Many entrepreneurs go 100% online when they first start their businesses because they have numerous opportunities to promote and market. But what do you do when you’ve marketed everywhere you can online? You take it offline! Below are a few examples of how to take your online business offline, build a strong customer base, increasing sales or maybe get the juices flowing for new, effective marketing ideas.
- Sponsor your local sport teams.
You can spend very little money to buy team uniforms for a local basketball, baseball, soccer or other sports teams than placing an ad in a local paper. This is a good way to give back to the community as well as promoting your business. It is also a good PR technique, as your local press may be very interested that you are taking such an action and may probably come around to visit and perhaps photograph you with the team and their new uniforms! - Attend local chamber of commerce mixers.
This is a good way of meeting other business people within your location. The local chamber of commerce in your area should have a mixer or a seminar every month to bring their members together as well as welcome new members who want to join that local chamber. The connection that you make can help you to generate new clients and also get new referrals. - Join a Rotary Club.
This is one of the most ignored marketing strategies but it can help you in building important relationships locally and thus grow your business. By joining and participating in your local rotary clubs, you will meet with other people who are dedicated to serving the community in different capacities. You will not only make new friends but also learn new techniques from other businesses people. - Join MeetUp. Okay.
Yes Meetup is an online network – but it takes you offline to connect! Join groups that match your niche and personal interests. You never know if someone in your book group, Zumba class or doggie play-date group could use your services! - Have some Face-Time.
Take a half-day each week to stop in to your local businesses. Introduce yourself, leave a brochure or business card. When you other business owners face-time, it offers them a sense of trust. They say first impressions mean everything – so put your best foot forward and get out there and market! - Offer a FREE gift.
If you are a product-based business, offer them a complimentary gift – such as sample of your product. Many independent consultants (Mary Kay, Wraps, etc.) offer free samples for individuals. This is an easy and cost effective way to provide someone with something to remember you by.
On a final note, it is important that even established businesses consider revisiting their marketing strategies every once in a while