Creating A Local Business Through Network Marketing
As a business owner you have control over your audience to a certain extent. Much is said about the power of the Internet to market your product to the whole world. While that is true, you can also be very successful by promoting your product locally. That personal touch can help you reach your target audience both for the product and to gain recruits. As a network marketer you have complete control over whether your business succeeds or fails. Keep reading to learn how to create a local business that is respected in your community.
Your local chamber of commerce is a great place to start making local connections. This is an organization specifically for business owners. Not only will they have resources available to help you get started, they often hold functions where you network with other local business owners. This is a great place to shake hands and hand out business cards.
It is also worth your time to join the local branch of one or more of the national marketing associations. Again, they will be a great source of information for you. They will also list you as a member on their site which can help you get exposure and credibility.
Think about the way businesses in your area advertise. Most use some form of direct mail campaigns, while others choose to send out materials only to those who have signed up to receive ads. Many stores also have area where you can post your business card or flyer. While it may take some time and research, availing yourself of these campaigns are great places to start.
Once you have gotten started, consider becoming a sponsor of a local sports team. You can also help out with local charity events. Wear a shirt with your logo on it or see if you can get listed as a supporter on print materials. This will get your name out there as well as gaining respect in the community.
While it may seem old fashioned, don't be afraid to advertise in the local paper. There are still many people who read the paper either in print or online. Invest in a good placement, and you may be surprised with the results. By including a special promo with your ad, you can track the response rate to the ad itself.
While you don't want to pressure friends and family into becoming customers, don't neglect them either. You can use them as a sounding board for new ideas or have them give their thoughts on your latest pitch. By letting them support you in ways that don't cost money, you can keep them from feeling resentment towards you, and you may even get them involved as part of your team. Reward them well, and they can become a valuable part of your team.
Many people prefer to support local businesses rather than buying from an anonymous online store. By making a personal effort to get in touch with your customers, you can make them more comfortable buying from you. While this does not stop you from running online campaigns, it does give you another great way to market your business.
