A good business idea is merely the foundation of a potential business. If you really want your idea to grow into a profitable company, you need to package it, market it, and pitch it correctly. It’s almost like you’re introducing a part of yourself to your industry, so you need to make an excellent first impression. If you’re hoping to launch your new business with a bang, here are a few ways you can make sure you make a memorable entrance into your industry.
Have a memorable name
Your company name should summarise an entire identity; what your company is, who you serve, and what your goals are for your customers. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done. You might have the perfect name in mind, but research could reveal that the name is already taken by another company. Before you start buying business cards and a domain name, you need to look up business names by industry to make sure you find a business name that won’t be confused with another company in the same industry. You also need to make sure it’s memorable for your customers, and gives them a good idea of the kind of services your business offers. This might seem like a lot to ask from a name, but it’s good for business if your customers get a clear idea of your business identity.
Build a following
The internet is the first place your customers are likely to encounter your business, not only because it’s convenient for them, but because it’s a cheap marketing option for you. One of the first things you should do to launch your business is start a website. This is the most simple way to let your target audience know who you are, what services you are offering, and how to get in touch with you. Posting blogs on your website on a regular basis (daily, weekly, or fortnightly) will slowly build up a following and allow you to demonstrate your knowledge of your industry. The best use of your blog is to promote yourself as an expert in your field by using content marketing to show people that you know more than your competition. You can also use your website to open up a dialogue between yourself and your readers; respond to their comments on your post, or write an article centred around their frequently asked questions.
Another way to introduce your business to a wider audience is by creating a social media page for your company. You can post links back to your website on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest if your business involves selling products, and use your social media platform to better connect with your target audience. You can also connect with any networking contacts and get them to promote your website on their social media sites.
Make your website mobile friendly
These days, there are very few people in the world who don’t spend at least two hours a day online. Smartphones and mobile devices are incredibly convenient, and most people browse the internet when they’re out and about. Drive up your website traffic by making a mobile friendly version of your site to ensure that your customers stay updated on your products and business news, even on their morning commute, during their lunch break, and on the long bus ride home.
Attend trade shows
The internet is only one place to introduce your business. Attending trade shows allows you to pitch your business idea to potential customers and established professionals; they have been where you are so any advice they have for you is invaluable. If you’re really lucky, some of them might even be willing to invest in your idea.
Study your target audience
Your business won’t thrive if it lacks focus, or to put it another way, if you try to offer your services to everyone. It’s important to establish a niche so that you can tailor your services to your ideal customer, thus increasing your chances of actually making a sale. Conducting market research will give you confirmation that people will buy your product or service, and how much they are willing to pay for it. A cost-effective way to do this is to use free tools like SurveyMonkey to ask an impartial audience relevant questions about your product. Share your survey on social media to get as wide a net as possible. Once you have your feedback, you need to use it to make any necessary adjustments or improvements to your idea.
