Home » Home & Style » Gift Baskets » Generating Publicity

Generating Publicity

© Jowoanna Williams

I've heard it said before that any publicity is better than no publicity at all. I don't happen to agree with that statement although I do believe that there are times when you have to create your own opportunities as well as your own publicity. So, here are some ideas for sending a press release and generating publicity for your business.

Grand Opening - This seems the most obvious reason of all, but think about it, most gift basket businesses are home based or at least start out that way. Most have limited resources and can't afford to spend a lot of money on advertising a new business. When you started your business did you hold an open house, grand opening, or send out any type of announcement at all? I know I didn't.

This is a formal way of introducing yourself to potential customers, as well as the community. Local community newspapers are always looking for an interesting story send them a press release and they may even do an article about your business.

Starting a Company Newsletter - Technology has made it easy and convenient to keep your customers informed of the latest news and information about your business. Perhaps you've been in business for awhile and you're looking for a new way to let customers know about upcoming sales, a new product debut, etc. A newsletter is one way of doing that without the added expense of printing and postage.

FREE Anything - Whether it's a free demonstration, a free class, free information, or free samples it doesn't matter. People love the idea of getting something for nothing.

The "Ex" Factor - Extended hours, store Expansion, Explosive new products. In this case it's "EX" that marks the spot for generating publicity.

Workshop or Seminar That You Are Presenting - With each year that passes by I keep telling myself that this is going to be the year that I develop and host my gift basket design workshop. Sad to say that has yet to happen.

People are always looking for information on how to make their own gifts and gift baskets. Why not have a workshop for those do it yourselfer's. In this case its do as I say and not as I do. Don't procrastinate.

Open House - What better way to say welcome than to host an open house. Whether its to welcome in the holiday season, or to showcase a new product line, hosting a open house with FREE Samples and FREE giveaways is a surefire way to generate publicity and bring the customers in.