10 Ways to Advertise on a Small Business Budget
You're on a budget. And honestly, what small business isn't? But just because you are on a tight budget doesn't mean that you have to get skimpy when it comes to advertising. Here are 10 ways to advertise your company when working with a small business budget.
1. The Yellow Pages
Believe it or not, a lot of people still use the yellow pages to find particular business (although most people go to the Yellow Pages online instead of the actual book). People who use the yellow pages will not find your business unless you're listed in it. Budget for the biggest yellow page ad that is within your advertising spending limits.
2. Newspaper
Local newspapers are one of the best advertising mediums to get your business's name out there, especially when you are hosting a special event or have an important announcement. Many special interest newspapers provide great advertising avenues for small businesses that are looking to stay within their budgets.
3. Direct Mail
Direct mail is extremely effective for small business advertising—and it usually fits in with most budgets. Direct mail is more favorably received than other direct marketing media (i.e. telemarketing). Plus, direct mail is easy to do. If you do not have a mailing list, you can target a geographical area and send out direct mail where that particular market lives.
4. Business Cards
Business cards can be one of the best forms of advertising out there—and most of the time, they produce results. Be sure that you are carrying a business card with you at all times in case you run into a prospective client or customer. Take it a step further and design a creative business card—these modern business card ideas are sure to get your business noticed!
5. Networking (Word of Mouth)
Much like the distribution of a business card, networking and word-of-mouth advertising is one of the most effective, although it is also the slowest. Try to network at professional business organizations in your area. Getting in with a group of like-minded individuals will help you to advertise yourself and your business in the right market.
6. Vehicle/Mobile Advertising
There is a reason that you see so many vehicles emblazoned with advertising: it works! Utilize magnetic signs that can be easily removed from any vehicle. Many businesses have also opted for mobile advertising—trucks that drive around local neighborhoods in order to promote products and businesses. It's a great way to advertise your company without renting out a massive billboard.
7. Local Website Advertising
Make sure that your business is listed on websites that provide business information for your local area. Being promoted on blogs, sites like Yelp and GoogleMaps will help get your name out there.
8. Email Advertising/Newsletter
Sending out an email advertisement or monthly newsletter (through a source like Constant Contact) will help keep your clients and customers in the know without breaking the bank. At the same time, email newsletters advertise what your company may have coming up in the future.
9. Community Involvement
Visible, tangible involvement with your community is more than just good PR: it's also a great small business advertising tactic! Be seen as a business that cares by getting involved with local charities or community associations.
10. Social Media Sites
Need free advertising? Look no further than the hundreds of social media sites on the web. Utilize social sites like Twitter, Facebook, FourSquare and more to advertise your business. Using social media sites is one of the cheapest and fastest ways to advertise today.
If you're looking to advertise your business effectively without breaking the bank, be sure to implement these ten advertising strategies for small businesses. And when more and more customers and clients begin using your products and services, you'll be happy that you did.