“Pull yourself up by your bootstraps.” While the expression may originally have referred to a task that’s impossible, bootstrap marketing is more than possible—it’s essential. Bootstrap marketing is when companies make the most of their passion and creativity by doing the work themselves on a small budget.
Nearly two-thirds of small businesses spend less than $1,000 a year on marketing. But a small budget can still yield huge results. Here are ways you can boost your brand exposure using promotional products under $1.
Use budget promotional items to connect
Increase your social media following and engagement through trivia, scavenger hunts and other contests using prizes. For example, a convenience store might kick off a holiday weekend with a celebratory post that includes an offer, like giving a can holder to anyone who shares the post. Or a sporting goods store might encourage people to keep spending time outdoors even as fall approaches by giving away sport flyers for social shares.
Business swag can also be used to bring attention to an online newsletter. A coffee roaster might try to supercharge its subscriber base at a fall festival or farmers market by offering a coffee sample and a cork coaster for every new signup. A pillbox might be a hit for a nonprofit that provides services to seniors.
Turn partnerships into swag opportunities
Use community ties to draw attention to your brand by partnering up with like-minded organizations. For example, a school or sports league might want to boost attendance at home games. Put your name alongside theirs on budget promotional items to give to attendees. Get creative! If the team is hosting the rival Hornets or Yellow Jackets, give out flyswatters. If a beloved coach is celebrating a birthday, hand out party hats and lead the crowd in a song.
A chiropractor’s office can team up with a golf course and exchange giveaways. The chiropractor gives out course discount coupons to patients, while the golf course adds to its tournament and league prize bundles a pack of golf tees with the chiropractor’s logo. Or instead of discounts, the chiropractor could hold a weekly drawing and give away course-branded golf pencils.
Trade a promo item for a promise
Positive online reviews and social media attention can have a huge impact. Promotional products can go a long way toward encouraging engagement. Budget-friendly promos, like reusable cups and fun keychains, are great giveaways for anyone who posts a review.
If a customer mentions that they follow your company, give them a jar opener. Or start an online campaign to bring people to your door. For example, a public library can share a post promising a free bookmark to anyone who checks out a book and mentions the post.
Always be on—and ready with a handout
As the leader of an organization or business, you can be its biggest supporter in the community. Make the most of opportunities to share your story, whether they come at the grocery store, gas station or anywhere else. Keep branded pens or business card magnets on hand to give anyone who is interested.
If you’re a member of a community board or service organization, help meetings or events run smoothly by offering branded pencils or scratch pads. Encourage folks to take them home afterward and before long, your logo will be in heavy circulation.
Budget-friendly strategies can stretch what’s possible
When pennies need to be pinched, there are plenty of budget promos and promotional products under $1 to help you reach your goals. The secret is the creative idea behind the distribution of these items. Strategies that include social media giveaways, organizational partnerships, rewards for reviews and follows, and always keeping budget promotional items on hand in public will have you on your way to becoming an expert bootstrap marketer.