While it pays to market your business online, and there are many options for basically free marketing in the online world with the use of blogs and social media, if your business has any type of local roots, you really should be promoting locally as well. When it comes to local marketing you are going to have an investment of some kind, but just like any work and business related investment, the hope is that it will give you a return. Plus, local marketing can get you a crowd you may have been missing while you were focusing online, since not everyone uses the internet, and not everyone is on it on a regular basis.
Invest In Paper Marketing Products
Business cards aren’t the only kind of paper marketing products that catch people’s eyes. Consider getting some promotional stickers made, or even some brochures that introduce people to your business without forcing them to get online if they don’t want to.
Business cards are still a wise investment though. Get something colorful, embossed, or that stands out in some way that makes people want to look at it.
Consider Sending Worthwhile Swag
Swag can be something as simple as a button or a pen promoting your business. People like free things, and pens are something they can actually use on a regular basis.
You can also get a little more creative. If you run a bank or some kind of financial business, you may want your swag to revolve around money. Maybe hand out some gold or silver bullions to customers. Package them with a business sticker so they remember who they got the gift of actual money from.
Set Up At Local Business Expos
Don’t take local expos, events, and trade shows for granted. These things can offer you a great way to reach out to more people. Even a local community fair can offer a nice spot for a business to set up and market to people.
Don’t just have freebies for people, have printed information they can take with them, and be ready to talk and answer questions.
Advertise Locally When You Can
Have a local print newspaper or even a magazine? Get a spot in them. The longer you advertise for the better deals you can get on the cost. You may also want to consider advertising in the book put out by your local visitor’s bureau if you live in a tourist town.
You might even want to find out what businesses allow you to post business cards or flyers. A great old fashioned way to be found by potential new customers and clients.
Use the online world as well, especially if you are a business wanting to do more than local sales. Think both global and local and you’ll have all of your bases covered!