Businesses continually search for strategies to
position themselves in the most cost effective way
possible. Samples and coupons may be just the
approach that will work for them.
Most people are familiar with the type of promotion
that offers something free for a limited time or to
a limited number of people. It could be anything
from a cookie sample to free movie tickets promoted
by a radio station. This type of campaign creates
urgency and when done right can work extremely
well.
What small, inexpensive things could you give out
that will keep you fresh in your customer's mind? Or
what can you give away that introduces prospects to
your business in a very cost effective manner.
Prior to giving anything away think through what the
real costs are and what your return on investment
is.
FR*EE CONSULTATIONS
This would work well for designers, makeup artists,
or landscapers to name just a few.
BOOKS
Many authors who speak professionally give potential
clients a complimentary book to add value to what
they bring to a speaking engagement.
MINI WORKSHOPS
This is a great way to introduce people to your
services. Or, you could offer a mini workshop as a
perk to your current customers. Perhaps something
like "Customer Service in the ABC
Industry."
FR*EE PRODUCT
Give away a sampling of your product. Virtually any
business could benefit from this during slow times.
Take a tanning salon for example. They could offer
one free tan during a specified period. Once they
get customers in, make them another irresistible
offer.
One Riverton, Utah-based massage therapist is
successfully building her client base by offering
free massages to a select group of people. She has
done demonstrations with mini massages at festivals,
benefit walks, and outdoor activities. She is very
cognizant about gathering contact information and
doing good follow up.
FOOD
A restaurant could build their name by having a
vendor booth at professional gatherings. Give away
samples of food. Collect business cards for a
giveaway for free dinners. This allows for follow up
and back end marketing.
FR*EE CLASSES
Yoga instructors, martial arts, and even puppy
training all lend themselves to offering one free
class. What a great way for people to be introduced
to what you have to offer.
DONATIONS
Donating your product or service to a charitable
cause often results in positive exposure to
community leaders, charity board members, civic
groups, etc. Just about anything can be donated if
there is a value attached to it. If you have a
facility you are trying to promote, you could donate
the space to a nonprofit organization for one of
their events. This is a win/win in that you are
gaining exposure to a large group of people at very
minimal costs.
FREQUENT BUYER PROGRAMS
This is a great way to offer a benefit to those who
frequent your business. As a customer it is a great
feeling to get a perk when you have been a frequent
customer. Make sure your staff fully understands how
important treating people who redeem their points,
cards, or whatever tracking mechanism you are using,
with complete respect. After all, they are the
reason you are in business.
COUPONS
Coupons as a follow up to a sample will definitely
generate more business, but make sure the offer is
worth a person's time. You can offer 2 for 1 and
discounts. Put an expiration date on all coupons or
you may be held to the offer for years to come.
VEHICLE PROMOTIONS
Your vehicle is a moving billboard. Just Bears and
Stuff, a unique teddy bear and gift shop located in
Myrtle Creek, Oregon, has realized some great
business from having her company name, logo, phone
number and web address on her car. www.justbearsandstuff.com
Granted, mobile business promotions aren't for
everyone, but imagine the number of people you might
reach with the right sign on your vehicle.
As you search for ways to continually promote your
business, what is it that you can offer to your
current and potential customers and clients that
will create value for them and more foot traffic for
you?
Tired of cold calling? Ready to get your foot in the
door of your prospects once and for all? If you
answered yes, get your own copy of 101 Ways to Get
Your Foot In the Door at www.101waystogetyourfootinthedoor.com
Kathleen Gage is an award winning entrepreneur,
keynote speaker and corporate trainer. Get Gage's
F*R*E*E eBook STREET SMARTS EMARKETING Tips
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