Running a small business can be very rewarding, but it can also be a huge challenge. As your business expands, some of your work can be delegated, but ultimately you are the driving force behind your operations. It’s up to you to make your business work. You’ll work hard to do so, and the long hours may at times seem endless. There will be periods of financial pressure and stress when things go wrong. But when business is healthy, the rewards can make it all incredibly worthwhile.
However, in an increasingly competitive SME market, how can you raise the profile of your business to bring in customers?
Here are 5 Ways You Can Improve the Visibility of Your Small Business
1. Smart Branding
Don’t skimp on branding; get it designed by a reputed professional. Your brand speaks volumes about your business, and will communicate a great deal – including its ethos, USP and price point; it is your key communicator of this information to a potential customer. A good brand should last you a long time – at least until your business’ next significant change. It is worth the investment.
2. Networking
Many people don’t fully understand the value of networking. The truth is, it can be an incredibly cost-effective way of raising the profile of your business. There are hundreds of networking groups out there, and many are completely free! It makes sense to join at least one group; go to a few free introductory sessions to find out which group works best for you and your business.
3. Marketing
For local businesses, reaching out directly to your customers is often the most effective form of marketing. Advertising in local newspapers, magazines and shops can work well. However, even more effective is leaflet distribution directly to your potential customers’ homes. Services offered by businesses such as leafletdrop.co.uk help to make local marketing both successful and cost-effective.
4. Charity
Not only is charitable work inherently good and morale-boosting, being involved in a local charity can be a great way to raise the profile of your business. Inviting your employees to take part in charitable events can help them to connect with the community – a benefit for both sides!
5. Do Things Differently
Ensure your business does things differently. Doing your market research will highlight the areas where your business is ahead of the pack, and also show you where it can improve. Corporate responsibility is a hot topic at the moment; being a responsible business can help to enhance the perception of your brand. For example, finding ways to make your business eco-friendly is a great way to improve your business’ public perception, whilst also saving your business money.
How Visible is Your Business?
Ultimately, you have to be bold when bringing your business to local people. However, remember that word gets around in small communities; treating people with honesty, integrity and kindness is just as important to you as your last sale.
The above tips are great starting points for your business, but as the captain of your business’ ship, its future is in your hands.
Have you tried any other ways of improving the profile of your local business?
