Businesses need to get the word out about their products and services. Marketing maybe a little bit harder for a small business due to limited resources. Because of this, business owners must consider setting up effective strategies that are also cost-efficient. One of the best leverages of a local business is its community. When they engage with their community the right way, it can help boost sales and grow the business further.
Here are some tips:
Have a strong visual presence
One way to get your business known is to extend your presence outside your establishment. Partner with a designer of creative custom stickers in NZ. Distribute marketing stickers such as bumper stickers and laptop or cellphone decals. Your brand name will go as far as the items where your stickers are. They will serve as your ‘mini-billboards'. Have an attractive design carrying your business name or logo.
You can even go as far as wall or window decals for homeowners who love to spruce up their homes. Have beautiful quotes that reflect your vision. Do not forget to incorporate your brand name into it. These will serve as good conversation starters with guests. The guests will have an awareness of your business through them.
Join a reliable networking group
A networking group can introduce your business to both clients and partners alike. Many local towns and communities have a Chamber of Commerce. This group will help you widen your connection for other local businesses. You can do cross-promotions for trades related to yours. You and your competitors can also have healthy discussions through one of the events.You can even spearhead a Chamber event.
Local people look at the list of businesses in the Chamber for recommendations, so investing your efforts in this can yield positive results.
Have exciting contests
Stir up the interest of local people through a contest. You can go for a scavenger hunt or have a photo liking contest. Then, put together some of your services or products as a prize.
You can also have a “Create Your Own” kind of contest. For example, if you have a local bakeshop, you can have customers create their flavor of a cupcake. Your staff can serve as judges. Then the winning flavor can be a part of your offerings or the winner can win a cash prize. The point of such contests is that it will bring more customers through your door and lets you engage with your local community effectively.
Nurture the community
One way for people to have a connection in the local community is to give importance to what matters to people. Look for causes or charities you can donate to or actively participate in. When people see that you care, they will feel an affiliation with your business. However, do not do this just to get attention. Do it with sincerity. You will also feel a great difference – and your audience will know the difference.
Take care of your loyal patrons
When you have established a set of loyal customers, be sure to take care of them. You may have loyalty programs that give them discounts on your items and services. You can also give referral discounts or bonuses. The word-of-mouth is still a very powerful marketing tool. Encourage your loyal customers to spread the word about your business.
The business sector may be full of technology nowadays but one of the warmest, most heartfelt, and most effective marketing strategies is still your local community.