Importance of Marketing Your Freelance Small Business Offline
by Kara Kelso http://www.momsmarketonline.com
The internet is a wonderful source of information and millions
of people that could be your customer. Although we need to
keep in mind that there are millions of others just like you
fighting for that business. This is why it's important to
tap into the offline world - people that you would never meet
online. Starting with your local community, let's talk about
a few things that you could do to market offline.
Market Your Freelance Small Business to Your Local Community by Promoting and Marketing Offline
~ Market and Promote Your Business at Events - (craft shows, bazaars, fairs, etc)
The online world dies down during the summer, so this is a
perfect time of year to improve your offline marketing. Check
with local offices (Chamber of Commerce, City Hall) and also
your local mall.
~ Marketing & Promotion of Your Business at Drawings and contests
These can be done
at local restaurants or other small businesses. Perfect for
smaller towns with only a few businesses. Talk to the owners
about setting up a box for a drawing for free products that
you offer, donating a free lunch/gift certificate at that
particular business, or both.
~ Marketing & Promotion of Your Business by Advertising with your car
You shouldn't
expect a whole lot of business from doing this, but the main
purpose should be to get your name out. It takes several times
of someone seeing the name of your business before they buy,
so the more you can get it seen the better!
~ Networking Your Freelance Home-Based Business with Other Small Business Ownersin your community /getting involved
Join
the PTA, Chamber of Commerce, charity groups, etc. Attend
town meetings and be aware of the people and events in your
community.
~ Promote Your Business at Catalog shows
Offer hostess benefits for
those doing catalog shows for you. Ask current customers if
they would like to earn their favorite products for free.
~ Promoting & Marketing Your Small Business to New Mom Packs/Welcome Wagon
Again check
with the local offices and groups
Now for the challenge - choose one idea that you have never
done before, and start making plans.
Aim to at least have
your plans done within a month. You can check your progress
with groups taking the challenge at the WAH Career Fair - http://www.wahcareerfair.com
Good luck!
About the author:
Kara Kelso is the owner of Mom's Market, which is
an online mall where shoppers can support mothers by purchasing
products and services from a mom-run business. Visit: http://www.momsmarketonline.com