If you have a small business, and are on a tight budget (who isn't?), you can't hire celebrities or run a sustained advertisement campaign to become well-known.
However, there are other things that you can do to get your business the attention it deserves. And they won't break the bank, either!
Attain Expertise
Become an expert in what you do. You can do this through experience, but you can obtain industry expertise faster by taking advantage of continuing education opportunities and getting the word out about your knowledge.
Once you have attained expertise, then you have to let others know what you have attained – and you can do this by getting articles on that subject printed in newsletters, online or in newspapers and magazines. You could even get an e-book published on the subject, solidifying your position as an industry expert.
Once you come to be known as an expert in your market by your customers, you will slowly start standing apart from your competition. This will also have a positive effect on your bottom line — you'll be able to charge more for your services.
Sell Yourself
In a competitive market, don't just sell products. Market yourself as a brand name. Earn yourself a rock-solid reputation. This can be done by dealing fairly and honestly with vendors, customers and business associates.
Always strive to deliver more than you promise and be consistent in your deliveries.
In the long run, establishing long term and loyal customer relationships and staying focused on your goals will pay off, and your small business will prosper as a result.
