4 Timely Marketing Tips From the Farmer's Market

 

One of my favorite activities during the summer months is visiting the local Farmer's Market. And this year did not disappoint, folks! 

I love, love, love the foods, fellowship, and the opportunity to eat healthy and support local vendors. It's a win/win for all.

Every year, it seems there is something new to explore; new products; new people; new experiences; new memories to cultivate. Yay!

To my delight, we even had wonderful weather; which unfortunately is not always the case. Our local market is typically operated on Sundays, from about 9:00 a.m. until early afternoon. The early morning time slot suits me well. I spent a few hours walking from booth to booth, availed myself to as many free samples as my tummy would allow. Pigged out on bbq rib tips and mac and cheese, and enjoyed some great sounds provided by a local artist. It was bodacious!

Of course the writer in me walked away with a bonus benefit. 

Accordingly, below are a few marketing tips I garnered from my interaction with entrepreneurs of various industries and interests. 

Here's some "food for thought" for today's authors and writers on marketing and promotions. 

Pencils ready? 

1. BUSINESS CARDS ARE STILL A WISE INVESTMENT

Even in this day and age of social media and online connections, business cards are still a necessity. Why? Glad you asked. Simply put, without them you limit your reach. You miss out on making money and cultivating future relationships.

Believe it or not, not everyone you encounter will be tech savvy. Older audience members/consumers may not want to "follow you on Facebook" or hit you up on Twitter, or scan your QR code. They may not have access to a computer or Smart phone, even. Hello? Also, business cards provide a visual aide for people to remember you by, to save for future reference. Sadly, so many of the vendors at the market didn't have them when I requested. And subsequently, looking these folks up on Facebook was frustrating and time consuming. If I have to look you up, you may miss our hook up!  

2. WHENEVER POSSIBLE, PROVIDE FREEBIES 

In many instances, it can increase sales and generate greater interest for your products or services. For example, if you're conducting a book signing, giving away free bookmarks, free treats, or promotional pens can work in your favor. With today's economy, many people are very cost conscious and don't like to waste money. Sampling can remove hesitancy and create confidence in your offerings.

3. FIND A WAY TO DIFFERENTIATE YOURSELF FROM COMPETITORS

I noticed that some vendors had eye-appealing banners, or clever slogans, or more affordable prices for comparable items, to get noticed and enhance their sales. You should too.

4. CUSTOMER SERVICE COUNTS

At the end of the day, business is all about relationships. People often buy from people they like and trust. Seek to be one of them. If you're selling books, or teaching writing classes, or running a blog, give followers and customers value for their time and money. Be professional. Show appreciation for their support. It's the best way to encourage future business growth and customer loyalty.

Your turn, readers.

Thoughts? Agree or disagree? Any famer's market fans out there?

Thanks for reading.

 

Image credits: 

Pixabay.com