$$$ From In-Person Marketing

I'd just like to point out of benefits of in-person marketing.

Let's consider what you might be selling locally. Some possibles:

- Hosting
- Web Design
- Online Marketing
- Social Media Management

Hundreds of other products and services exist, but we'll consider those.

The typical local business receives hundreds of emails a year promoting those 4 items. Now and again, they'll even receive direct mail, and perhaps the famous "pen trick." Now, I use email extensively for many purposes (domaining, being one), but you have to know what you're doing. In-person marketing, however - well, that's another story. That face-to-face communication makes the selling process so much easier, infinitely more powerful than an email, an email that can be dismissed by the mere click of a delete button.

If you're attempting to grow a local online business, and you need the cooperation of local offline businesses, I'd suggest this:

1. Target local businesses.
2. Collect Information to personalize your approach.
3. Get some hard-copy promo materials.
4. Walk in and speak to the decision-maker.

Now don't go in all guns blazing and sell. Walk in and adopt a friendly, polite, easy-going demeanor. You're a local business; they're a local business. Speak to them on a level footing and just - for lack of a better word - chat. I honestly don't believe anyone, with a little confidence and a good product and service, could venture out and not bring back some sales. Local businesses are tired of the digital approach. Take your approach to their front door, walk through, and have a friendly, honest-to-goodness chat.

Tom