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When you operate a small business, managing the budget can be a challenge, especially in regards to advertising and marketing. The success of a strategy depends on a variety of factors, so the exact return on investment isn’t always clear. If you’re just starting out, here are a few simple local marketing tips that can expand your reach without overextending your costs.

Affordable Local Marketing Strategies

1. Local Publications

Whether it’s a traditional newspaper or an online magazine focused on culture, local publications can help you reach customers in your immediate area. Contact an editor or writer and see if they’d be interested in an article or interview.

2. Loyalty Program

small businessTo encourage consistency among your current customers, set up a loyalty program that offers a reward after a particular number of visits. The easiest way to do this is with some sort of card. Note, this won’t work for all businesses. For example, it’s much easier for a café or an auto shop to implement this than it would be for a consultancy firm.

3. Regional Specials

If your town has a few special events that are unique to the area, such as a Founder’s Day or regional food festival, consider celebrating those moments through your business, perhaps through a sale or a limited and thematic item. If you have the appropriate type of building, you could also host events for some of the local charities.

4. Referrals

For a simpler approach to local marketing, focus on word of mouth. Offer your current customers future discounts for every new customer they send your way. This is perfect for companies that deal with home repairs, plumbing, or HVAC.

5. Customer Showcase

On your website and social media profiles, reflect some appreciation for your customers and clients. This helps circulate your company name as the customer will want to tell their friends and family that one of their favorite brands or businesses mentioned them. This could take the form of testimonials, links to blog reviews, or reposts to their photos of your product. In regards to the latter, make sure to get their permission first! While many people appreciate the attention, reposting their content, especially a photograph is slightly different. Always ask!

 

If you want more local marketing tips that are specifically tailored to your business, call P2 Business Solutions at (203) 564-9016. As a proud partner of Vivial, the digital marketing experts, they can connect you with the right customers and clients, whether you need to elevate your social media presence or set up an engaging business website. To learn more about these marketing services, visit their website.

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