When you’re looking for new ideas for your business, you need to look outside the box... What other businesses that you know of are using marketing that is working? Why is it working? And what can you do to adapt those ideas for your business?

Your local car sales yard probably offers FREE yearly checkups in order to bring in consumers and convince them to buy a new car. The key word here is free.

Consumers love to be offered complimentary products or services and will come flocking in through your doors if they know they can leave with something and never spend a penny. Of course, the key is to offer them a product or service that will have them coming back for more.

What product or service is up to you. But regardless, the marketing tactic remains the same. Just because you see a business marketing tactic used in a business that has NOTHING to do with your service, does not mean it cannot be adjusted and changed to work for you!

Most importantly, when you are selecting what to use as a ‘carrot’ to attract new clients, make sure its something that doesn’t cost you anything (or a minimum very little). Ie something you can keep on giving away without adverse affect to you - But with enough value that its going to attract new clients in.

Let’s say you are running a successful spa but profits are down and you have no idea how to drum up new business. As you drive to work one morning, you notice the gym is offering a discount on memberships to boost their own sales.

A light bulb should immediately come on over your head. Why not try to offer a stress relief membership complete with relaxation classes, health education and, of course, a wealth of spa values? The gym may have nothing to do with your health business, but they know how to make money and increase their profit.

Marketing is a cut throat business and with so many choices, the consumer needs to be given a unique opportunity in order to choose YOUR product or service over those of your nearest competitor. Taking ideas from businesses unrelated to you and changing that idea just enough to fit into your business mold can make you more money and increase the number of clients you see every day.

Nearly every business in your local area is competing for the same money in your client’s pockets. Taking an idea or two and adapting that marketing idea work for your business makes great business sense. It is making the best business decision for your profits, your clients and your money.