Many marketing ideas are rather easy to implement. Here’s a few for today…..

1. Take a look at your staff - could they be wearing branded uniforms, hats, shirts, aprons or badges? Can promote your business logo via their bags, computers or equipment for extra exposure? Are they carrying business cards and flyers wherever they go in case an opportunity presents itself?
2. Have you considered classified advertising? This is an inexpensive and effective advertising medium suitable to many small businesses. Options include community newspapers, websites, trade publications, trade press and niche publications
3. Consider a change in marketing strategy to focus on drawing greater value from existing customers rather than finding new ones can be a cost effective strategy. Build and promote a loyalty program that rewards current customers for repeat business or spending more. Provide your customers with a reason to return at identified non-peak times.
4. Don’t make the mistake of focusing on features instead of benefits when describing your business. People don’t buy products and services, they buy what those products and services will do for them. For example “Has an efficient diesel motor so you will spend less money on fuel”. Write down as many features as possible of your product or service and turn your features into benefits by adding the words “so you” at the end of the feature as above. Keep a record of these benefits for use in all marketing communications.
5. Approach your local school and offer a fundraising opportunity - they are always looking to raise funds. Perhaps you could offer school parents a specific discount on our goods or services or a rebate on purchases that go directly to the school. Explore advertising in the school newsletter in exchange for a specific donation or offer.

If you’d like an injection of new marketing ideas visit www.ideasintoaction.com.au. We’ll provide you with 3 new ideas for your business, completely free of charge so you can test out our skills!