If you want more customers (and who doesn’t!) this summer and beyond, try these easy marketing ideas. Regardless of your budget, there’s an idea in this mix for you.
- Talk to your chamber of commerce to see if they have a local currency program. Local Currency can allow you to have the advantages of gift cards without the headache of administration.
- Host events at your place of business. One artisanal bread company hosts monthly baking classes.
- Host a social media contest to drum up engagement.
- Text customers with discounts and flash deals. (Make sure you have their permission to text and always offer a STOP option if they want to opt out.
- Create an email marketing campaign to bring them in.
- Post a special discount on your social media page.
- Feature your items in video on social media.
- Use the Facebook Marketplace to sell your items.
- Create an online store.
- Post DIY videos.
- Offer self-help videos so potential customers can troubleshoot. If you’re a plumber, for instance, show someone how to unclog their own drain. You’re not turning business away. The more helpful you are, the more they will think you are on their side.
- Post to community groups with helpful or humorous information. When people see you on there enough, they will think of you first when they need your type of product or service.
- Run a loss leader in your business by offering a freebie with purchase or a deeply discounted item to get buyers in the door.
- Create a targeted ad on Facebook (or whatever social media platform your customers are on.
- Take pics of happy customers and share their purchases (get their permission first).
- Work with an influencer by sending them free products or asking them to try out your services.
- Look for inexpensive advertising like sponsoring a youth sports team or PTA.
