1. Get on the Internet. The internet is great isn’t it? It has allowed the small biz owners to reach a potentially huge market and serve their customers 24/7. It has allowed your to market your services worldwide very inexpensively. PLUS: It can make your business seem as big as corporate giants. A well-designed web site can put you on the playing field with the big boys.

2. Using cards you printed and peeled from the office supply store? Quit now! Get some nice, high-end cards designed and printed. Expensive isn’t the idea; having a top-level image is. Use just one color in varying tones to bump up it’s appeal (cheap way to forgo 4-color printing!)

3. Like to talk? Get out into the local business world and join groups. These groups can be little goldmines of leads, support and mentors. Working from home you may find yourself alone for days (or weeks). These groups can be a terrific excuse to get out and mingle!

4. Trade services with another local service. You may not be selling your products, but if you provide excellent service, they will provide referrals…a rich source of great sales.

5. Trade and barter. Selling your products is only part of your job; getting wonderful prospects and resources by trading and bartering can help. Provide great service and see the referrals pour in!

6. Advertise on the cheap by getting some local press. Your local media can get you some of the best FREE „advertising“ around!

7. Be a do-gooder…and tell everyone about it. Give to a worthy cause (time, money or products). Always include your card in your donations. Be sure to promote the fact that you support charities.

8. Goals: Write them down and keep them simple. It‘ old advice, but there’s a reason it’s still around: It works.