5 Effective Ways to Market in Your Own Backyard for FREE

Let’s face it, a marketing budget is a luxury these days for start ups and small businesses looking to promote. There may be little to no funding available to purchase marketing materials and promotional products to help promote your business. This is what makes no-frills backyard marketing more important than ever in this tight economy. Consider getting the attention of friends, neighbors and local businesses outside of the social media arena. Here are five sure fire ways to get you started.

Take advantage of any and all local networking events. Be it Chamber of Commerce gatherings, mixers, or local fundraisers, these are good arenas to build working relationships with fellow businesses. Also, this is a great platform to gain word of mouth recognition which is the best form of advertising; and it’s free.

Volunteer at local schools and charity events. Volunteering is rewarding in more ways than you can ever image. First, when you are giving of your time to help someone else, nothing but good can from this. Not only will this selfless act of generosity get your business a plug in, but it can also do something for you personally. Having a heart to give is truly rewarding and you will see a lifetime of returns both professionally and personally.

Sponsor a neighborhood school event. There is always something going on at schools. As parents, we get the Monday folders with flyers, fundraising notices, book sale catalogs, etc. This is an easy way to keep track of what’s going on at school and your opportunity to tap into the mix. Sponsor the Muffins with Moms, or the garden clean up event. A small donation of time, money or goods can go a long way. If you have no children and can’t easily access events, visit the school websites in your neighborhood for upcoming events or contact the PTA president to get on the mailing list.

Cross-promote services with other local business. Find a local business that is not direct competition but would compliment your product or service and jump on the band wagon with their promotion. If you don’t have the capitol to financially promote with them, barter your services to get in with their promotion. Local business are usually supportive of other locals and free services are always attractive. Finding potentials at networking events can play a successful role in your aim to promote with them.

Don’t be shy..just talk! Get out and meet someone. Talk to your neighbors, friends and even strangers to let them know what services and/or products you offer. Studies show that to a stranger, we are six people from having a connection to the same people. If you consider this in a promotional aspect, you’re sure to find that they will know someone who can put you to good use.

Just these quick tips could create a long list of clients, customers, affiliates, etc. So, get out there and mingle!