Marketing Tips for Tight Budgets

Bad websites are like bad movies; if they don’t get any attention, they disappear.

In the internet world, attention is the currency. The more attention you create, the more attention you get. With a highly saturated internet it’s more difficult than ever to attract attention to YOUR website.  You’re selling fruit in an orchard; how do you get a visitor to buy YOUR “apples”? Not only are you up against large companies with huge marketing assets, but you’re also competing with other distractions as well.

But you don’t have to spend a ton of money to connect, just be creative. Here are some tips to help you market your business on the web.

1.      Create a LinkedIn group. A LinkedIn group is a free resource that can steer potential customers to your site and provide information, new contacts and gives a personal touch to your marketing, while also steering traffic and more sales. Avoid the ‘hard sale” however.

2.      Get published.   While it may be difficult to get on the front cover of a major magazine, you can create marketing opportunities by being featured in local papers, TV or radio programs. Make a name by supporting charities and local events, and get featured in a local “niche blog” in exchange for some freebies.

3.      Get on YouTube. YouTube can be a powerful platform for an online business. Just post videos of you and your product. Include:

·         A keyword-researched headline that attracts attention,

·         A short, clear editorial message

·         Offer discounts or prizes when they visit and say “I saw your video!”

You can avoid expensive cameras, lighting equipment and editing by using the cameras built into a Smartphone or the MAC iMovie, etc. You can hire a professional editor for a small fee.