Getting Your Foot in the Door: 5 Innovative Ways to Market Your Small Business

Rose McKellen

September 17, 2013

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One of the most challenging tasks for any small business is finding ways to make themselves stand out from the competition. To succeed in today's highly-competitive business world, a business must be able to find ways to put themselves first in customer's minds when thinking about who to call. When it comes to marketing, the more innovative a business is the better. While it may be difficult to decide which marketing options to use, there are several innovative ways a business can get itself noticed by the public.

E-Newsletters

The key to small business marketing is to get noticed by as many people as possible, and advertising in e-newsletters can do just that. Often an arrangement can be worked out to get some advertising space in a newsletter in exchange for a small fee or providing a service to the business. Many businesses use the services of a graphic designer to create an eye-catching logo to use in these newsletters.

Outdoor Advertising

This form of advertising can range from traditional billboards to newer methods such as advertising on benches at college bus stops or giving company vehicles a distinctive paint job that gets them noticed on the road. Street sign advertising and using electronic signs set up in various locations can also help spread the word.

Promotional Events

Hosting promotional events can be a big boost to business. While it can be expensive, it's also a great chance for lots of publicity. Many businesses use publicity stunts during these, such as skydivers jumping out of planes or using live models as mannequins modeling the latest fashions.

Something for Nothing

Everyone loves getting something free, no matter what it may be. Customers getting free stuff are always in a good mood, so giving away canvas bags with your business name and address will always be popular with shoppers. Offering those who use the bags a discount will be an even better way of building goodwill and additional business.

Gift Card Giveaway

Mailing out gift cards in various dollar amounts to customers is a great marketing strategy. It not only gets them to your business, but also makes them very happy. Most amounts should be low, such as five dollars. But having a few ten or twenty dollar prizes can also build excitement among customers.

By using these innovative strategies, a small business can be well on its way to building a customer base that will be loyal in years to come.