Many signs are pointing towards better times ahead for the A/E/C industry, but new work isn't going to just float in your door. Get a jump on your competition by trying one of these three innovative marketing ideas.

1. Be a Sponsor
Most communities have youth sports leagues, and maybe you've sponsored a team or two in the past with middling results. Well this year try ramping it up. Instead of sponsoring one soccer team or one T-ball team, sponsor one team at each age and skill level. Most such sponsorships only cost a couple of hundred dollars, so for $2 grand or so you could have the attention of the whole league. Now, remember who sees those uniforms with your name on the back: parents of young children. These are the people renovating their homes, building new homes, and generally seeking A/E/C services. Take your sponsorship beyond just money. Go to some games, introduce yourself to the coaches, and sponsor a team party after the season. At each turn your company and your face will become better known to this prime demographic. One new customer will make the entire sponsorship worthwhile!

2. Be the Click-and-Clack of A/E/C
Want to show the world how knowledgeable you are about residential design, masonry, home repair, or whatever your specialty is? Try starting your own radio program. This is not as complicated as it sounds, and you have several options. Many small stations sell blocks of time to people interested in doing their own shows, and the internet is full of broadcast opportunities. Do a little internet research in your area. Once you're on the air, focus on what you know best. Bring some prepared material, and be ready to answer questions from callers. Before long you'll be known as the local expert in your area!

3. Knock on Doors
OK, this one takes some guts, but you'll be amazed at the results. Set aside an afternoon each week to sell your services door to door. Dress nicely, prepare a quick pitch, and be ready to leave if the person answering the door isn't interested. You'll be delighted by how many people are willing to hear a pitch from a well-dressed, well-mannered person offering a valuable service. Sure, most people will be uninterested, but if you make one sale a week this way your time will be well spent.

Tags: Marketing