For many business leaders, saying goodbye to 2009 can't happen fast enough. If this was a year that you didn't make the most of your ability to market your product or services, turn that around in 2010.
Over the years, I have seen a number of articles in various publications and blogs about small businesses hiring public relations firms. The debate has been should they or should they not engage a public relations firm. Personally, I do not recommend pr firms for very small businesses. If a business is making under $150k a year, a pr firm is not the right move. Instead you should take advantage of self-help audio programs by award-winning marketing public relations and marketing experts such as Your Best Business Now Vol. 1 - A Small Business Mastery Series. And after you listen to the audio series there are strategies you can execute on your own that can increase awareness of your offerings and improve your bottom-line. Here are some 3 out of 6 tips for 2010:
#1 Refresh Your Brand - Whether you own a storefront retail business or a company offering services do something to refresh your brand. This could be updating your signage outside of your establishment. Remember, a brand refresh doesn't have to be really expensive.
#2 Start an Electronic Newsletter - Most small businesses are not doing enough to connect to existing customers. Start an e-newsletter using a free trial offer with ratepoint.com and include features on products or services. If you run a business that can offer a special promotion - make sure you include one in every e-newsletter. Or use it to send FREE Holiday or New Years e-greetings to your clients and customers.
#3 Create New Referral Sources - Get out there and network in 2010! Cultivate relationships that can lead to referrals. Start by attending events held or sponsored by your local business publication or website. Check your local paper for business event listings.
