Marketing and Public Relations

Submitted by: MWL Communications

Getting the word out there about you and your business can be daunting; these tips may help you take that first step.

1. Learn social media. It's a free way to promote your business, but you need to take time to learn how to use it and leverage it wisely. Just because you are out there does not mean people will seek you out.

2. When times are tough, do not eliminate the marketing budget. You still have to do something to earn new customers and keep the ones you have.

3. Consider the power of public relations. But remember that what's interesting to you may not always be interesting to others. Think about your company from the customer's perspective so that you are able to share a story that is relevant to them.

4. Public relations is not free. While you are not paying for the story, it does take a great deal of time to find your story and share it with the media.

5. Everyone from the CEO down needs to be on board with your marketing efforts.

6. No single marketing effort works all the time for every business, so rotate several marketing tactics and vary your approach.

7. Consider adding a referral program. You'd be amazed at how a small discount on future purchases will encourage current customers to send their friends and family your way.

8. Network, network, network. Go to Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce Events or other activities that attract your ideal customer. Collect business cards and follow-up with everyone.

9. Create a useful handout. Offer customers something with important information they will want to keep for reference. For example, auto repair shops could provide magnetic calendars with reminders about oil changes and other maintenance needs.

10. If you do not have a written marketing plan in place, create one or hire someone who can. A written plan will give you timelines to follow, benchmarks to plan against and a solid way to make sure your new business activities stay on track.