Marketing Doesn’t Have to Slow You Down

(This week I take a break from writing and welcome back Guest Blogger, Lance Cody-Valdez.)

Senior entrepreneurs are everywhere. There are many instances of men and women starting their own successful businesses well after their 50th birthdays. For many of us, this means capitalizing on talents we already have. But, there’s also a learning curve, particularly when it comes to marketing. But, the following tips can help you get your business out into the public without slowing you down.

Design your website.

There is no getting around that the digital age is here to stay. This means that you absolutely have to have an online web presence to be competitive. Your website should be user-friendly, functional, and attractive. Before you get started, however, you’ll want to establish your business name so that you can remain consistent with your online presence. You could even use free online tools such as a free online banner maker to add brand-specific graphics to your website. You can also take these images and use them on social media. The best part, of course, is that they’re incredibly easy to use and won’t cost you anything.

Use social media.

Whether you are already using Facebook to keep up with your grandchildren or enjoy sharing pictures on Instagram, you’ve likely seen the powerful reach of social media. But, more than just useful in your personal life, social media is an excellent tool to market your business. If you don’t have time to learn the ins and outs, consider hiring a social media manager. You may wind up paying more or less depending on their experience level and whether or not they have a portfolio of effective social media projects. If you need proof that social media works, check out these projects presented by the Digital Marketing Institute.

Offer samples.

There is a reason that people flock to Sam’s Club every weekend, and it’s not just the 50-packs of toilet paper. This wholesale club is famous for allowing vendors to give out free samples of products sold in the store. This makes sense, as it’s a great way for consumers to gain exposure to your brand, which they must do at least five times before you automatically come to mind when a need or want arises. By giving free samples or demonstrations, you can showcase the best of what you have to offer in a no-pressure environment and prove to your customers that their money will get them exactly what you’ve promised.

Put your logo everywhere.

You already have a website and social media, but these are not the only places you can gain exposure to your brand. One of the most effective marketing strategies is to put your brand/face everywhere. A few examples here are to give out free T-shirts or other promotional materials and make sure that your company information is on all of your documentation, such as your invoices. For T-shirts, decide whether you’re going to give away large quantities at events or just a few here and there. Ideally, you can order at least 25 for the best price and quality, which is screen printing. 

To create a memorable and appealing logo, you can use an online logo maker. Customize AI-generated logos by adding your own icon, images, and design. You can even add animation if you’re including your logo in video content.

Start a blog.

There’s a high probability that you know more about your business than anyone else. Share your knowledge with your customers, and you’ll not only give them valuable insight, but you will also improve your online presence while supporting your social media content. ThriveHive further points out that a blog is a great way to grow your email list and generate leads.

Contribute to charities.

When you own a business, you are in a powerful position to help out within your community. But, your altruistic efforts can also provide you a return in the form of company reputation, employee engagement, and tax deductions. Something as simple as hosting a community cleanup day is a great way to get on the ground level with your customers. Plus, this is an excellent opportunity to pass out T-shirts, hats, and tote bags, which volunteers will both appreciate and reuse again and again.

Marketing is not this mystic art reserved only for a lucky few. By contrast, even people with no experience in advertising can quickly and easily get their business out into the public’s eye. Those tips listed above, from slapping your logo everywhere to hiring a social media manager, are just a few of the virtually countless ways that savvy seniors can jump into the world of small business marketing starting today.

Need a virtual assistant to handle tasks for your business? Karen Repoli can help with writing, administrative tasks, marketing, social media, and much more!

 

About the Author: A few years ago, burned out and miserable from his job in corporate marketing, Lance Cody-Valdez decided it was time to invest in himself. He quit his job the following day and used his meager savings to stay afloat as he built a career as a freelance writer and content marketer. He created  Free Lance Now to help others use freelancing to escape the 9 to 5 daily grind.