By T.Blythe

A dilemma many event organizers face is finding cost effective ways to promote their events. Whether you tackle that initiative on or off-line, finding creative ways to extend the budget can be challenging.  We spoke with some our top notch buddies and decided to give you a small sample of ways to effectively get out your message for close to nothing other than investing in time.

1. LinkedIn – Not just for finding jobs anymore.  Complete your profile 100% then utilize the powerful features of Groups, Events, and the Business profile page.
2. Facebook – Facebook is more than just a way to keep in touch with Aunt Bee.  Create your fan page and utilize it to engage with your fan base.
3. Twitter – is not just for celebrity potty breaks and self-deprecating bathroom mirror photos. Twitter is actually a powerful tool to use in conjunction with other social media outlets. Amongst other things, talk about your event to the people who attend.
4. Youtube – While we all want to “go viral” the object here is to just promote.  Create your own video, infomercial or basic commericial and utilize the “big 3” social media outlets above to promote and create awareness.
5. Location Based Apps – Let’s face it, the world has gone mobile. Social Media is no longer a fad and you can’t ignore the amount of smart phones and tablets taking over our everyday working needs. Tap into the power of the people and use them to help spread the love about you and tell their inner circles where they are. Apps like FourSquare and Locai are ideal for this.
6. Slideshare Presentations – Create a presentation about your event, one idea is a sponsorship proposal presentation to show potential sponsors.  Include links and lots of information.
7. Email Marketing – Email Marketing is more than bombarding your carefully cultivated list with newsletters and “buy me” ads.  Use targeted marketing strategies for certain demographics and locations.
8. Email Signatures – While Email marketing is important, so is your normal everyday email signature. While the basics are important (name, title, phone) you should also include a logo, website link, and social media links.
9. Online Registration – Using a company like Bswarms, you can increase your attendance and keep the event organized.
10. Industry Website Listings – every industry seems to have a “niche” in which you can find specific related websites where people congregate outside the world of normal social media.  Find these websites, blogs or forums and contribute you knowledge about the industry and also post about your event. If your industry has specific calendars you can post the dates and information on for free, then add to them all!

As a bonus we added another nugget of information for you to think about.  Don’t forget your website!

1. Website presence – Having a website which gives information on your event is a must. We don’t recommend spending your whole budget, but first impressions are important when it is you versus your competitor and your audience has one event to choose from. Having a registration page with very large “Register Now” buttons are very important!

So there you have it, 10 +1 small tidbits on how you can market your event for free. The event doesn’t matter, sports to business to fundraising, it can all apply.