Getting the word out about your business can be a challenge if you work for a small firm or as an independent consultant. While marketing isn’t cheap, there are some ways to make your presence known and build your brand on a budget. Here are just a few of the top marketing tips for small firms and independent consultants.
Social Media Marketing
If your company isn’t involved in social media marketing, it might be one of the few that isn’t online. Clients are increasingly using social media today to find new service providers and research companies before making a commitment. Depending on your industry and target market, the top social media platforms to use for your campaigns include Facebook, Twitter, and possibly Instagram.
Build Your Brand
One area where you may want to consider a financial investment is in your brand marketing. This includes your website and its message. It’s not only essential that your company’s website have a clear and powerful message, but that your site also rank well in the search engines. Unfortunately, both take expertise that is well worth the investment. Once you’ve created your message, make sure that you consistently use it throughout your social media and other campaigns.
Become a Thought Leader
An increasingly effective way to market yourself and your company’s services is to become an expert in your field. With a little bit of effort to stay on the forefront of your field’s technology, you can present yourself as a thought leader, mainly through your website’s blog and social media posts.
For example, best practices for architectural marketing include sharing details of projects, and offering insights to the larger industry. Even potential clients who don’t require services right away will think of you when the need arises.
Network and Develop Strategic Partnerships
There are several ways to build your business involving relationships that won’t cost you a dime. If you are a consultant, simply make sure that your clients are thrilled with your work and then ask them for a referral. Small firms can network and form strategic partnerships with other companies that can bring in more business.
Give Back to the Community
Another way that you can create brand awareness locally is to give back to your community. You can do this financially, by providing some free services, or simply by getting involved in some community groups. When you do this, choose a group that serves your target market so that you have the greatest chance of connecting with potential clients.
Become a Mobile Marketer
Whatever online marketing strategy you choose, make sure that it is mobile compatible. As of 2017, 95% of Americans own a mobile device, and 98% of text messages are opened. This presents marketers with a significant opportunity, particularly if you are reaching out to current clients that have provided you with their contact data. SMS marketing is the future, so your business should look into software or services that can help you reach clients through this channel.
A majority of businesses in the United States are classified as small businesses, which means that budgets are tight. Even if your company is cash-strapped, there are many ways that you can market your brand and services with little to no financial investment. In fact, the return that you’ll generate by following these simple tips will make your efforts worthwhile.