Recently I had the privilege of helping out some local businesses with ideas on how to get the most bang for your buck with your marketing dollars. It was so successful that I thought I’d share some ideas with you.

I want you to know that marketing is a commitment. It’s not a “flip of the switch” proposition. It takes careful planning, budgeting, execution and measurement. It should be thought

Be an Expert:
In today’s shrinking world, there are numerous opportunities to be an expert in your field. Internet publications are aching for content as well as the many blogs that are out there. You can also put on informational workshops or seminars. I know several people who generate a good number of clients on this principle. If your potential prospects research a product or service (as we know 87% of people do online) and find your article or comments in a blog, they will see you as an expert and perhaps follow up with you for more information or a bid.

Partnerships:
For me, building a business has a lot to do with building relationships. Relationships with vendors, with like businesses and even networking groups. If you sell a company’s products, they may be interested in splitting the cost of some of your advertising as long as you display their logo. Some companies have a co-op budget set aside for just this purpose. You may also partner up with like businesses to advertise or put on a seminar. Let us not forget the principle that you have to give to gain. If you solve another person’s problems from a networking group by referring a trustworthy business, they will be more likely to refer you to potential clients or use your service themselves.

Both of these practices are inexpensive. They are also tried and true methods. You don’t have to spend a million to look like a million.

Now get out there and look good!

Chris Motley
Motley Creations

Tags: Marketing, partnerships.