Small businesses often have tight marketing budgets that prevent them from aggressively pursuing advertising goals. This is a major hindrance that can affect the growth of the company. Another problem this poses is that small businesses find it difficult to catch up with richer competitors.
The need of the hour is free marketing ideas that can help your business grow in the right direction without spending big bucks. We have listed some free marketing ideas here to give your brand a big boost without spending a cent. Go through the ideas mentioned below and adopt one or more to ensure that your business grows in the right direction.
#1 – Get featured on Google My Business
Google My Business or GMB is a popular listing on Google that facilitates your company information being showcased by Google in different results.
GMB is beneficial for local businesses and you should create a profile immediately. A free GMB listing ensures that your business shows up:
- On Google Maps
- The local section of Google Search
- The side Knowledge panel of Google Search
So, create and fill out your Google profile completely for optimal search results.
#2 – Use the power of Content Marketing
The benefits offered by content marketing cannot be ignored. The right content can strengthen your position on local SEO results to ensure that your business gets found online.
Here is what you should do:
- Use quality and keyword-rich content on your website, including the About Us page, Products and Services page
- Create keyword-rich articles for your own blog and 3rd party sites
- Create Case Studies, eBooks and Whitepapers that are relevant and useful for industry members
- Create infographics with visually appealing stats that will quickly gain shares and widespread attention
- Create videos and upload them on to YouTube and other popular sharing sites to get traction for your brand
#3 – Send out frequent Email Newsletters
Focus on email marketing through newsletters and strike a chord with your target audience. You can easily find newsletter templates online to get started.
Also, make sure that you use catchy subject lines for all your business emails. This will ensure that your emailer campaigns don’t go to waste.
#4 – Create profiles on all major Social Media networks
Social media platforms allow you to promote your business for free and engage with thousands of followers. All you have to do is ensure that you create regular posts. Also, you will have to respond quickly to feedback – whether positive or negative.
You could also run social media contests to gain more visibility. However, you will have to invest in giveaways as prizes. You can choose from inexpensive promotional products on our site and use them as gifts.
#5 – Partnerships with other businesses
A major benefit of developing partnerships is that you’ll be able to treble your marketing efforts while gaining access to a broader audience. Just make sure you don’t partner with a business that offers the same services you do.
You have to search for a business with a service that complements your service. For example, if you sell car tires, you can partner with a garage or a used car dealership.
#6 – Use Hashtags frequently
Incorporate hashtags into your social media marketing strategy to gain instant attention. Use keywords from trending topics in your hash tags to gain the attention you need. Some examples of hashtags include #startups, #marketing and #smallbusiness.
#7 – Host a Webinar
Use web conferencing platforms such as GoToMeeting and Webex to host and broadcast your Webinar with a few clicks. Ensure that the material covered in the webinar is useful and targeted at industry members. Promote your Webinar on social media or through email newsletters before the event so that people don’t miss it.
#8 – Take part in Industry Events
Attend trade shows, industry conferences and local events to promote your small business. These events feature the best business minds – it’s the perfect opportunity to network and create some business relationships. You could also choose promotional trade show giveaways from our inventory to ensure your participation is a success.
#9 – Rely on Employees for Word Of Mouth
Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth. Use your employees as a marketing vehicle to gain good word-of-mouth. Sit with your employees and engage with them. Ask them for tips on improving your business. Their word-of-mouth among family and friends will provide you with amazing leads.
Did these free marketing ideas inspire you? Implement some of these ideas and let us know how they work for you in the comment box below!