MARKETING TOP 10 MARKETING TIPS FOR START-UPS INVEST IN A LOGO It's important to build a brand that reflects what you'd like your business to become. "A professionally designed logo will communicate the sort of image and personality you'd like your customers to identify with," says Phil. Make sure you use it on all your documents, including in your email signature. LEARN TO NETWORK You may not be confident in public speaking yet, but there are lots of organisations who are always looking for guest speakers, from the WI to organisations that run regular events for the local business community. Find one with members who fit your customer profile, go along on an informal basis and talk to them about your business. Once you feel more confident, sign up to be a speaker. START BLOGGING "Creating and sharing engaging, valuable blog content that is relevant to your target audience is one of the smartest marketing investments a new business can make," says Linsay. "Do it right and you'll reap the rewards with better quality inbound website traffic and leads. Research points time and again to how higher quality leads are generated by relevant blogging." USE THE LOCAL PRESS Make yourself known to local newspaper editors and make the most of the media on your doorstep. The launch of a new business is a good local story and you're targeting potential customers who live in your area. Plus it won't cost a thing! GET NOTICED Make sure you're aware of what's going on within your industry as well 215