Every business owner knows marketing is something we all need, but many get overwhelmed at the thought of how and what to do or budgeting for it. Spark Marketing is here to help rid you of that overwhelm. Here are our top 7 favorite ways to market for FREE. Yup, that’s right, free!

1. Social Media
   We know, duh, it’s free but are you really using it in a way that allows you to show up where your customers are seeing you and making an impact? Make sure you are creating content and posting in ways that show your people more than just what you are selling, but communicates to them your story, your dreams, and who you are so you can build a meaningful connection with them. Share things that will make people want to buy from you and support you. Now days, marketing isn't just about what we are selling, but the stories you are telling. Think: like, know, trust.
2. Build an Email List
   Email marketing is the perfect, free way to connect with your audience and market to people who are truly interested in your business! Be sure you are asking for their information on your website, at events or trade shows you attend, and building your list every chance you get. The great thing about building your list? You own it! No one can take those names and emails away from you or change the dreaded algorithms on you making it more difficult for you to be heard. You can use a free website like MailChimp to send clients updates about sales, life events, important updates, free resources, and more!
3. Create Resources
   If your business allows, create things that people need and share them. One of the best ways to market yourself isn’t by selling: it’s by serving. Think about the things are you asked most frequently or what you see people struggling with most and create content for them. Set some time aside once a week to make a blog post, a YouTube video, tutorial, or download. When you share your knowledge and are able to educate others, you will be seen as the expert!
4. Create Community
   How many times do you think the average American refreshes their newsfeed? The answer is amazing. Now think of all the times you refresh yours and use that time to mindlessly scroll through social media. Instead, use some of that time to comment, like, share, and engage with others. Think about how you’d like others to react to what you are posting and sharing and return the favor! Time spent engaging will pay off in the long run by allowing you to take those relationships offline and bonus – people are more likely to discover you when they are clicking through comments and scrolling as well. Win, wine. (Yup, that’s supposed to say win, win, but it was a typo and we left it in because I think we can all relate!)
5. Ask for Testimonials
   Asking for testimonials can be HARD. But the truth is, when you have a good connection and create a world-class experience for your customers/clients they will be more than happy to provide feedback that allows you to help others like them. Ask them to write a review on Google, Facebook, Yelp or wherever helps you the most. Once you have their testimonials, use them! Include them in your brochures, newsletters, and more.
6. Get Involved
   Show up and do good in your community and within your circle. Join local groups that support businesses like the Chamber of Commerce and get involved! Don't expect people to notice you if you are not involved and invested. Volunteer on committees, show up at events, and don’t be afraid to meet new people. We know it can be scary, but if you are passionate about your business and about helping others both inside and outside the office, that will resonate with everyone you meet. Be sure you aren't the only one doing the talking; listen to others and learn about their business. The more you learn, the easier it will be for you to help them in the future.
   Bonus!
7. Set up a Free Consultation with Spark Marketing
   Okay, here is our shameless plug, but we are SO eager to help business owners like you grow and succeed! If you are interested in learning about how we can help your business, email us at [email protected] to set up a meeting. Let’s grab a coffee or tea and chat about your goals! 

Are you having trouble coming up with content? Here a just a few ideas to get you rolling:

• Write about your passion/business. What’s your story? What have you learned? Break it down into shareable pieces for your audience.
• Upcoming holidays. Think outside of the box, even those silly “national” holidays count (i.e. national coffee day, national selfie day, national friendship day, etc.)
• Seasonal posts related to your industry/business
• Tips/tricks you've learned along the way
• FAQ’s
• Funny pictures, memes, or quotes your followers can relate to
• Current promotions, upcoming events, or special offers

A few more things to think about when creating your content calendar.

• Where is your audience? Where do they like to consume this information? In a blog post? Facebook? Instagram? Do they like to read your information or watch it in a video? Find out what works for you and then stick to it! Your audience will soon become loyal followers and look forward to what you have to say next.
• What does your audience want to hear from you? This will depend on what type of services or products you are providing. Tell them about what you do any why you do it. Answer some common questions or things you know your audience/customers are struggling with.

Quick Recap:
Your content calendar should tell you when, what, and where to publish. If you are going to be starting any type of event, workshop, sale, or service program, your content calendar should be laid out to tell you when to begin any promotion for that as well. Think of you content calendar as your play book. It will give you a solid plan of action and leave you feel well organized and put together.
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If you are planning some type of event or promotion, you will want to stretch your content calendar out over the course of about 8-12 weeks at a time instead of one week or one month. If that feels overwhelming to you, start small and work your way up. Remember, you can always rearrange as needed!
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That’s it! You are ready to rock your first content calendar! Plan to block off about 3 hours to write your first calendar if you are planning for 8-12 weeks. Otherwise if you plan to start with a week or a month at a time you should be able to pound that out much quicker! ​