Running a small business can be incredibly rewarding, but there are a unique set of challenges many people struggle to overcome. It can be hard to initially get the project up and running; this is particularly true if you are competing with recognizable brands. If you’ve recently launched a startup but you are struggling to get your name out there and attract customers, there are different ways for you to get noticed. Effective marketing and PR can attract a lot of the right attention. You’ve simply got to know which tactics are the best to use.
Attend Trade Shows
Trade shows are extremely effective for small companies. They provide the opportunity to meet prospective clients while showcasing your talents. Meeting clients face-to-face allows you to prove why you’re a better choice than your competitors; it also allows your company to seem more human and friendly. To have a successful trade show, though, you need to plan your stall beforehand. Invest in a custom trade show canopy, branded merchandise and lots of helpful information such as pamphlets. What’s more, you need to train your employees so they are friendly and approachable, not solely after the hard-sell.
Social Media
Unsurprisingly, social media is one of the best ways to attract more people to your business, and it works particularly well for smaller businesses. Setting up your social media accounts is easy: set up a professional page where you can promote your products/services, engage with your target base and build a network. Be active and regularly interact with posts and always respond to any queries in a timely fashion. Get some great social media post ideas here.
Host an Event
One of the best ways to get people through the door is to, quite literally, invite them inside. Host an event at your store/workshop or rent somewhere you can host an event. The purpose of your event is so you can advertise your company and the products and services you sell. However, keep the event lighthearted and fun. Decorate, have food and drinks, and leave the formal presentation at home. Socializing is the best way to win over the hearts of today’s generation.
Competitions
Competitions are a great way to establish your brand. This is because they encourage people to do the work for you. Consider giving away a free product or service and have entrants share content on social media to enter - this will very quickly expand your network, and the cost of the product or service will be recovered with the number of new customers you’ve brought in.
Internet Marketing
Internet marketing should never be overlooked, especially for smaller businesses. Digital marketing is accessible and can be cheaper than traditional methods, meaning smaller businesses (with smaller budgets) are able to compete with the bigger brands. Aspects of digital marketing you should focus on including a website, SEO, content marketing, and social media marketing.
It can be challenging for small businesses to establish their brand in the market, and particularly early on. If you are struggling to attract customers and get noticed, then try a combination of the above methods, and you will soon see results.