Are you a one-man shop?
Running a business on your own is tough - but you get to keep all the benefits just for yourself, so it has its perks, too.
Most entrepreneurs are on a budget, especially when first starting out. Luckily, being on a budget isn't too hard nowadays, especially with the ability to work from home (no overhead) and using sites that offer free financial software to help with your accounting needs.
But what about marketing? Here's how to go about marketing and advertising your small business while on a budget.
Use social media
The best way to market your business online is by means of social media.
Build a company website, a company blog, a company Facebook page, a company Twitter and a company Instagram, at the very least. All businesses, large and small, are using social media. Don't think of it as a luxury, think of it as a necessary tool to survive.
You should also network with other bloggers and ask if you can guest post on their site.
If they have a good amount of followers, you'll be able to market to a huge audience and it won't cost you a penny. You can also ask if you can interview them and feature the interview on your own website. This will bring in extra traffic (and potential customers) to your site.
Tip: An extra way to bring traffic to your site is by using HARO (short for Help a Reporter Out). Sign up and respond to media queries that you're able to. In return, the media outlet will mention you or your business in their article.
Trying online ads
Facebook is one of the biggest social media platforms.
At around $10 a day, you can place ads on Facebook and target a specific group (age, gender, interests, etc.). Though $10 a day can get expensive, it may be worth trying for a month to see if your business benefits from this.
LinkedIn Ads is another great way to advertise your business.
This connects you to other businesses, so it's only recommended if you're looking for business-to-business advertising, versus advertising directly to consumers. Eventually, you'll want to advertise to both businesses and consumers.
Build relationships
Businesses that are honest, reliable and treat their customers well are the ones that often do the best.
Work daily on your relationships with people (friends, current customers, strangers, etc.) and you will see your business grow. People want to do business with people that they like - so work on your own character and be the person you would want to be best friend's with.
Always ask customers for referrals.
If the customer enjoyed doing business with you and likes your product or service, they won't mind helping you out and giving you some referral business. Even if they don't know anyone at the time that might need your services, it's always worth it to ask and to give them a few of your business cards for future use.
Market in your community
It doesn't cost anything to post a flyer in your local coffee shops or on mailboxes in your area. Though it may not bring in thousands of customers, it may bring in a few locals that can help spread the word of your new business venture.
Participate in fundraisers and give a portion of your proceeds to a local charity.
Again, it won't necessarily bring in the most business, but it will get you recognized. Plus, it's always good to give back.
Remember, people tend to prefer doing business with companies that give back regularly.