| Not every small business is blessed with a great | | | | business in your area. They can refer anyone who |
| location. For some kinds of business even one building | | | | comes asking questions and they often have a hand in |
| that blocks the view from the highway can cost you | | | | organising events and markets around town. They |
| potential random customers who might wander in. | | | | should be quite eager to promote locally-owned |
| You've got to get the word out somehow, let them | | | | businesses. |
| know you're there and that you know what you're | | | | 3. E-mail |
| doing. | | | | I'm not talking about spam here, but more a voluntary, |
| The internet is certainly useful, and we'll get to that in a | | | | opt in e-mail list. If you have comment cards or |
| minute, but you shouldn't ignore the low-tech options | | | | something similar, ask for addresses so you can send |
| available to you as a business owner. To start, here | | | | promotional information, news about special events or |
| are a few proven strategies that can reach even the | | | | coupons. |
| most computer-challenged households. | | | | 4. Direct Mail. |
| 1. Make your business cards earn their keep. | | | | This may vary depending on your specific business, |
| Why pay for business cards that the recipient is just | | | | but physical mail can be a great way to deliver flyers |
| going to stow or throw away? Make them useful. | | | | or vouchers. A person who can't be bothered to click |
| Refrigerator magnets, chip clips, mouse pads and pens | | | | a link and print his own voucher is more likely to come |
| are all things that your customers might actually use, | | | | use one when the real thing is delivered right to his |
| and frequently too. Every time they do they'll see your | | | | front door. You might already have your clients' |
| name on there. | | | | addresses. If not, snail mail allows you to target a |
| 2. Use your Chamber of Commerce. | | | | particular geographic area, a great way to bring in new |
| Almost every city has one and it's their job to promote | | | | customers. |