Let’s face it: Getting your small business’ name out there isn’t easy. Running a small business means you probably have a limited advertising and marketing budget. Once that budget runs dry, how are you supposed to keep your target audience aware of your existence?

It all comes down to getting free publicity. Not only is free publicity, well, free, but it also isn’t an outright advertisement, meaning consumers are more likely to place trust in your brand when they see these messages.

Here are 5 tips for getting free publicity for your small business.

1. Write a press release—Thanks to the internet, anyone can write and publish a press release for their business online. Well optimized press releases tend to rank well in the search engines, and if written properly, increase your business’ credibility. But don’t just look for free press release publishing sites. Think bigger. Try to get your press releases picked up by local media outlets, industry publications, and other relevant media sources. Learn more about what makes a good press release.
2. Guest post on other blogs—Guest posting on other blogs accomplishes 2 main things: 1) It gets your name out there in front of a new audience; 2) It helps position you as an expert in your field. If another blogger is willing to let you post on his or her blog, it’s an instant endorsement of your knowledge. Seek out guest posting opportunities on relevant blogs in your niche.
3. Get interviewed—Bloggers, podcasters, local columnists, and online magazine editors are always looking for experts to interview. This provides their readers or listeners with a fresh perspective from someone who has something of value to add to the conversation. Pitch yourself to these outlets to get interviewed.
4. Speak at seminars—Chances are, seminars are held near you that touch on topics you’re well-versed in. Find out who puts these seminars on, and introduce yourself. Let them know your qualifications, and talk to them about you possibly speaking at the seminar or being a member on a panel. If you can’t find any in-person seminars to speak at, try to speak at a teleseminar or simply create your own.
5. Find current news stories related to your business—If your company doesn’t have anything new and exciting deserving of media attention, look for relevant stories in your industry that you can comment on. For example, suppose you run a local fitness equipment store. You could keep your eyes open for new health and fitness related clinical studies that you can forward along to local media outlets adding a well thought out comment from yourself. Make sure to state your qualifications when passing the story and quote along.

How do you get free publicity for your small business? Leave a comment with your best tip!