Marketing yourself

As you search for marketing hints and marketing advice you are probably going to run across hundreds of articles that list the benefits of business cards, advocate the constructing of websites and encourage you to go to as many networking events as possible. But what is harder to find is advice on how to market yourself. Remember, you aren't just selling your business and the services it provides, you are trying to sell yourself as well. Especially when you are just starting out—you are the face and attitude of your business!

So how do you make sure that you are marketing yourself correctly? Here are a few hints the experts might not share with you:

1. You are always "on." This is even more important if you and your business are located within the confines of a small town. When you are marketing yourself you must always remember to present yourself in a positive light. This means that you are always showered and dressed nicely in public. Yes—even when it is three in the morning and you need to buy cough syrup. Brush that hair and put on a clean shirt and clean pants. You never know who you might run into. Sure, others might make allowances for you, but you shouldn't have to ask them to.

2. Remember to smile and be friendly. This means not degrading your server even if it is the third time you have had to send your food back to the kitchen to get your order right. Be extra thoughtful and friendly when you are dealing with those who might become part of your business network.

3. Be subtle when you introduce the topic of your business. For example, if you are helping someone reach something at the supply shelf, a simple "here let me help you" goes a lot further than "I'm shopping for business supplies too! What kind of business do you run?" Let the topic come up in conversation naturally. There are times that the random "Hi, I'm a business owner" introduction can be funny, there are more times when doing so is considered obnoxious.

4. Be prepared. If you've met someone in a non-business setting and have started talking about your services, have your business card or some other small marketing giveaway handy. Carry a stock of pens with your business info printed on them. Everyone can use an extra pen!

Really, marketing yourself is about putting your best face forward all the time. Every introduction, every social situation is an opportunity to build your business. While you might not feel like you need constant marketing, the truth is that everything you do helps to build your reputation.
Marketing is something that sounds much more technical and difficult than it is. When you stop and think about it, marketing is really just making sure that people know your business exists and enticing them to use your services. What better way to do that than by being a friendly and helpful (and well put together) member of your community?

For more information on marketing, visit http://www.marketingmicroblog.com and http://www.microblogmarketing.com.