So you have an idea for a business – here is a quick guide to get you thinking on some small business marketing tips you need to know, to get that idea out and into the marketplace.
Product & Service
- What is your product/service
- Is it relevant? Exciting?
- What is different about it?
Competition & Market Research
- Who are your competitors and what are they offering? At what price?
- Why are you different?
- Ask people from your “target market” what they like/don’t like about your product/service and also your proposed name
Business Name
- Find a good and relevant business name
- Is it available – check http://www.abr.business.gov.au/
- Find the .com.au (and .com) first before registering a name. Don’t be too concerned if .com is not available, but check what is currently on the .com site as it may offend or cause confusion
Logo & Branding
- What is the purpose of going into business? How do you want to be perceived?
- Seek advice on Trade Marking e.g. www.MarkYourTerritory.com.au
- Logo design should reflect name/brand and colours kept to max of 2-3
Marketing Your New Business via Multiple Channels
- Marketing is a long term strategy
- Be transparent in all your offerings and discussions
- Have a calendar to ensure you keep it up
Finding Your Customers
- Networking Events
- Business Development
- Promotional Activities
- Trade Shows/Events
Being Found by your Customers
- Be Online
- Networking Events
- Search Engine Optimisation
- Search Engine Marketing
- Public Relations
Online Special Focus
Website Design – need to ensure your website is designed with these things in mind
- Your product/service (each one to have their own page if possible)
- Your customer (ease of navigation and 3 clicks rule)
- Optimisation (ensure the website is built with SEO in mind)
Directory Listings
- Make sure you’re listed in all the relevant free directories. Not just to every possible directory – if it isn’t relevant people will see it as spam.
Blogs/Facebook/Twitter etc
- If you have something to share then Social Media is for you. You also need the time for the upkeep so start with the basics first then move to this.
Collateral must haves
- Website
- Email template
- Business cards
- DL flyers/brochures
Collateral when budget allows
- Postcards
- Posters
- Banners
- Car signage
- Shop front and POS signage
- Promotional items
Communicating with your Contacts &Customers
Once you have a contact and/or a client, you can’t just forget about them!
- Build A Mailing List
- Sending out email newsletter as frequent as it is relevant to do so
- Your Customers are your Sales Team – word of mouth is the most affordable way to promote your business
- Repeat business from current clients - Start a loyalty program, say thank you
Tracking
Don’t forget to ask “where did you hear about us” and keep a note of it
Case Studies & Testimonials
Where possible, have examples of your work and testimonials of clients.
Customer Service
This could be a simple “Thanks, we’ll get back to you as soon as possible”.
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