Starting a new business is overwhelming. You line up all of your ducks in a row, make sure people want the ducks, but then come to the realization that not enough people know you have ducks available. That’s okay, you still got this! Here are our tips for setting up your advertising strategy when your small business is just starting out.
Order business cards.
Such a simple thing, but so easy to overlook in the excitement of your launch. You need a card you can hand out when people ask, and you need it as soon as you start because people will ask. Do yourself a huge favour and have them designed by a professional from the get-go so that you look like a professional from the get-go.
Tell everyone you know, tactfully.
The last thing you want to do is wear out your welcome before you’ve even opened up for business. Get the word of mouth ball rolling as early as possible. You know they’re going to embarrass you, but that includes telling your 
parents. There is no one on this earth who will spread the word farther about your business than your parents, whether they’re proud of you or worried that you’re going to fail. That’s a gift that keeps on giving!
Develop an elevator pitch especially for your friends and family.
Something short and sweet, and easy to remember when they need your services or when they run into someone who could benefit from your business. “I’m opening a website design and online marketing company that specializes in small business,” is pretty good, but even that is a little too lingo-y for people like your sister who works in a daycare. “A lot of marketing services are geared to big business. I want to help the little guys get noticed.” Keep your business card handy, but don’t hand it out unless asked. Your parents will ask, trust us. And then change the conversation to ask about their kids/dog/trip so that you don’t wear anyone out with your business speak.
Get involved with the community – but make sure it’s a practical fit for your business.
Once you’ve got a name registered, look for organizations and events that you can align with. Maybe it’s a fundraiser that you can donate time or a prize to, maybe it’s a partnership situation, maybe it’s guest blogging or newsletter content. Make meaningful connections, but always keep in mind that the audience you reach in advertising your connection to This, That, and The Other Thing must include potential clients, or you’re wasting your time and money.
Be visible online.
This seems like a no-brainer, but once entrepreneurs find out how much a website is going to cost, or how much social media marketing is going to cost, they get cold feet. It’s irresponsible not to have some sort of online presence, even if it’s just a Facebook page. You can work your way up to a full-blown website and personalized memes over the first year or 2 of business if you’re a freelancer or sole proprietor, but keep in mind that it could take 6 months to get your website online, so at least consider a landing page.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an established entrepreneur, Jelly Triangle can assist you with your marketing strategy including website and logo design. Contact us to book your free consultation by calling 519-324-8888 today.
