Business Stationery. It is very cheap with technology today to have great business stationery. Business cards, letterhead and with compliments slips. Use both sides of the business card and make sure that the card conveys your USP and states what you do. This would be one of the biggest and cheapest missed opportunities. E-Newsletters. Printed newsletters involve printing costs and postage. Online e-newsletters can be prepared at little or no cost other than your time. Build a database to communicate with your contacts at least monthly and share your expertise to help people.

Articles. Consider writing articles on topics of interest to your target market. Send them out yourself and consider submitting them to websites, industry related groups and trade media.

Speaking. Surveys have found that people often rate public speaking above their own death in terms of fear. If you can muster the courage, speaking in front of your target market is probably the most powerful marketing tool that positions you as an expert in your field.

Write. Consider writing a tips sheet, a free e-book or "How To" book on topics of interest to your target market. You don't have to be a published author and you even if you can't write well, you probably know someone who can help you.

Media Pack. Create a media pack that contains your business or personal biography, example articles and brochure. It can be handy in approaching print or electronic media for a launch or innovation.

Business Development Activities. Make a commitment to book a number of business development meetings with interested parties for coffee, a meal or at your premises. Attend seminars, trade shows and events. Don't be invisible. Be proactive and have fun.

Referral System. How do people refer work to you? Draft how people can refer work to you and tell them. Ask customers for testimonials and referrals if you are proud of your work and have delivered results.

Give Give Give. Offer your target market a chance to understand you, to taste your product or service and get to know you. Offer a review, a checklist or a sample. Give them a reason to contact you and work with you. Don't be precious about your knowledge.

Darren Bourke, Business Influence, 2008. You are welcome to "reprint" this article online as long as it remains complete (including the "about the author" information at the end).

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