In today's competitive marketplace, businesses need to think of creative and cost effective ways to promote their products and services. While developing methods of advertising, one should consider the target (existing costumers and new customers) and the delivery (direct media, personal contact, etc.) Here are some great ideas.

1) Invoice Inserts. Include a "specials" brochure or coupon to market products you have not currently penetrated into the market, or services that your customer(s) don't know you offer. This helps broaden your customer relationship, yet only costs pennies to add to an invoice.

2) Business Card Bonus. Include a business card with anything you mail to a customer that has a hand written special offer on the back. Offer a "Lunch for a Lead" or whatever is appropriate for your business.

3) Updated Info.  On your receipt or invoice make certain you have your web site and email address. Additionally, you can include special offers, promos, or discounts to bring in repeat orders. Most cash registers allow you to add text messages, and most invoicing formats are flexible enough to add fields of text.

4) Signatures.  In your e-mail software, be certain to set-up a "signature" including your name, phone number, web address, e-mail address, and either a special offer, or an informational tidbit related to your industry. These cost absolutely nothing, and ensure your customer has your current contact information

5) Auto-Responder Messages. Have your webmaster set up auto-responders on your e-mail accounts to let your customers know that you received their inquiry, and to let them know about a product or service you offer.

6) Ask For Referrals. Ask every client for referrals whenever you: make a sale, follow-up, solve an issue, save the day, get a complaint, or get a compliment. You can also ask for referrals in letters, on invoices, and through e-mail correspondences.

7) Free Stuff.  Offer something FREE for large orders, reorders, first orders, loyalty orders, or get acquainted orders. There are many ways to implement a FREEBIE program, from the "Buy These, Get This FREE," to setting up a frequent buyers club with punch cards or a database. FREE stuff is a great way to get people off the fence and to build loyalty.

8) Stuff Stuff. Every shipment or deliver must include a catalog, advertisement, flyer, or promo. If you are in a service industry, provide a coupon, a loyalty discount on the next service, or referral request immediately after you have completed the service.

9) Thank You. Thank your customer every chance you get, and offer them another product or service. If you can, thank them in person, if not, a Thank You Card is a powerful tool. Use a custom imprinted card with your contact info and a hand written note that expresses how much you truly appreciate their business.

10) Plan An Event. Have an Anniversary, Springtime, or Holiday Event to showcase your product or service. Ask clients if they can come, and ask if they know anyone in their field that would benefit from your product or service. This way, you can expand your customer base while giving your client a little treat.