An often overlooked tactic for online businesses is marketing their business offline. This can increase income and profits when done properly. Here are five powerful ways you can market your business offline.
Business cards- Whenever you think about marketing a business offline, business cards always seem to be the top choice. They've been around for years because they work. Anytime you find yourself at an event then hand your business cards out. The trick to making it easier is asking someone else for their card first and then give them yours.
It's possible they don't have one. In order to overcome this objection we recommend carrying blank cards yourself. This gives them an opportunity to provide you with the information and you get to give them your business card. Just make sure your card has the following; name, business name, URL, and your title. You also might consider using the other side to offer discounts or consulting.
Press Releases- If you want maximum exposure then press releases should be a necessity. Unless you hire someone to write it for you these end up being free. Then again; you could utilize a distribution service to get the word out in your local area. After all, the local press always seem to eat up a nearby success story. Don't forget to include the appropriate contact information either.
Another thing to consider is the local contacts. You have to find a good one with the local media, because a lot of them are picky about what their viewers see. No one wants someone who is using a press release for golf repairs to be advertised towards second-hand baby apparel viewers. It just doesn't make sense. It always has to be in the same niche.
Volunteering- Yep, those good deeds you're giving to the local community can definitely be returned 10-fold. It's all about putting your business in a positive light, which is an easy way for people to start talking. However, don't just do it for the attention; do it because these types of things make you feel good! There are plenty of places to go, but you will have to do a little research.
The only thing we recommend staying away from are the groups that are too political and controversial. Now, if that is the type of people you need to cater too then it's a different story.
Joining Groups- You name it and there seems to be a group for everything today. There are several different networking groups out there that can help you promote your business. While this is true; you should also consider the non-business networking groups as well. Just find something interesting and go from there.
Taking this approach is very similar to joining online groups. You shouldn't promote your business openly, but should take the time to participate, volunteer, and only let them know about your business when it's appropriate.
Speakers Bureau- If you can take the time to get on a speaker's list, you will be able to establish yourself as an expert. Talking about different areas of your business or the overall niche can be extremely helpful. Maybe you want to teach others what you do online. Once you go through this you can offer your services. You can also speak in classrooms, the chamber of commerce, women's business groups, and other areas as well.
Don't forget about setting up and offering workshops, training, coaching, and consulting. All it takes is a venue and some stellar marketing efforts. In fact, some people even charge others to come listen. If you do speak free then have some of your products ready to be sold. When you become a master in this area you can command a big fee and travel expenses.
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