tossed in the trash.

9. Offer free classes or webinars

People love to learn almost as much as they love “free.” If your product or service lends itself to a class or workshop, design one, get promoting, and then follow through with great content that ties back to your business.