We’re not all working with a loaded bank account – especially with a business in its infancy. Marketing is the key to making the whole thing go, and you can’t afford to skip the process. Although it requires some creativity and unconventional approaches, low budget marketing is the perfect option for many owners of small companies who need a little kick start on getting some cash in the bank.
First Things First, Manage Your Finances Properly
Many newer small companies have a lot more money going out than coming in. That’s why loans and financial services are so important. Careful money management will assure that you’re able to keep your head above water until you have thousands of loyal customers or clients who are eager to shop with you.
Be aware of every specification of the banks you use. You need to know when you can count on them and what you can count on them for. No two banks are the same. The Leeds Building Society opening times are different from the Virgin Money opening times, and the services offered at each location can vary significantly. Before you go spending any money, make sure you have a detailed plan to manage the way it’s flowing in and out of your business.
1. Use Real Reviews
One of the easiest ways to get new people interested in your product or service is to use real reviews from satisfied customers. This is how most people make a determination on whether or not a product or service is legitimate. If they can see someone just like them using and enjoying what you offer, the benefits will become a little clearer.
Pepper your website or social media with real testimonials. If you have video reviews, that might work even better. It helps to confirm the fact that an actual person, rather a bot or anonymous author, contributed valuable feedback that will influence their purchasing decision.
2. Be Fun, Personable, and Interesting
Companies are constantly in the spotlight for the way they behave online. Most of the time, this is a good thing. Some of them use snark or humor to convey their message. Others are helpful, positive, or highly interactive. Let your brand be a person that talks to people. Develop a brand voice, and put all of your copy in this brand voice. Sooner or later, people will see you as more of a friend than a store.
3. Reward Loyalty
Getting customers may cost a lot of money, but keeping customers costs much less. You need this repeat business to generate a predictable income that will allow your company to expand, innovate, and evolve. Reward customers for coming back to you the next time they need a similar product or service.
Rewards can come in the form of loyalty points that can be exchanged for coupons, exclusive deals, or free products or services. Things like early access to new products or special samples may be enough to incentivize people to stay in the know.
4. Make Videos
Anyone can write anything on the internet. Most people never really know the author of the things they see. Video removes that veil of anonymity. Videos that demonstrate your product or service in real-time are extremely helpful to potential customers. They’ll get answers to questions they didn’t even know they had. How does this dress fit? How do I use this kitchen appliance? How do I apply this makeup? How do I interact with this software? A video will tell them.
Conclusion
Great marketing doesn’t need to be expensive. It merely needs to be thorough, helpful, and engaging. Don’t drop a bunch of money on text ads that give you minimal control over the outcome. Save a few bucks and create something worthwhile in the process.