The following is a guest post from GreatStartups.com.
photo credit: spiderpop
With consumers tightening their purse strings, businesses are working overtime to attract customers and build a brand. Often times with a lean workforce, small business owners must be masters of self promotion to build a successful business.
Here are five free or low cost promotional tips for small businesses to achieve success.
Brand — A recognizable and compelling logo will not only attract the eye and curiosity of a consumer, but help separate your business from the crowd. Professional logos can be expensive when designed by a large agency, but local freelance graphic designers or online design competition sites can be a great, low cost alternative.
Socialize — It is not just a fad, social media is here to stay! With more consumers turning to online networks for guidance on purchasing decisions, small businesses must utilize networks like Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and other social media channels in order to build customer awareness and/or loyalty.
Refer — Nothing builds a business better than the recommendation of happy customers. With an attractive referral program, satisfied customers will be even more willing to share your information with their friends and colleagues. Offering customer incentives or partnering with the local chamber of commerce can be a great start.
Promote — Coverage of your company in the media can be a great way to grow instant brand recognition. Find ways to connect with the appropriate reporter at your local newspaper — whether via friends of friends, Twitter, or other avenues — and consider various online press release services as a cost effective means of spreading good news.
Profile — Company profiles are a great way to build brand awareness and attract potential customers. In addition to GreatStartups.com, there are a variety of websites and blogs that profile small businesses on the rise.