Being an entrepreneur is not always easy and it can be even more challenging if you have just started up a new business from home. The good thing is that home businesses are on the rise because as a business owner you can keep overheads low and your prices competitive. But how do you let your customers know this? There are many low cost marketing ideas that any home business owner could implement.
The internet is on the forefront of low cost marketing. Firstly, as a home business you need a website. Your website will basically be your shop window and tell people all about you and your business. With the popularity of the internet affordable web design is easy to find. You just need to find the best option for you. Secondly, commence social networking. Create profiles for your business in Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other social networks that are popular in your industry. Then ask friends and family to join your business fan page and spread the word about your business to their friends and colleagues.
For effective marketing you need to couple your internet marketing strategy with an offline or traditional marketing strategy. You could run a promotion in a local newspaper. Offer a 10% discount on selected items sold before a certain date. Or you could run a loyalty scheme to encourage regular buyers, such as offer every fifth order at a 30% discount or give a free gift with every fifth order. You can let your imagination go wild here or even request a marketing consultant to assist you. Anything free or discounted will attract the attention of your buyers.
Join an association in your industry. Most industries have an association that is designed to help businesses in that particular industry. They generally offer discounts on certain services such as advertising or arrange networking activities where players in the industry can meet and exchange contacts and marketing ideas. This is a great way for home business owners to meet other industry players and to learn more about their industry.
Home businesses are now becoming an integral part of our economy just as doctors with home surgeries. So dear home business owner, hang in there and make your dream a reality.