Is that what you think about marketing? Would you rather get some new clients and get some money coming in, before you invest in any proper marketing?

That’s what a lot of new businesses do – wait to get some clients before they feel they can do any real marketing. But if you don’t actually promote your business, how are you going to find those clients in the first place? You could rely on people you know, but that will only get you so far.

There are many marketing activities that you can use to get your business started – and to keep it going – that don’t cost the earth. Here are few of my favorites:

Networking – some networking events don’t charge entry. You might just have to buy yourself a cup of coffee, or put up with a sponsoring organization making a presentation. The other thing to be aware of at free networking events is that they are often frequented by business people who do not want to spend much money – on their marketing or anything else, which you might like to sell to them.

Social Media – Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook are just some of the free online tools that you can use to promote your business. There are additional paid-for upgrades, but for the most part, you can use them for free to build your online network and reputation.

WordPress Websites – there are a growing number of website platforms, including WordPress, which you can use for free. You might need a few design skills to make it stand apart from the hundreds of other sites that people have set up for free, but you do not need a degree in computer science to create an online presence. You can also use systems like WordPress for publishing a regular blog (like this one!) and sharing your thoughts and ideas with the world.

Public Speaking – if you are comfortable standing up in front of an audience, then giving presentations at networking events is a great free marketing tool. If you have never done public speaking before, get some training before you have a go, because doing a bad job can be bad for your reputation.

Email Newsletters – these are a great way of keeping in touch with people you meet. They also allow you to explain what you do over time, educating your audience. This can take time for coaches, consultants and trainers, especially if you do a lot of different things. There are many online email newsletter systems you can use to publish a newsletter, for no cost. If your list is small, you can send out monthly newsletters without being charged. You only start paying when your list reaches a certain size.

Email Signatures – when you email anyone, be they client, supplier or prospect, you can send them marketing messages in your email signatures. As well as containing your contact details, which are essential, you can add details of new products and services, of forthcoming events, or special offers you are promoting. You can change your signature on a regular basis or have a range that you use, depending on who you are contacting.

Don’t rely on free marketing for ever, because it will only get you so far. Sooner or later you’ll need to invest in your marketing and show that you’re running a serious business. How exactly do you do this? In next week’s blog we’ll look in more detail at one of the tools listed above that will give you a really simple, practical approach to finding new clients and promoting your business, without spending much money at all. If you don’t want to wait until next week, get in touch by calling me on 01635 578 500 or by clicking here to email me and I can give you some advice.