Use online directories
One way to market your business is to register with Google My Business. This is a free tool that allows you to create a listing for your business so it can easily be found on Google searches and visible on Google Maps. Businesses can do it by completing an online registration form and a simple verification process.
Yelp is one of the most popular online business directories. You can create a free Yelp account to help promote your business and engage with customers. Customers can also leave ratings, reviews, and pictures of their experiences with your business which will help boost your sales. Yahoo and Bing also have free online directories.
Market on social media
You can use social media as a marketing tool to gain exposure for your business. Social media is a great way to interact with potential customers . You can post updates, provide a behind-the-scenes look at how your business operates, and even notify your followers of upcoming sales.
You can create social media profiles like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter without spending any money. YouTube provides a free way to distribute creative promotional videos, but to succeed, you must put up content that people want to view and are relevant to your business and a simple ad will not work. You can also network on LinkedIn; both at the personal and the professional level.
Start a blog
A blog not only helps your company get its name out through followers, it is also a way to connect with your consumers more directly. One of the major keys of blogging is to keep your blog updated as frequently as you can.
A dormant blog is worth nothing. Make sure that each post you create provides visitors with helpful information. Write blog posts that tell your brand story and answer questions potential customers may have. You can also share your blog on your social media profiles to gain traffic to your website.
Add SEO to your Website
It’s important to optimize your business website for search engines so customers can easily find you. SEO cannot be underestimated in the world of constant Googling. Search engine optimization gives you the upper hand when marketing your business. It helps you increase website traffic and gives you authority in your line of work. You can pick up a book or find resources online to learn how to market your business with SEO to make sure your site is primed for performance on search engines.
Use a press releases
Whenever your business does something newsworthy, consider issuing a press release. They’re a powerful media tool to use to help generate publicity. There are dozens of websites out there that you can use for your press releases, such as PRLog and 24/7 Press Release.
Make your website shareable
Whether you’re writing blog posts, creating engaging videos, or simply introducing a new product, everything on your website should be shareable. Having quick links to share website information via social media, email, or text message means your users can connect their network to your business at no cost to you!
There are several ways to market your small business for free online. To recap, social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook are often the places your target audience is already spending time, so why not engage them there? Take advantage of free online business directories so you appear in active searches for the services you provide. Along the same lines, ask yourself: How can I show up even more to prospective customers’ searches? Share helpful resources through a blog on your website and use press releases to share key news about your business. Those content efforts, coupled with a solid SEO strategy, can help increase traffic to your website.