Creating a Marketing plan is one of the best investments of time you can invest in your growing Business. But for many flourishing businesses, cash flow issues brought on by “growing pains” can often dampen the best laid plans for big and bold marketing ideas.

So if your marketing budget isn’t as big as you’d like right now, and you don’t have a very big social media following yet  … never fear. Though often forgotten about, the following smart marketing choices are some easy, low-cost or even free ways to spread your message and get you and your business in front of your ideal client. Some may seem old-school and out-of-date, but they are still very viable marketing techniques.

Use Your Voice Mail: Whether you use your mobile device or an actual phone system in your office, voicemail is a big part of your business life. Instead of leaving the customary, “thank you for calling – I’m not available at the moment, blah, blah, blah…” message, share a succinct (but to-the-point) message about your business. Think of it as a very short commercial and a way to get an effective message to an already captive audience.

Get Out from Behind Your Desk: Attending events, joining local networking groups, attending local networking events, and even volunteering are effective and low-cost ways to be seen and heard in your community. Even online business professionals can benefit from offline connections from time to time, as these connections can generate additional leads or referrals in the future.

Make Your Email Signature COUNT: Just think about how many emails a small business owner sends and receives in a single day. Now multiply that by 7 days in a week and then 30 days in a month and so on. Your Email Signature is your online calling card; and it offers a great chance to add extras like a clickable link leading to your freebie, an announcement of the launch of your new product or service, a link to your most recent blog post, an opportunity to invite to readers to connect with you on social media, or even the chance to share news of an upcoming event. Free tools like Wisestamp and QuipSig 2.1 allow users to easily customize their email signature, with the ability to easily make changes to reflect different messages at different times.

Your email signature is your online calling card. Make it count!

Consider Business Bling: For those of you who market locally, your vehicle is a moving billboard with the potential to be seen by hundreds, even thousands, of eyes every time you hit the road. This “driver-tizing” can be a customized window decal with your logo and business information, magnetic signs, or who knows … depending on what you do and where you are, you might even consider a full body wrap for your car.

Another innovative marketing tactic is to “wear your business bling” by having custom shirts and jackets created that showcase your logo and brand colors. Zazzle is a great place to design your custom t-shirts and coffee cups and whatever else you want. Easy to create and reasonably priced!

Pick up the Phone: In today’s fast-paced, online world, many of us are more likely to email, text or message someone on Facebook when we need to connect or reach out. Picking up the phone and calling your new client or an existing client is a great way to show your commitment to them, and let them know you also understand the value of human connection. A good habit to start would be to spend time every month following up with clients via phone and maybe even touching base with active prospects.

Contact us for a complimentary 30 minute consultation to find out how we can help you with your marketing strategies and implementation.