Do a Good Deed and Blow Your Own Trumpet -- Quietly

Need a marketing tip which will cost you practically nothing, but will have far-reaching benefits for you and your client??

Instead of spending $$$ on advertising, think about providing a product or service for free to a charitable or non-profit organization or a local community group with little funding.

This offer has a two-fold effect -- your client doesn't have to pay, so they will be thrilled -- and they will likely tell EVERYONE about your kind gesture so you will become better known and be respected. Remember to do this with kindness in your heart, not just as a way to get publicity, however, because it's easy to see through a a gesture that is not genuine.

Ask them if it's okay for you to write and distribute a press release (show it to them if they'd like to see it), then contact your local radio, TV, newspaper and business groups to pitch a story. Include a written testimonial from your client, and get a photo of the two of you if possible (with the product would be terrific).

MAKE A CATCHY HEADING

Make sure the press release has a very catchy headline to grab the media's attention, and you'll probably discover at least a few media will contact you for an interview or publicize your kind gesture by printing (or announcing) your release.

SEND THEM TO YOUR 'NEWS' PAGE ON YOUR WEBSITE

Include a link for your website in your press release. This will lead the media and its readers to your website where your other press releases and news links appear.