Cosmetics consultants have the flexibility to market their business as they choose, but unfortunately they are often limited by small advertising budgets. Backing from the corporate office is sometimes available, but for the most-part it's up to the consultant herself to foot the bill for business promotion. Thus, many of these businesspeople are constantly looking for ways to promote their cosmetics business affordably and effectively. Here are some great ideas:
- Mailing Lists - Customers have to see your products to be interested in buying them, so a mailing list is the best way to ensure they receive notification about new products, great sales, and seasonal promotions. In addition, having a mailing list is helpful because you can track your client base and reconnect with those who haven't placed an order in awhile.
- Group Parties - Everyone loves a party! Encourage your best clients to host a party for her friends, family members, and coworkers. Offer the hostess a discount off her order, or even some free product in exchange for a chance to present your business in front of the party guests. If you offer a good enough party promotion, you can even feature it on a car window decal-this is a great way to reach out to a prospective client who will bring you even more new customers!
- Holiday Gift Baskets - Women aren't your only clientele. Husbands, boyfriends, bosses, etc. are another huge market you can reach. By creating bundle deals or gift baskets for the holidays, you are preparing a fun and unique gift that every woman would love. Include this information in your mailers so your clients can tell their significant other what they want for the special day.
- Before-and-Afters - The best way to sell your products is to show potential customers what they can do, so create an archive of before-and-after pictures showing your best makeovers. These can be compiled in a binder which you can take with you to classes and appointments, but you can also use it in your marketing. If you really want to be bold, put your own before-and-after on your car signs! Customers will respond very well when they see how proud you are of your products.
- Social Media - Social-networking is a fun and unique way for consultants to connect with their customers. Create a page for your business so your clients can follow you and stay in the loop with your current promotions and specials. Offer contests, drawings, or daily deals to your followers, which encourage more interaction and keeps your customers excited and happy. In addition, this gives you a forum to share your expertise with your clientele. Consider blogging about makeup tips or skincare-the more-authoritative you seem, the more clients will respond and want to buy from you!
There are many other ways to promote your cosmetics business, but hopefully these 5 give you an idea of where to start. Trying something unique is not only a fun way to promote your business, but it also makes you look current and relevant. Don't be afraid to think outside the box with your promotions-you'll see the results when you make your business stand out!
By Michael Allen
