People in small business often wonder how they can compete against other businesses who spend a lot of money on advertising. There are a number of ways - but the most inexpensive is by giving quality service, asking for feedback, keeping in touch, getting referrals, and doing those things that a large business cannot do so easily.

You must develop an Advertisng and Marketing Plan - for a small business it might be a simple one, of two - five pages or even less. At least have one.

Set out for yourself what your standard of service will be, how you are going to advertise and market your business, and your standards, and even how you can measure your success. You will find more information if you do a Google - you are bound to find marketing plans that you can adapt for your own use.

One things that makes you stand out above the rest if offering quality service and genuine thanks. Thank your customer or client for their business. Few people do it - and even less do it in a personal way. It is something easy and inexpensive for small businesses to do.

How would you feel if you have just spend say $150 on an item, and in the mail a few days later, was a thank you card from the person with whom you did business?

Just say it was from your electrician, plumber, or your computer consultant. A card saying " Thank you - it was a pleasure to do business with you. I thank you for your business. Signed xxxx

Now one extra thing you need to do if you are sending out such cards = include two of your own business cards. You don't have to say it, but one card is for your client, and the other is for a friend.

Now, I can imagine a conversation like this over coffee

"Guess what! I received a thank you card from my (plumber, electrician, consultant)."

Maybe the friend would say "Can I have his/her contact details. It sounds like the sort of person I could do business with and I am looking for a (plumber/electrician/consultant)."

"Oh, I have a spare business card...."

Believe me it works. People are not used to being thanked.

You will be surprised how people not only remember you, but find they want to do business with someone who recognises the value of good customers.