Are you looking to go full speed ahead with your marketing efforts but just aren’t sure where to begin? Here are ten marketing initiatives worth considering.
➢ Build a network by getting yourself out there.
- Volunteer
- Join local area boards
- Offer your expertise to county agencies
- Participate in fundraising events
- Check out United Way 211
➢ Leverage your existing network to help you build partnerships with key referral sources. Who can your friends and colleagues introduce you to?
➢ Join mental health social networking sites and be a valuable contributor. (e.g., realmentalhealth.com, webtribes.com)
➢ Create a scalable Website
- Offer a free resource you developed (e.g., e-book, fact sheet, resource list, research project) and share it with the world.
- Demystify mental health by creating an online venue for open and honest dialogue.
- Create a Twitter account and build a following.
- Use email subscriptions & RSS feeds to capture people who might be interested in what you have to say and offer.
- Consider a Blog instead of a website.
- Hire a Search Engine Optimization expert to improve your sites visibility.
➢ Deliver a training or seminar and donate 100% of your earnings to a local area mental health initiative.
➢ Develop brochures & marketing materials that answer a customer need. Make them more than just a decoration or a self-serving tool that no one will read.
➢ Remember that Frequency & Relevance are most important when advertising. The frequency with which you advertise in a specific magazine and the relevance of that vehicle is far more important than how many places you choose to advertise in.
➢ Incorporate a “Call to Action” in all your advertisements and marketing materials. Are you asking potential clients to call for a free consultation or sign up for a free seminar? How do you encourage action and build trust so you earn someone’s business?
➢ Work hard at becoming a true “expert” at one or two things and know those areas better than anyone! Niche markets rule in today’s market place.
➢ Do the work. Remember that passion combined with will and commitment wins out.
