When some people hear the word “marketing,” they may automatically think of networking or public speaking. While those are certainly some forms of marketing, those are not the only avenues available. In fact, there are numerous ways to market your business, both online and locally. Finding a marketing activity to fit your personality will make marketing a fun activity for you.
The first step would be to decide if you have more of an outgoing personality or if you are more introverted. Once you have decided that, you can decide if you would like to focus your efforts locally or online. If you feel that you are outgoing and would like to market your business locally, you could try joining a networking group. These groups meet weekly and the goal is to meet other local business people and help each other with referrals and leads.
If that option sounds a bit too intimidating, you could try joining other types of groups, such as a book club or hiking group. This will also allow you to meet new people, and as you get to know the other members, the topic of what you do for a living will come up. Another member may be in need of your services, and if not, they may pass your name onto someone else. Another idea for outgoing people is to give a presentation to a group on a topic that complements your business.
If you are a virtual assistant, you could offer to do a presentation for your local Chamber of Commerce on a topic such as organizing your email inbox. You could mention in your presentation that, as a virtual assistant, you handle email for many of your clients. This will pique the interest of your audience and people that are interested in hearing more about your services will get in touch with you. If you happen to be more introverted, you could offer a similar presentation online via a web conference room or through a telephone conference line. Since no one can physically see you, you may be more comfortable speaking in front of a group this way.
The Internet actually holds many marketing options for shy people. Message boards and forums are a great place to start. You can find them on just about any topic and there will surely be one that fits your target market. Social networking sites also offer marketing opportunities. It doesn’t matter if you are talking to someone at a networking event or posting messages back and forth on a forum, it takes time to build relationships and market your business with other people. Don’t get discouraged if your sales remain steady. Over time, your hard work will pay off and you will notice your sales increasing.
As the CEO of the Small Business and Learning Institute, Kelli Claypool works with business owners to maximize their efficiency through systems and processes in order to increase their bottom line, allow them to work fewer hours, and live their ultimate lifestyle. She is also the Host of the wildly popular DivaTalkRadio show, which features victorious women who are leaders in their respective fields. Kelli surrounds herself with friends and colleagues who have the desire to succeed in all areas of life; financially, spiritually, and physically. “There is nothing standing in your way to prosperity and abundance, but you!” says Kelli. You can connect with Kelli at the Small Business and Learning Institute or at Diva Talk Radio
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