Step 10: Market and Sell

Marketing – a Menu of Methods

There are various types of marketing for you to consider. Below you’ll find an overview of:

1. Grassroots Marketing
2. Public Relations
3. Affiliate Marketing
4. Online Marketing
5. Traditional Advertising

Grassroots Marketing

This is certainly the most affordable type of marketing. It consists of using resources you already have to spread the word about your product or service.

• Distribute your marketing materials (business cards, brochures, flyers) at local businesses, schools, churches and community centers.
• Give great customer service, and then ask customers to spread the word about your company and/or to write testimonials about their positive experience with your company.
• Participate in local/community events.
• Write an article and pitch it to local papers or niche publications.
• Word-of-mouth – tell friends, family and acquaintances and ask them to tell 5 people. Talk about your business every chance you get.
• Give out free samples of your product.

We give one form of grassroots marketing special attention – networking. Networking is a great, low cost way to connect with potential customers and strategic partners and spread the news about your business.

Chambers of commerce are great venues for this—they provide an ecosystem of members who are all looking for business, as well as sources of products and services.

Joining a chamber is extremely important to expanding your network, while at the same time, as a member you may be entitled to great discounts on services you might need, such as office supplies, telecommunications, health insurance, etc.