Without a doubt, online marketing is crucial for startus and SMEs. Not only will online channels give your brandexposure, but it will also help build authority in your particular niche. However, for a growing business, you should never completely put offline marketing off the table.
Keep in mnd that some of the biggest brands known to man today are built with offline marketing tactics. However, unlike before, you do not need a big marketing budget to give your brand a big boost.
Here are some low-cost offline strategies you need to consider:
1. Event sponsorship
Many event organisers, from nonprofit fundraisers to other small events organised by schools or small groups, look to businesses to offset some of the event costs.
In exchange for a donation or sponsorship package, event organizers typically display a banner or other advertisement for the contributing business. By sponsoring an event, you can can get your company’s name in front of potential customers.
2. Make good use of your business card
Using business cards to lure in prospects is probably one of the most cost-effective offline marketing tactics. To make the most out of them, you need to drop them anywhere you can.
To spice up your business card, you can include a QR code that leads to your website when scanned with a mobile device. Simply use a free QR code generator and copy the image to your business card design.
3. Network
Relating to industry leaders and people who are regular users of your products/service, and potential customers would get words about your business out there.
Join clubs, business groups and associations that attract prominent business leaders. Get to know people who may know potential customers of your business and request for ways you can be in touch to market your business.
4. Speak at Events
Find an event related to your industry and prepare an educational and meaningful speech. This leaves a lasting impression with peers who share a position in your industry and creates a visual representation of your business.
If you don’t feel you have enough industry authority to deliver a speech to peers, it’s still helpful to attend the events. Introduce yourself and network with others. The relationships you build could help move the marketing dial elsewhere.
5. Give out branded products
Giving something away with your branding on it can be quite powerful. People keep pens, for example, for ages and having your brand in front of them will remind them of you often.
They might not need you now, but down the line, they might need your product or service and because your pen has put your brand in their subconscious mind, you will be the first they think of.
6. Celebrate successes
Host a party, business gathering, or some form of celebratory event to share your success. Maybe you reached you landed a big partnership or launched a new service. Reach out to the local press to spread the word.
Take the opportunity to acknowledge your team and encourage future successes. Your celebrations are bound to catch the attention of your target audience and secure you some future business
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