Best way to market a startup

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What do you guys think the best way to market a start up is? My company deals with property maintance specifically aimed at serving real estate agents and strip malls. How should i go about getting the word out? im thinking about flyering but does that seem unprofessional, should i mail it out instead? I'm making a online add through yellowpages as well as a webpage too. Any other sugestions would be great

thank you in advance...

[TylerBakerllc]

Most real estate companies and agents will join or hold a monthly luncheon and are part of a vast network that is very influential among their peers. I would consider finding as many luncheons, chamber of commerce events (seminars, networking events, brunches, etc.), and trade shows and promoting yourself with a very unique business card. Think outside the box on this one, it will generate a interest almost immediately.

When you say property maintenance, does that include turf care as well as improvements and repairs?

On your website, consider some kind of video offering tips to visitors regarding fertilization, signs of furnace filter wear, offer "green" tips... Or maybe include a video featuring satisfied client testimonials or a special message from you- The owner.

The yellow pages is a great source of revenue, no doubt, so good job there... Also, maybe you could donate monthly service to a local disadvantaged school, or church. If you do land a gig like this, be sure to announce your generosity via a press release to local media.. They usually eat this up because it is a dose of good news compared to most news.

The most important thing is to stick with the marketing aspect through thick and thin... Even if it appears to not generate immediate results, you never know what the future holds. Always tweak your marketing campaign and be thinking of ways to improve. It will all pay off eventually.

I hope this helped. If you have any more marketing questions, feel free to PM me... I do it for a living. If things take off for you, don't neglect marketing just because business is good, that is also a common mistake. You always want to be filling your sales funnel with new prospects.

Take care.
-Tyler

[SOCMiles]

Greeting Card Campaign! You should be able to get a list of all state licensees through your state's Real Estate Commission.

You need to connect with the people in your target market at the relationship level. Building solid relationships is your foundation.

[Peter.j.bea]

I couldn't agree with Tyler more in his comment. You do have to establish an outstanding identity in your community, chamber of commerce and local media. This will set you apart from so many other or your competitors who have had a chance to develop their own branding or name with their longevity.

Personally, I have not has AS MUCH luck with yellow pages for companies I have worked for, but consider your general locality. Are you in a town where people seem to be younger, more internet savy etc? If so, people dont often use yellow pages, they are more likely to go to Yelp.com or possibly city search for reviews on your site.

Be sure to keep a solid relationship with those you even may be outbid on or lose a contract with, always ask for a good reference and build that web 2.0 identity for those looking to research you (as most will in your field).

Avoid fliers all together. I would recommend simply walking into an office and introducing yourself, your intentions your background, your business model etc. I would also recommend researching realty investment groups and leasing offices. There are also government contracts you can bid on, network with contracts etc.

Personally, I would recommend avoiding the Real estate agents themselves (Is use to be contracted by a Title company and implemented a sales tactics process). They all have a VERY short attention span and are becoming more and more smash and bang salesmen. But do your best to get in the door t the appropriate times with the people that matter, research the firms and your contacts at great length.

[byrneof]

Use Google Pay Per Click (PPC) search ads targeted specifically at your region. Use LinkedIn and join a real estate group and try to connect with real estate agents from your area. I agree with all previous posts.

It's all about relationships. Word of mouth is key and once you establish one solid a relationship more contacts will follow from that relationship. However, you must offer an exceptional service.

I have found that when you ask a client if they know anyone else who may be interested in your service they normally make the introductions for you.

[bking]

If you're in property management, also consider keeping an eye out in the paper for recent property transactions. When you see a clear investor (a corporation, LLC, etc., or a person who buys LOTS of property), cold-call or send a letter to the property explaining your services. They might be surprised by the unique touch, and you may be the first person hitting them on location at their newest investment.