Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Table of Contents
Whether you’re a brand-new small business owner or a seasoned entrepreneur, it’s always a good idea to take advantage of free and low-cost marketing options. From social media posts to customer events, there’s a lot you can do to promote your business and build customer loyalty without spending a fortune.
Here, we’re covering 13 inexpensive marketing ideas to boost your small business any time of year.
- Social media
- Video content
- Email newsletters
- Directory listings
- Business cards
- Loyalty programmes
- Business partnerships
- Business partnerships
- On-the-go branding
- Local press
- Customer events
- Community sponsorships
- Personal touches
1
Social media
Most social media platforms are free to use and many offer low-cost advertising options in addition to organic posting. When it comes to using Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter or LinkedIn for your business, make sure you create on-brand posts, share regularly and engage with your followers. Get creative with a mix of in-feed and Stories posts to diversify your content and keep followers excited.
VISTAPRINT TIP
An easy way to boost engagement and gain new followers is by running a giveaway – giving away a piece of merchandise or a service should be relatively low-cost for you. Encourage followers to tag their friends in the comments or share your post on their own page to attract potential customers.
2
Video content
With free streaming platforms like YouTube and TikTok readily available, take advantage and start creating dynamic content for your business. Whether a stop-motion video of your ceramics process or a tutorial on kneading bread, on-brand video content can help elevate your brand.
3
Stay connected with customers digitally – email newsletters are a great way to share updates about your small business, send promotional offers and reinforce your brand identity. Use your newsletter to share new video content and blog posts too! Encourage customers to sign up for your newsletters to receive subscriber-only offers and get early access to sales.
4
On-the-go branding
If you use any kind of vehicle for your small business, make sure it’s branded with your logo and contact information.
Whether it’s a delivery truck or an electric scooter, an informational sticker or magnetic sign can spread the word in a cost-effective way.
Maximise your mileage – order a magnet for each side of your car.
5
Branded packaging
Get your brand out there by letting your customers do the work. Think: paper bags stamped (or stickered!) with your logo and branded reusable tote bags.
Bag customer orders in a fabric tote – they’ll use it again and again and spread the word about your business.
6
Community sponsorships
Could you sponsor a youth sports team or participate in a fundraiser for a local community centre? Donating money – and time – is a great way to get your brand out there, create a positive buzz about your business and help you to connect with potential clients in your area.
7
Business partnerships
Small business is all about community – get the most out of yours by partnering with other artisans, whether from your online network or your local high street. If you sell artisanal soaps, ask a nearby spa if they would like some samples for thank-you packages. If you make custom home decor, partner with a local realty group to design one-of-a-kind closing sale gifts. The options are truly endless!
8
Business cards
It doesn’t get more classic than a business card! Make sure you always have a few in your pocket… you never know when you’ll run into a potential collaborator. Make sure to include your contact information and social handles on your business cards.
Make your cards stand out with a foil finish or eye-catching shape.
VISTAPRINT TIP
Make your business card work twice as hard – add a promotional offer on one side or use a punch-card design for in-store rewards.
9
Personal touches
It might sound obvious, but don’t overlook the small personal touches – these extra gestures go a long way. Whether it’s a handwritten thank-you card, a voucher for their next order or a birthday discount, make them feel special with a polished personal touch.
Use a branded postcard to add something special to every order.
10
Online directory listings
Make sure your business is listed on every major search engine – this will ensure your business appears in search results and will also improve the reputation and search value of your website.
11
Customer events
Whether it’s a private shopping event, a one-on-one craft studio tour or a virtual flash sale, show appreciation for your customers with a special event… without spending too much money. Even if you can’t celebrate them with a huge in-person party, get creative with on-screen or digital events.
12
Loyalty programmes
Keep customers coming back with a great loyalty programme.
Whether it’s a free goodie after five purchases or a discount code for their birthday, promotions and personalised rewards are a great way to make customers feel special… and encourage them to click on ‘Buy.’
13
Local press
Did you redecorate your brick-and-mortar shop? Are you hosting an open house in your studio? Are you donating a percentage of profits to charity? All of these things are newsworthy when it comes to the local press. If you’re doing something big for your business, contact a local media outlet with a press release – there’s a good chance you’ll be featured and that means word will spread about your business.
