Corporate events have many purposes. They could be held to launch a new product or service, celebrate an occasion, inform or train staff, or gain funds (as in the case of a fundraiser). However, corporate events can also be used very much to our advantage in terms of marketing ourselves and our business to others. Formal marketing can become a very costly exercise, as it usually involves creative origination, printing, publishing and dispersal. But here are some ideas on how to conduct effective marketing exercises at little or no financial cost to yourself or your organisation:
Get Networking
Attend as many corporate functions as possible and become familiar with the other men and women present. This will enable you to broaden your network and create ties across the board. The more varied the events you are attending, the greater your base of contacts will become. Collect business cards and hands yours out liberally. Maintain contact with those with whom you spoke so that they remember you. Your initial contact may simply involve sending them an electronic brochure or your website address.
Join the Public
Public meetings are sometimes viewed as inconvenient interruptions to your busy schedule. However, they actually provide the perfect opportunity to meet others who may need your services and to make positive contributions. When attending a public meeting, try to say something at each one, so that you become well known and your opinion respected.
Crafty Keepsakes
Create something worth keeping on the back of your business card, so that the client feels that they could definitely benefit from hearing more from you. This could include marketing secrets, what to do in an emergency, etc…The content would, of course, vary depending very much on your industry, products and service. This also makes it less likely that they will discard or lose your business card.
Join Forces
Partner with other individuals and companies for promotions and events. While this is not completely free, it certainly will save a lot of money and you would both benefit from the potential draw cards of the other. It will also help your target market to see your product or service within a different context, adding to your value and that of your partner.
Get Published
Write interesting, informed and informative letters to corporate magazines and newspapers in the hopes that at least some of them will be published. Include your email address and website address so that the readers’ interest is piqued and they can get hold of you.
There is no doubt that the most effective and budget-friendly marketing tool is word-of-mouth. However, to get the word out into the marketplace, you have to get noticed. Try implementing one of the above strategies every week and your name and reputation will quickly be spread through your local business community.
