Your Assignment
Write down each of these 8 methods and jot down a few different ways you might use each idea. If you don't think a method will work for your business, write down why. Be specific about why you don't think it will work or why you can't do it. Do the research, make the lists, and read the articles referenced for each method.
- People You Know
Do this: Make a list right now of at least 20 friends and relatives you will give business cards to and sit down with to discuss your business and what you do. - Networking
Do this: Use your local phone book, the Web, the newspaper, and other sources to locate contact information for your Chamber of Commerce and other local networking groups. List all the groups along with cost, membership benefits, and find out when the next meeting is that you could attend as a guest to learn more about the group. - New Businesses
Do this: Find out if your town has a newspaper or other source that publishes new business information. Get a copy of the most recent list. Even if you're not ready to send it, compose a letter to one of these companies that introduces yourself and your business. - Makeovers
Do this: Next time you are out doing business around town look for fliers, ads, or business cards you can bring home that might make good makeover candidates. Pick one to do. Even if you go no further with it, turn it into a piece for your portfolio. - Web site
Do this: Read this article from About Entrepreneurs: "E" is for "Everything". If you already have a business Web site but it isn't bringing in business, read this article from About Small Business: Canada, "Why Isn't My Business Web Site Working?" - Free Publicity
Do this: Read these articles on using and writing press releases: "Publicity/PR Success and How You Can Do It Too" and "Tips for writing an effective press release for your desktop publishing business". Now sit down and write a press release - even if it's not good enough to send out right now, stop and write it down. - Leave behinds, Bulletin Boards
Do this: Next time you are out doing business around town look for public bulletin boards or other places that accept leave-behind materials such as stacks of fliers or cards. Make a list of these places and the type of materials they accept. - Yellow Pages
Do this: Pull out the yellow pages or pick up various advertising papers in your area. See what categories fit your business. See if your competitors are advertising in these places. Pick up the phone and call to get pricing information for a few different ads.
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