Corbett Associates, Inc., a Long Island-based public relations firm, offers these updated tips to businesses that need to promote their product or services. Members of our firm have more than 30 years experience in PR and these are some of the recommendations that we give to our clients and techniques we practice ourselves.
Let your community know who you are and what you do
Many people walk past stores and offices and never think about going in or why they should. Send out a periodic press release about your firm, new employees, new clients or products. These release can be sent to Daily and Weekly Newspapers and business periodicals and newsletters.
Participate in your community
Join a local club or service organization. This will give you an opportunity to network and join in on community service projects. This can help to help get both your name and your businesses name in the local papers.
Direct mail and/or Newsletter
If you do not have a local newspaper or you have a limited client base direct mail may be a tool for you. Software and printing of newsletters is very inexpensive. Write a few stories about what is going on in your business, industry or community. Mail it to friends, relatives, clients, prospects and anyone who may be interested in your products or services.
Offer to speak at a community event for at a club meeting
Clubs like Rotary, Lions, Elks and even political organizations are always looking for speakers. Put together a program that is 10 to 15 minutes in length and tell everyone about your business and yourself. Bring copies of your company brochure and newsletters. Take a photo and put it in your local newspaper.
Have a special promotion
Sporting promotions are very popular. You can hire companies that will set up a batting cage, tennis cage or other sports participation event at your location. You can coordinate with a charity to get additional press and raise funds. Invite the mayor or other important people down to participate.
Consider participating in a trade fair or community fair
The cost of renting a table can be inexpensive and could lead to sales or leads. If it is for a charity it could also be tax deductible.
Develop a special award to be given to a celebrity or person from your community
If you are a computer company you can give away a scholarship to a local student that excels in computers in school. If you have celebrities visit your community you can give them a key or other token that represents your geographic area. Remember put the photo and story in the local newspaper.
Always take photos with people that are important
These photos can be captioned and placed in the local news paper. If people see you with an important person they will think you are important also.
– (Because of the importance of this tip it appears for the second time) It is important to be an active member of your Chamber of Commerce, local business association and/or professional society (if applicable) This allows you to meet and network with other business people and demonstrate your support for the community.
By Corbett Associates, Inc. If you have any questions, or would like more information on how to promote your small business, please contact Bill Corbett at (516) 775-0435. Email: WJCorbett@Worldnet.att.net.