Mailbox with letter.UmbertoPantalone/Getty Images/iStockphoto
With social media, the opportunities for small businesses to get in front of potential customers have increased exponentially. But traditional marketing options still offer tried-and-true methods, so the best bet is to mix digital advertising with traditional ones. Experts offer the Top 5 options for small businesses:
Social Media
Twitter, Facebook and YouTube have made it easy to market to the masses on a small budget. However, it does take time to build an online following.
Direct Mail
This more traditional form of advertising can get you right in front of the customer. But many people throw out flyers or cards, so make sure it's eye-catching.
Google AdWords
Pay to get your website on top of search results. It can be cheap, depending on the keywords you buy, and it's easy to track how AdWords helped drive traffic to your site.
Guerilla marketing
Do something unconventional to build buzz, such as plastering company-related stickers around the city. It can be hard to come up with something creative, but the payoff may be worth it.
Do good work
The ultimate marketing tool is your product. If it's that good, the word will get out.