FIVE EASY AND INEXPENSIVE WAYS TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS Elaine Regus ERPR

1. 30-Second Sound Bite Response to “What do you do?” Informally written and memorized Name of business Main product or service Who your target customers are One benefit you provide to those customers

More 30-Second Sound Bite Avoid big words, technical words, jargon or slang. Once you write it, make sure you use it at every opportunity. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll feel saying it.

2. Create a Website Websites today are as common as business cards Many simple and affordable web hosts that offer step-by-step instructions to help you create the content and design with a few easy tools for just a few dollars a month

Website Details Choose a domain name Basic website content: Home page; Product or Service page and Contact Us Keep it simple and uncluttered. Target your customers and focus on benefits. Optional pages: Success Stories; Testimonials; Career Opportunities; Portfolio; Newsletter; Executive Bios and Company History Include your business name, address, phone number and on every page.

Home Page Introduce yourself. Pick three main benefits your company provides. Briefly describe how each one can improve your customers’ lives or businesses. Use informal language; speak to the customer.

Products/Services Page Describe your three main products and/or services Give the customer a reason to get excited about your products or services. Tell them the one thing special about your business that sets you apart from the competition.

Contact Us Page Tells potential customers how to reach you to place an order or for more information. Always include a Call to Action. Calls to Action can be simple: Call today or Visit our store. Better yet, offer potential customers a benefit such as a discount, a free product or a booklet. Make sure to include your business name, logo, tag line (if you have one); mailing address; phone number; fax number and address.

3. Write a Media Release Media releases help promote your business, attract new customers, and provide solutions. New can include: Grand opening; New product or service; Changes in location or products; Website launch; Awards/recognition; New hires; Hosting event Include: Who, What, When, Where, Why, How, How Much and Why Should I Care.

Writing Tips Keep it simple and direct. Limit it to one page. Good quality photos increase the odds that your release will get published. Include all contact information. Be newsy, not salesy.

Release Distribution Your own website your clients Local newspapers Trade publications Business journals Association newsletters

4. Marketing Cheaper than direct mail, newspaper, radio or TV ads Variety of companies like Constant Contact help you design professional-looking s at very low cost. Keep it simple and brief. Personalize it to the individual customer. Subject line needs to be catchy: The Upside of Getting Sued; Is That a Size 9 On My Butt (Philipp Lomboy of Marami Marketing Group)

Marketing Types Newsletters Promotions Events Coupons Specials

5. Networking Always have your business card handy Make sure friends, family and people you meet socially know what you do. Marketing Expos Chamber of Commerce events Networking is a two-way street Use it to build relationships Work it!

Finally If you’re still intimidated by the process or don’t think you have the time for these do-it- yourself techniques, contact a professional writer, graphic artist or website designer. Their services are tax deductible. The benefits are priceless!