Business Starting Grants - What are some good ways to get new customers to a new small business, other than advertising in the newspaper?

What are some good ways to get new customers to a new small business, other than advertising in the newspaper?

I am involved with a small new business. Getting new customers is not easy. Newspaper ads are expensive. Are there any small business people who could give me some ideas on getting the word out there? any ideas on how to get people to try a new place?

Public Comments

Get to the library to check out or order "Marketing without Money" by Nicholas E Bade. What a great publication!!!
NEVER, advertise in the newspaper. Never, they have about 3 percent circulation is most major US cities and are expensive with little feedback. I recommend direct mailing most major cities have the "ads" that are mailed weekly, you can pay by zipcode for advertising. Also companies like coupon book and pennysaver that are small advertising books placed in local businesses are far more sucessful and much cheaper. Also, many apartment complexes will let you drop flyers off for free to place in there monthly newsletters if the the ad offers free or discounted services to there residents. You must pay to have the flyers printed and follow the complex rules regarding advertising but that is usually common sense stuff like no adult material. The cheapest most effective flyers are neon colored paper with black ink.
Volunteer for every single charitable organization you can find near where you live. Help out with two events for each charity (one is not enough, they have to see you again to trust you). You will meet more people than you know what to do with. Exchange business cards, send personal e-mails, nice to meet you, etc. with a signature line reminding them of your business (which is already on your business card). Get to know these people and your business will grow so fast you won't believe it.