So, you have a legal business entity that is recognized by the appropriate authorities, and a tax identification to boot.

     Your business has a name, logo, and even a location.

     Now all that is missing is revenue, and that will be generated by clients.

     How do you get these most important elements in the free enterprise universe?

     Marketing!

     According to the American Marketing Association (AMA), marketing is defined as “the activity, set of institutions, and process for creating, communicating, delivering, and exchanging offerings that have value for customers, clients, partners and society at large.”

     In order to market, a business owner needs to:

• Consider the potential customers identified in your business plan.
• Realize your sales efforts should be focused on reaching this group.
• Decide whether your sales efforts will be on social media, attending local business or community events, or searching for businesses like yours.

     “At a minimum, you will need to develop a logo and print business cards, letterhead, and envelopes. This demonstrates professionalism to potential customers. Your logo, the name of your business, address, phone number, email address and website should all be included on these materials. If possible, engage a graphic designer to design your logo and letterhead,” according to the Alliance/Chamber SWLA’s Small Business Resource Guide.

     The Alliance/Chamber SWLA’s SEED Center Business Incubator staff also advises that a business owner create a LinkedIn profile as well as a Facebook page.

     Other steps to consider in preparing to market your business are:

• Secure a web address or domain name and develop a website.
• Include a link to your website on all your online and social media profiles.
• Include that website on your business cards, invoices, price quotes and other printed material.

     Remember, social media platforms and apps are tools to help you scream your name out to the marketplace.

     The SEED Center Business Incubator along with our business development partners in the region are here to answer questions and provide insights for businesses trying to bolster their marketing efforts.

     For more information, contact the SEED Center Business Incubator 337-433-3632.

Eric Cormier serves as Senior Vice President of Entrepreneurship and Strategic Initiatives. He can be contacted at 337-433-3632 or ecormier@allianceswla.org.