Thinking about how to market your start-up effectively? With limited funds, business owners often have to get creative with their marketing strategies. Take steps towards success with these marketing tips for start-ups.
You may feel overwhelmed with questions such as, “how do I decide where to focus my marketing budget?” Or, “who should I market to?” No matter your experience in creating marketing plans, a certain amount of guesswork is always involved in answering these questions.
To help you start on the right track, here are our top marketing tips for start-ups:
1. Consider Your Budget
According to a BDC survey, 30 percent of Canadian small and medium-sized businesses have a yearly marketing budget of less than $5,000. You should budget a figure you can comfortably afford. How you spend this money is more important than the amount you put in your budget. This way, you’ll maximize the impact of your marketing efforts and create a more sustainable and strategic approach to promoting your products.
2. Use Different Platforms
Marketing has never been easier with how many social media channels are at your disposal. But remember to try out a few different platforms at once, whichever aligns best with your audience.
Start by experimenting with different marketing techniques. You could create an elevator pitch, invest in online advertisements, or use email marketing software like MailChimp. Try different strategies to spread the word until you find one that works for your business.
3. Find Your Niche
It may take time to imagine who your business should target. But it’s essential to understand in order to create a greater connection with potential customers. Find your target market and tailor your advertising efforts towards them. The better you know their lifestyles, concerns, and needs, the more effectively you can sell to them.
4. Use Social Media
Social media is one of the most powerful marketing tools right now. Once you’ve found your target market, look at what platforms they use most. TikTok may be the way to go if you’re looking to attract more young people. However, millennials may be more active on platforms like Instagram. Pick which platforms align best with your audience, join discussions, and engage with potential customers.
Take a look at the Best Social Media Platforms for Small Businesses to get a plan of action started and find a social media strategy that works for you.
5. Make Quality Content
Content marketing is one of the most effective ways to get people talking about your products. Consider creating a blog and linking it to your social media channels. From there, note what topics are trending in your industry and local area and use them for content. If you’re creating the content, your only investment is your time.
6. Identify Allies
In every industry, there will be key figures in positions of authority. This might be an influencer with a massive following, for example. Build a relationship with them by sharing their content and interacting with them. Not only will you gain an ally in your industry, but if they share your content, your business will also receive a massive boost.
7. Attend Events
Although we live in an increasingly digital world, networking events still serve an important purpose in business. Take time to introduce yourself to fellow entrepreneurs, ask questions, and make connections. Grow your network of potential customers and allies by speaking to them face-to-face.
8. Use SEO to Grow
Use Google Analytics and Search Console to see what pages on your website perform well. If your site uses a platform like WordPress, the Yoast plug-in will give you tips to improve your SEO score. You’re on the right track as long as your content is well-written, lacks errors, and hits your chosen keywords.
9. Follow Up
Customers have never been more empowered to provide feedback. Take extra care to ensure their experience is positive, as their testimonials are a vital marketing tool. Reach out to customers and ask them how you can improve your products or services. A satisfied and engaged customer has the potential to do your advertising work for you.
10. Market Yourself
As the owner, you are the public face of your business. Don’t use marketing to give your community a hard sell, as people often tune that kind of messaging out. Instead, make a point of looking professional in front of your peers and establishing yourself as a thought leader. Show up at major events in your industry, join in on conversations online, and connect with your community.
How Small Business BC Can Help Your Business
SBBC is a non-profit resource centre for BC-based small businesses. Whatever your idea of success is, we’re here to provide holistic support and resources at every step of the journey. Check out our range of business webinars, on-demand E-Learning Education, our Talk to an Expert Advisories, or browse our business articles.
