Free: The Most Powerful Word in Marketing

FREE is one of the most powerful words in marketing. It's a word that jumps out at most people and catches their attention. When you offer something FREE potential clients are more likely to be interested in what you have to offer, especially if you are still relatively unknown in your field.

There are many creative ways to offer something for FREE. Give potential clients a chance to sample your expertise. Let's say you are a public speaker. The next time you present a weekend seminar or a series of workshops, offer a FREE introductory class. Set an advance date and plan at least one hour of your time to tease them with some of your best material. Dazzle them with your knowledge. Impress them with your credentials. Make it easy for them to say "yes." If the price of your workshops tend to be on the expensive side, a well-planned introductory class will convince potential attendees that your price is well worth the money.

What if you're presenting a two hour workshop to be held once a month or so? How about offering a FREE report on the main topic, ie. valuable information that they may not have access to elsewhere? Another possibility might be a FREE audiotape or CD with some of your best tips.

Perhaps a FREE booklet with some of your stories, ideas or secrets will get them through the door and into the seats.
If you don't have the credentials or expertise to facilitate a workshop that people are interested in, then you may opt for hiring a professional to deliver the information with you. You'd be responsible for planning, marketing and hosting the event. I know from experience that it's a lot of work, but may offer interesting opportunities. It's a win-win situation. Your guests receive valuable information and you can still tie-in your product or service to the information and make back of the room sales.

Whatever your field of interest, think of some creative way to make your presentation a valuable commodity to those who are sitting on the fence. Offer something for FREE that people really want, and you have a powerful marketing tool.