With so many different marketing mediums and platforms, you can now gain more leads without necesarily using paid advertising. Don’t get me wrong, advertising products and services, whether done digitally, in print or via other channels is still one of the most effective methods of lead generation. The hesitation of business owners and marketers to use this comes from the cost, and they have to shell out funds to get it going.
If you’re running a business and want to try free or less expensive channels to gain leads, take a look at these alternatives. These can help generate solid leads to include in your sales pipeline.
Ways To Gain More Leads Without Paid Advertising
Lead Magnet/Marketing Offers
Everyone wants a freebie. Whether it’s a free webinar, consultation, ebook, discounts or a free trial period, lead magnets are designed to entice potential clients to the offer in exchange for their details. People will give their name, email, contact numbers, etc. provided that see something of value to them.
Social Media
Most people online have social media accounts, and they use it for just about everything including finding reputable companies that they can trust. It is not just about popularity. Social media should be used strategically to gain leads.
Some of the ways you can do this are:
- Share links to a landing page – Create an attractive social media introductory copy. When the copy shows something of value to them, people will click on the link. Make sure you have an opt-in page where they can give you their details. Have them complete their details before they can access the content. You can also strategically put it right before the end of the piece where you offer something beneficial and the only way they can get it is to provide you with their details.
- Run Contests – Make the mechanics simple and the prize something that they actually want to win. Combine these two elements, and people will surely enter. Keep in mind that the mechanics should include providing you with their details. This is not new as this is also done in most contests.
- Host Live Webinar or Hangout – Present the webinar as a lead magnet. During the video, you can promote your landing page where they can opt-in. Be sure to interact with those who leave comments during the webinar or even after. Respond to their comments, answer their questions and engage with them.
High-Quality, Attractive Content
Create content for your website that people enjoy reading. Blogs are a great way to entice potential customers. This can ‘humanise’ your business and make it completely relatable. It gives people a glimpse of what you can offer and how you can take care of them when they are paying customers.
Opt-In Pages
Add opt-in pages with compelling calls to action to gain more leads. Signalling some urgency at different parts of your website will increase the likelihood of a potential lead giving you their details. Have them in your sidebar, at the end of blog posts or at any point where you think you’ve shared something of value. People are more inclined to share their information when they are satisfied and happy with what they read. This can also build their trust in your business… and it builds your email list!
In summary, lead generation is essential to any business. This is where you develop a list of potential customers that you can nurture and convert to actual paying customers. Remember, you do not have to spend a fortune to generate leads. Looking at different options that are now readily available and using them wisely can do wonders.
If your business needs an effective strategy in lead generation, we’d be happy to help. CONTACT US anytime, and we help you create a strategy that’s right for your business.