28 Publicity Ideas to Promote Your Business for Free
You don't need a Super Bowl budget to get attention. In fact, some of the most effective marketing is organic, creative, and completely free. Here are 28 ways to generate buzz for your business without spending a dime on ads.
Key Takeaways
- Leverage Media: Become a source for local news and blogs.
- Community Involvement: Volunteer, speak, and teach.
- Content: Create shareable, viral-worthy content.
- Networking: Build real relationships, not just contacts.
Media & PR
- Write a Press Release: Announce a new product, hire, or milestone. Submit it to local papers.
- Be a Guest on a Podcast: Find niche podcasts in your industry and offer to share your expertise.
- Write a Letter to the Editor: Respond to a local news story with your professional opinion.
- Host a Free Workshop: Teach people something valuable. It establishes you as an expert.
- Enter Business Awards: Winning (or even being nominated) is great PR.
- Newsjack: Piggyback on a trending news topic with a relevant blog post or social media take.
Community & Networking
- Partner with a Charity: Volunteer your team's time. It feels good and looks good.
- Speak at Local Events: Rotary clubs and chambers of commerce are always looking for speakers.
- Cross-Promote: Partner with a non-competing business to share flyers or social posts.
- Host a Networking Event: Be the connector. Host a morning coffee mixer.
- Donate a Prize: Give a product or service to a local charity auction.
- Sponsor a Local Team: (Okay, this might cost a little for jerseys, but coaching is free!)
Digital & Content
- Start a Blog: Share your knowledge freely.
- Guest Post: Write articles for other popular blogs in your niche.
- Create an Infographic: Visual data is highly shareable.
- Run a Social Media Contest: "Like and Share to Win."
- Go Live: Use Facebook or Instagram Live to do a Q&A.
- Comment on Blogs: Leave thoughtful comments on industry sites (don't spam).
- Create a YouTube Tutorial: "How-to" videos are evergreen traffic drivers.
- Claim Online Listings: Google, Yelp, Bing—make sure you are everywhere.
Creative & Guerrilla
- Chalk Art: If you have a storefront, use the sidewalk (check local laws!).
- Wear Your Brand: Branded t-shirts are walking billboards.
- Vehicle Decals: Turn your car into a mobile ad.
- Referral Program: Give existing customers a bonus for bringing a friend.
- Email Signature: Add a link to your latest offer in every email you send.
- Testimonials: Ask happy clients to post about you on their social media.
- Free Samples: If you sell food or products, get them in people's hands.
- Be Controversy (Carefully): Take a stand on a safe industry debate (e.g., "Pineapple belongs on pizza").
Conclusion
Publicity is about creativity, not cash. Pick three of these ideas and implement them this week. Consistency is key—keep showing up, keep adding value, and the attention will follow.
