The recession, followed by the BP oil spill, severely affected businesses in the Southwest Florida and Fort Myers area. Small business owners, by nature, are a hardy breed. They know how to cut back and streamline processes to help their business run more efficiently. Of course, saving money is only part of the equation. In order to thrive in the long run, businesses also need to attract a constant stream of new customers. In today’s economic climate, one of the best ways to do this is by using promotional marketing.
What is promotional marketing?
Television and radio advertising is an effective, yet expensive, marketing tool. Radio and television ads run only a few times, and the cost can be very high. Many small businesses find their budget simply cannot support that type of advertising in a prolonged manner. There is, however, another way to get your company’s name, logo and address in front of potential new customers for very little money. Promotional marketing, promoting your company using branded items, is an excellent use of marketing dollars. At one time, branded items meant t-shirts and pens, but there are now many possibilities to suit every type of business.
Turn your customers into your sales force
Although you could hire someone to stand in public and give your business card to anyone who would take it, the cost would likely far outweigh any return. However, providing high quality, attractive branded items can bring in referrals over and over. Customers who are enthusiastic about your company may be interested in owning and showing off a branded item.
If you own a retail store, consider holding a raffle or other drawing to give away branded items. Retail stores often find t-shirt and coffee cups to be a good choice. Your customers will be thrilled to get something for nothing, and they will be a walking advertisement for your business whenever they use their cup or wear their shirt. You can also sell the branded shirts and other items in your store for customers who are especially enthusiastic about your business.
If you are looking for a way to break the ice with a potential new customer, delivering a basket of snacks and other small items, all branded with your logo, may be just the thing to make you stand out among a sea of competitors. Do not forget to tailor the gift basket to your prospect’s interests. If they are concerned about the environment, then fill the basket with environmentally friendly items.
Promotional marketing is one of many tools you can use to make your business stand out. A well-designed branded product will make a lasting impression every time.
