If you are operating under the assumption that "if you advertise it, they will come," then you are going to be disappointed with your marketing efforts. To truly gain new customers for your business, you are going to have to apply marketing strategies that require you to be creative.
Don't Overlook the Importance of Having a Blog
Most business owners in the twenty-first century already understand the necessity of owning a website for their company. However, companies such as MarketingExchange also promote the importance of having a blog. The updates that you make to your blog will not only connect you to potential customers through search engines, but they can also highlight your knowledge of the latest industry trends.
Create a Variety of Linkable Content
Whether you are using Facebook, your blog, or your website, make sure that you are not just putting out walls of text. Having text conversations is very important, because those conversations are essential ways to demonstrate your expertise in and your passion for your industry or product. But you also need to have your name associated with videos and pictures that can easily be linked to by people all over the Internet. This type of viral marketing strategy will provide the kind of name and brand recognition that you need in order to be successful.
Get Involved With Your Community
Joining local businesses or participating in local charities are great ways to market your company. Local business organizations can provide you with referrals, while participation in local charities can provide you with free press. Both of these have the potential to result in new customers.
Interact on Twitter
Twitter allows you to put a personality onto the face of your business. Each Tweet you send should allow you to interact in a way that shows off the type of personality you wish to have associated with your brand. Each Tweet should also work towards the goal of demonstrating your industry experience and expertise.
Offer Free Services or Classes
If you own an exercise company, you might offer free classes to the local assisted living facility. If you are a local artist, you could offer free art lessons at the park during the summer. Make your free classes or services fun, and you'll enjoy the benefit of positive word-of-mouth. You may even receive repeat customers, who will be willing to pay for the services that you initially offered for free.