“If it is free, it is for me.” I didn’t make this up, but I do know that free remains something we will run after, stand in lines and even push people out of the way to be first (I’ve seen it). I checked out some businesses today and if you order at Land’s End you get free shipping and 30% off. Why would a huge business offer this deal? Because it works. We all love free stuff, so why don’t we offer things for free from our businesses?
If it’s free, it’s for me ideas:
Create a free event and send out press releases. Include a free giveaway at the event.
Purchase a magnetic sign for your car or a car wrap with your website, phone number and e-mail. It’s not free in the beginning, but you will get back the cost in new business, and then it will be free for you.
Watch for free ideas from other businesses to borrow.
Educate people. Sometimes doing a free speaking engagement and giving away free information is a good way to get new business.
Utilize LinkedIn to promote your business and expertise. Make sure it is up to date and packed full of useful information.
Build your word-of-mouth epidemic; share your mission with everyone, invite customers to write testimonials.
Do something fantastic on your anniversary, birthday or other holiday.
Make it a practice to give something away consistently, so your customers can expect it and appreciate it.
Carol S. Ritter, past President of the National Speakers Association in Philadelphia, is an accomplished professional speaker, coach and educational consultant specializing in innovative leadership, outrageous fundraising, million-dollar marketing and building organizational alliances throughout the country. FMI on Carol’s creative leadership with bulletproof ideas for recruiting more members, more money and better leaders: www.caroltalks.com, 610-442-4545, tellkids@aol.com, “Like” Carol on facebook at Caroltalks and CarolCoaches.
