pretty New here so I hope this isn't out of line!

My biggest hurdle in talking to people is convincing them that online and Offline marketing are the SAME thing!

You have a shop so people can come in and buy stuff, your website is the same its just online and allows many more people to see your shop.

I said this in a reply just a minute ago, but its important.

When someone comes into your store for the first time what do you do?
Try and sell them something most times, because you know that when they leave the chances of them coming back are close to zero until they see your next ad or invitation.

When they come to your website what do you try and do?
Yes try and sell them something because again they will probaly not be back anytime soon.

CHANGE your thoughts, If they are in your store, get them on your newsletter, offer them a chance to connect on facebook with your business, offer them the opportunity to stay in touch. "Look we have sales all the time but can't afford big newspaper ads, become a fan on our Facebook page and when I do have a sale you'll know about it, heres the laptop whats your username?"

Same deal with your website, ask for the details so you can stay in touch.

It's not about selling product all the time.

Its about staying in the front of peoples minds so when they want what you have they think of you.

Let your customers Know that you have a new shipment in, let them know that you ordered too many and the price is now 50% off, let them know you need to get rid of the last one of these.

There is a bakery in sydney that has a facebook page and twitter, he uses them to tweet things like.

"just pulled the caramel tarts out of the oven, anyone want a hot one?"

"Just got some new coffee beans in, I need to know if they are any good, $2 coffee for your opinion."

COMMUNICATION with your customers is what will build your business. Once they get to know you they will buy and the refer peple to you as well.

Most of these methods are FREE and very low cost after set-up.
Use the tools and put your facebook in your newspaper ad, have your URL on you car, get a QR code for the front door, have a laptop available in the waiting room.

Imagine a business built on word of mouth and trust, thats the bsuiness I am building how about you?

ODA