Marketing on a Budget
[by Rosh Sillars]
If you don’t have money for marketing, the next best thing is investing your time. This is not a bad thing. Most photographers will tell you referrals are one of their best sources of business.
Attend free and low-cost local events. Check the local listings for chamber of commerce, advertising club, and trade organization events. Get out there and shake hands, but don’t go empty-handed.
If cost is an issue, design a 4×6 portfolio photo card, which can be printed inexpensively. Tailor the cards specifically for the event. In other words, focus your work on the type of people attending the event rather than presenting your whole portfolio.
First, hand people your card and give a short elevator pitch, which is who you are, what your specialty is, and how they would benefit from using your service.
Next, listen. Then, ask questions about them. Find out who they know who could use your service. Listen some more. The more you let people talk, the more they will like you. You will be amazed at the opportunities that come your way just by asking questions and really listening to the answers.
Take the time to follow up. Send an “it was nice to meet you” card, or if someone offers you tip, lead or suggestion, send a thank you note. These gestures are some of the most powerful, low-cost marketing tools on the planet.
Rosh Sillars is a professional photographer, the co-author of the book Linked photographer, consultant, university instructor and host of newmediaphotographer.com
One Response to 'Marketing on a Budget'
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Not only cost effective, but in many cases, the most effective!