In my previous blog post, 10 Cost Effective Ways to Market Your Business, Part 1, I shared 5 tips for marketing that require little more than time. I learned all of this valuable information I’m now sharing with you in a webinar (of the same name) sponsored by the American Marketing Association. In fact, the webinar was so packed with great information that it’s taking me two blog posts to share everything. Without further ado, here are tips 5 through 1.
5. Tap Into the Power of Google
The omniscient, omnipresent Google has some great tools you can use to strengthen your marketing efforts. Look up the hot topics of the day via Google Trends. Is there something being discussed that you can address in your promotions? Use Google Insights to find out what key terms are being searched for the most; apply your findings to your SEO efforts.
4. Database Driven Email Marketing
When I hear the word database, I am almost immediately lulled to sleep. For me, the word “database” means boring (too closely related to, gag, math), but in the case of email marketing, it means clever. Instead of always looking for new customers, tap into the relationship you already have with your existing customers by using your CMS (customer management system) as the basis for a plan to upsell and/or cross sell to them.
3. It’s An Offer You Can’t Refuse
Never underestimate the alluring power of a limited offer. It could be exclusive to select customers, available for a limited time, include a special feature, or a sneak peek at a new product or service a week ahead of the official launch date.
2. Is Your Signature Working For You?
If the signature in your email messages does not include your website address, phone number, title, and links to your blog and social media profiles, go fix it.
And the #1 most cost-effective way to market your business:
Interact with your customers!
Yes, it’s a no-brainer, but are you doing it? Solicit feedback on a continual basis via a virtual suggestion box and short surveys. Build loyalty with contests, promotions, and events and case studies. Co-present a webinar or seminar with a partner or customer. And be sure your company’s phone number is prominently placed on your website! No one can call if you if they can’t find your number!
Google+Web.com is now offering forums designed to support small businesses in cities throughout the US. Learn more about these forums here: http://Businessforum.web.com/
Tags: CMS, customer loyalty, Email marketing, email signature, Google, Marketing, promotions, seo
Posted in Marketing, small business | 18 Comments »
