Every start-up business goes through phases of needing to try something different to
increase their exposure and bring in new clients. Even established businesses need to
revisit their marketing strategies every once in a while to help bring in new and repeat
business.

During a recent business chat at Staffcentrix.com, in which I was honoured to be the
Mentor of The Month and chat moderator, several Virtual Assistants (VAs) with varying
experience in the small business sector, shared their ideas and know-how.

The consensus among the chat participants is that certain marketing techniques will
work for some small business owners but may not be as successful for others. It was
also agreed that the cheaper the method, the better.

Myself and all the other VAs found this chat very informative and beneficial. So, with
the hope of passing on the great ideas that were bounced around, to up and coming
VAs or any small business owner, I have put together a list of the marketing strategies
that VAs have found successful, during their start-up phase and beyond.

1. A company website. This is probably one of the best and most cost effective
forms of having your company visible to your potential clients....and its available 24/7!
If you have the time and patience to learn to put something together, give it a try! Or,
consider hiring a professional designer in order to get an exceptional site. The benefits
of having a website are definitely worth the expense. But remember to shop around
and be comfortable with your designer... and the money you pay.

2. Signs in or on your vehicle. Window decals are fairly inexpensive considering
their lifespan. Remember to include your website address. If funds are really short,
make signs on Bristol board and put them inside the windows. You can also get
Licence decals. These can include your website address, company name, and
phone number and fit nicely around your licence plate.

3. Join your local business associations. And don't forget to get involved! Your local
Board of Trade or Chamber of Commerce can provide an abundance of opportunities
for your business. The networking events are a way to meet other business
professionals in your community. And, getting involved in the committees allows you
to share your expertise and be recognized by your fellow members.

4. Pinup Flyers. Include a tear-off section on the bottom and put the flyers up at your
local stores and other locations that may have bulletin boards.

5. Fax Broadcast. Design an informational or fun page, similar to a newsletter, and
send it out to fax numbers for your target market. Please note that fax broadcasting is
not allowed in some areas of some countries, so be sure it is okay in your area.

6. Keep in touch marketing, such as a personalized thank you to a new client or
contact, a Christmas card that simply says thank you, and a monthly newsletter (print
and/or online) to all your customers and contacts.

7. Iron on transfers. As a small business owner you already eat and sleep your
business, so why not wear it too. You can purchase the transfers at your local
business supply store and, I imagine, at craft stores. Then it's just a matter printing
your logo (or whatever you want on the shirt) onto a transfer and ironing it on.

8. Articles & Press Releases. Writing articles is a good way to receive exposure and
it also helps you to be regarded as an expert in your field. Press releases can be used
to announce a new business, when you provide a new service, or any other time you
have some news to tell. There are 2 keys to a press release... the Headline and
making sure it doesn't sound like an advertisement, but more like it is news.

9. Networking. This is another highly beneficial and cost efficient way to get the word
out about your business. Attend designated networking events as often as possible.
Also, when possible, follow the Three Foot Rule... if appropriate, strike up a
conversation with anyone within 3 feet of yourself and be sure to bring up your
business.

10. Testimonials. These can be implemented into many pieces of marketing. Include
a sentence or two in your advertisements, brochures, newsletters, and you can even
dedicate a whole page on your website to the kudos your receive from satisfied
clients.

No matter which marketing efforts you use, keep track of where your inquiries and new
clients are coming from. Don't be afraid to ask them how they heard about you and/or
your business. Asking only takes a couple of seconds and the results will show you
which strategy is working for you the best.

Put your imagination to work... instead of your wallet and watch the business roll in.

About the Author
Janice Byer is the owner of Docu-Type Administrative Services and specializes in
providing services to help clients get ahead in the marketing game. From Website
development, to designing marketing material, to word processing, their mission is to
help small business be successful and stay successful. Visit their website today at
http://www.docutype.net or contact them at jbyer@docutype.net or 905-584-1746