Last year, I realized that a few of our employees did not have the best intentions when they came to work. It seemed like their goal was to slack off and avoid work, and it was really frustrating. I realized that I had to do something in order to make things right, so I started working with them to train them. I also installed a camera system and explained the consequences of their actions. Within about six months, we were able to completely overhaul things, and it made a huge difference. This blog is all about keeping employees productive and on track, so that you can keep your company viable.
Grace Hanson
If you own or manage a new small business, you probably spend a lot of time trying to figure out how to market yourself within a reasonable budget. Of course, you can always use social media and traditional press releases. And here are four other ways you can market your enterprise without dropping a ton of money.
Use Your Car
Think about how many people in your community see your car every day. While completely wrapping your car in an advertisement for your business may seem a little tacky, consider using magnetic signs that you can apply to your doors and trunk. These are especially good for service industries to let everyone where you are parked know you are fixing a roof, shoeing a horse, or cleaning an office.
Car decals are another way to promote yourself. They are inexpensive to print, and you can share them with friends and customers.
One more way to use your car to full advantage is to get a vanity license plate with the name of your business on it. Every time you stop at a traffic light, someone will be staring at your company name.
Print Business Cards
Many people think that business cards are an expensive proposition. Not so any more. You can have professional cards designed and printed inexpensively, or you can even do them at home on your computer with blank cards purchased at an office supply store.
Use Sticker Labels
While business cards may be cheap to print, letterhead can be more costly. You can always order sticker labels to put on your correspondence, invoices, and envelopes.
Today there are many interesting shapes to choose from, and you can incorporate your company logo and vital information. A label company can help you design a sticker that looks professional and memorable.
If you make a product, whether it's homemade candles or gourmet jam, be sure to put your own label on it. Choose a label that best suits its purpose. For example, there are tiny safety stickers you can adhere to the bottom of candles and ingredients labels made to go on small food bottles. Make sure your company name appears on all of them. Contact a company like Northwest Label for more info.
Donate to Nonprofits
You don't have to donate cash to a nonprofit to earn recognition. There are certain to be local charities or clubs in your area that would love in-kind donations of goods and services for raffles and other fundraisers. Depending on the value of your donation, your business could wind up with a prime spot on a program or event website.
While often the best way to get business is through word of mouth, you need to get a toehold somewhere to gain those first customers. Try one of the tips above, and track your progress to see which way work best for you. If you ask your customers how they heard of you, and they mention one of these methods, bingo! Success!