I have never owned my own business so I'm not sure what all to do. I have been studing for my Interior Design Degree to start my own business. I have decided to start while working on my degree, but I am starting in Redesign and Home Staging. I have my name, business cards, and I have created a brochure for Home Staging and I have a website beging built.
I have been researching this area for help and most everyone wants you to pay for training to get acredited. I have learned there is NO ACREDIDATION for Redeisn and home Staging, so I wont waste my money there. Ther are places I cant find help to learn Staging but NOT the business end. I'm not sure how to advertise or market myself. I have no money for it and my credit is bad after my ex-husband stopped paying child support for almost a year (I have four children). I also need to no if there are grants available to me.
I would be greatful for ANY help.
Thank You
Michele

Hi, Michele.

One of your best marketing tools could be examples of your work.

When you get your first customer (and the next one, etc.) and complete the job, make sure to ask them for a testimonial. Also, ask them to refer you to others. They might even without your asking, but ask anyway.

As you get testimonials, have them printed on the back of your business cards. Place them on your website near the top of the main page, and at the top other pages as well. By "top," I mean high enough on the page so your visitor/prospect doesn't have to scroll in order to see it.

Marketing doesn't have to be expensive. Start with your business cards. Carry them everywhere and talk up your business, both in person and on the phone.

Since your market is probably primarily local, you might think about having your website URL imprinted on something you wear or carry with you such as a sweatshirt, tote bag, or both.

Bumper stickers and pens are some of the most inexpensive options for getting your URL in front of as many "eyeballs" as possible.

Good luck!

Nancy
Cheap Advertising Ideas
http://www.CreateYourMarket.com