No Money to Advertise?

Having no budget or money to spend on advertising is common in many small and medium size businesses. But that doesn't mean you should stop promoting your business to get new clients and customers, it just means that you need to find another way. One of those "other ways" is by using publicity. Publicity does not cost anything (if it does don't pay). It means that a third party or company is saying something good or bad about your business and will bring attention to it. Attention that people will remember when it's time for them to purchase what you are selling.

You can get this "free" publicity in several ways and you should try all of them. Offer to speak to groups and help them in their life or business. Write a book or article that will benefit the people you are trying to reach. Teach a class at a local high school or college without charging them. Volunteer to support a non-profit organization or fund-raising event. Get interviewed on the radio or TV as an expert in your field. Send newsworthy press releases to the media often. Just get your face and name in front of the public any way you can (except getting arrested!) and people will remember you and your business. All it costs you is your time.

Barry is a business and franchise coach who has over 30 years experience in business. www.idealetter.com