Online marketing is not the only solution when it comes to promoting your business! You have to be able to tackle some offline strategies, too. This is especially important for marketing your business at the local level, or specifically within your niche at networking events.
While your website should shine, there are a few things that can help you gain exposure and brand recognition that do not involve your website. Here are a few examples that you should be thinking about as you consider ways to effectively market your business offline.
- Bulletin Boards: I recently passed a bulletin board covered in ads and flyers, but none really jumped out at me. I saw this as the perfect opportunity for my business (or any other) to really use this space wisely.Developing an attractive flyer will draw attention from those walking by or browsing, especially when the bulletin board is located in a prominent place. Consider the places that your target audience may frequent and take advantage of this still-effective offline marketing strategy!
- Freebies and Giveaways: Any time you offer something for FREE, you will attract attention. Consider this the next time you attend a networking event. The freebies do not have to be big or cost you much money. Use online giveaways that you advertise offline—sending people to your website when you meet them at events or workshops is perfect! This is truly the best of both worlds! But, when you can connect with the potential client personally, or face to face, you can increase your memorability, and use this as a way to initiate a relationship that will hopefully lead to a new client.
- Pull Tabs: Develop a flyer that has pull tabs at the bottom. Or, better yet, a pile of postcards so that potential clients can take one home. When a potential client has something in their hand that will lead them back to you, this is like money in your pocket. Many people will take a look at a website later on when they pick up that postcard or pull tab again. Postcards may be a somewhat better option than pull tabs, only because someone could take your whole flyer, which would then prevent others from seeing it.
Any time you develop materials intended for offline marketing, you want to ensure that they are attention grabbing. This means using big text, interesting fonts, great graphics and memorable headlines. Lead with results! Headlines like, “Get More Clients!”, “Start Your Own Business!” or “Lose Weight Fast!” are going to grab the attention of those in the market for your services.
Don’t limit yourself to online marketing strategies, make sure that you are hitting your target market from every angle that you can to ensure that you are getting as many quality leads as possible.