Local Business Marketing (Free & Low Cost) To Start Doing Today!

Nowadays, it can be incredibly easy for local businesses to stay in touch with leads and customers, free or very low cost.

These simple and sometimes forgotten tactics include online using email marketing and social media or using offline options like sending postcards and having vehicle signage.

But, there are definitely some things your business should be doing as a baseline and then build upon.

The following items are free and low-cost marketing tactics to start doing asap to help drive more leads, maintain contact and followup for continued growth and repeat business.

Let’s start out with some free marketing options you can start doing today.

Email

Do you have an email list? This is one of the best ways to not only use your online forms to create automated customers care but also be able to follow-up with potential leads. Have emails sent when they ask a question, inquire about a free estimate or signup for a newsletter. Have auto emails set up to respond with a special or seasonal offer.

Cost: Can be free using your own email, like Microsoft Outlook, your own website email and even email marketing systems like MailChimp have free starter packages. Get into email marketing systems like Mailchimp starting at $10 a month for more than 2500 contacts and automation (great for beginners and WordPress users, which we suggest).

Social Media

Do you use social media for free marketing? Every business today should be taking advantage of social media. For beginners, Facebook is your likely first stop because many of the prime target markets are on here every day, if your target market buyers include women and men ages 30 – 55. Yes? Then you should have a business Facebook page setup. The best route is to share pictures of projects, share articles (your own preferably or at least shared from industry related pages that you may , show personal side and personality.

Cost: Free to have a Facebook business page. Facebook marketing ads can be used to increase fan base or promoting your page and boosting a post for increased traffic and conversions through your website.

Now let’s take a look at some low-cost marketing ideas.

Signage

Do you use a sign outside of a work area? It’s no surprise that placing a sign outside is visually appealing to neighbors, they see you working on a neighbor house, they will surely pay attention. This is a great way to get new leads just by being seen in the area.

Cost: Can start around $17.29 for double-sided with wire steaks through Signs on the Cheap or $12.23 for an 18” x 27” single side with a stand through Vistaprint.

Do you have signs or wrapping on your vehicle? Driving around in the company vehicle or personal, it’s a great way to showcase the business and get in front of eyeballs on the street. A lead can simply be curating just from sitting at a stop light on your way to the grocery store. But remember, your driving skills are also in play here, so remember to be aware that you are representing your company on the road at all times.

Cost: Can start from $9.95 for 8” x 11” door magnets through Vistaprint.

Business Cards

Do you have business cards? Some may think this is silly and even questionable as to why someone wouldn’t have business cards, but you’d be surprised how many local businesses still don’t have a business card for their customers or leads. Leaving a business card with your customer or contact is huge benefit, not only for follow-up but also showcase what you all do. Plus, this card is a visual reminder to customers when something else is needed.

Cost: Can be $9.99 for 500 at Vistaprint or around $59.99 for 250 from a local business, but shop around with local printing places for prices!