Inspired by Growth on a Budget: Can it be done?

Growing can sometimes be painful and expensive. I have personally scoured hundreds of websites claiming low-cost marketing tips. I've done the research and I've got the experience, so what did I find? Great news. Let me give you 10 of my favorite tried and true marketing for small business tips that can work for any industry, any time.

1. Focus your marketing. If you do not know your target audience, spend some time trying to figure that out. It will save you 1000's of dollars in the long run giving you a bigger budget to work with.
   
2. Direct Mail. It's affordable, still works great and can be used as a test marketing strategy for bigger, costlier ads in the future.
3. Visit Trade Shows. That's right, you don't actually have to participate to make a trade show worth your while. Just make sure you have clear objectives and work with what you've got. With some professional business cards in place, you'll be sure to capture some new leads.
4. Image is Everything. Have professional materials printed to give out. This alone is branding 101 and something that's hard to reverse if the first impression is a bad one. Read "Image is Everything" below. If you have to, print one at a time to save on bulk costs until more sales come through the door.
   
5. Plan.Plan.Plan. Even if you just right down some simple goals each month. Number of calls, number of follow-ups, number of sales, number of profits. Something that will motivate you to reach for bigger goals.
6. Stay in Contact. Be sure to have a contact system in place to respond to potential clients and clients consistently. This drip marketing method is a great way to develop long-lasting relationships. There are plenty of free and trial CRM software programs available.
7. Strategy. Develop a long-term strategy. Connect your product or service to something larger than you. By doing this you will give meaning to your product or service and consumers trust those who have their best interest at heart. Volunteering is free and can bring in new leads.
   
8. Co-brand. Look for alliances, partners or those products and services that compliment yours. Teaming up can be a great way to cut costs and reach different segments when marketing.
9. Find Your Niche. I don't care if it takes you every day for a year. Constantly ask how you are different than your competitor. Implement loyalty programs, free trials, anything that will gain consumer trust so they can see you are different and all you really pay out of pocket is the cost of the product.
   
10. Customer Service. You're bringing in the client finally, so be sure to have a strong follow-through. Listening to their needs, sending thank-yous, over delivering, and a strong handshake can make all the difference in the world. Customer retention is definitely the least costly marketing you can do. You've already spent the money to get them in the door. Now...WOW them!

Tell us how you save money and time when marketing your new business.