As a small business owner, you understand the importance of promoting your business, but you may not know where to start or how you should invest your advertising dollars. Advertising can be tricky, especially when running a small business on a tight budget.
Here are 7 of the best advertising strategies for small businesses that can help you launch an effective advertising campaign without spending alot of your cash, courtesy of the Better Business Bureau.
1. Advertise On Social Media
With approximately 4.9 billion people worldwide using social media, there's no better place to advertise your small business. Each platform attracts a different demographic, so you can reach a broad audience without spending too much money. Research shows that 92% of marketers used social media advertising and ranked it the second most successful advertising method (with search engine marketing coming in first). This strategy is effective because you can target specific demographics, such as location and interests, to ensure you get the most value out of your advertising dollars.
2. Advertise With Your Local Chamber Of Commerce
The Chamber of Commerce is a great place to advertise your small business. It allows you to reach new people in your community on a limited budget, and it's also an excellent way to build relationships with other local business owners. Many locals frequent the Chamber's website, making it an effective way to get in front of new customers.
3. Create And Share Content
Sharing content is a great way to get your brand noticed. You can create original content, such as blog posts or videos, and then partner with brands willing to share your content with their audience.
4. Invest In Paid Search Advertising
Investing in paid search advertising allows you to reach potential customers searching for a product or service similar to yours. With a small budget, you can target a specific audience based on location, browser, and other relevant information.
5. Make The Most Of Online listings
The internet is a powerful tool for small businesses, and one of the best ways for users to find you is through online listings such as Google My Business, Bing, and Yelp, where you can post your address, contact details, and services offered.
6. Get BBB Accredited
The Better Business Bureau is an excellent resource for small businesses. Becoming Accredited with the BBB allows you to list your business on the BBB's website, which is a great way to build your brand's reputation and attract new customers. It also allows you to take advantage of the BBB's valuable resources and tools to help you run your business in a competitive market.
7. Additional Advertising Ideas To Consider
- Place ads in unconventional places, such as store bulletin boards and elevators.
- Run print ads in local newspapers and magazines.
- Promote social media posts (different from sponsored social media ads), such as posts sharing lead magnets or interactive content.
- Run targeted podcast ads.
- Send out direct mail flyers to your local community.
- Set up your Google My Business page.
- Sponsor an in-person event or giveaway.
- Sponsor an online contest or giveaway.
- Start an email newsletter.
- Wrap your vehicle.
If you'd like to implement any of these advertising recommendations but don't have the cash to spare, Quikstone Capital Solutions can help. Quikstone has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Since 2005, Quikstone has provided thousands of small businesses with working capital to create advertising campaigns, purchase new equipment, expand, remodel, or make a special inventory purchase. If you accept credit cards, you could qualify for up to $250,000. Contact us today to get the process started. There is no cost or obligation.
