If a business wants to increase its sales, it should essentially advertise itself and be made known to the common public, who are their potential customers. Since advertising has a major role to play in increasing the profits of a company, more firms are considering it as a necessity. For large conglomerates and corporations, it is easy to shell out the required capital for a successful and extravagant product launch. However, for small companies, it is not really possible to spend on advertising strategies that need a substantial budget. For such companies, there are some inexpensive ways that can help get them the publicity required for product promotions. Word of Mouth This is an advertising technique that does not require any costs to be incurred. When your customers are happy with the services provided to them by your company, they will, most likely, recommend the product to their friends and family. You too can advertise your business by telling your friends, relatives, colleagues, and regular satisfied customers about the services you render. Use the quality of service to be an advertiser for your business. Advertisements on Products Placing ads on products is one of the marketing strategies suitable for small businesses. It requires minimum cost, but provides effective publicity. You can print your company name, website, and/or contact number on products such as pens, notepads, calendars, bumper stickers, coffee cups, etc. For business startup's promotional advertising, you can distribute such products for free in your locality or at business conferences. Online Forums, Social Networking, and Blogging Utilizing the resources of the internet is one of the best methods for promoting a small business. There are many things you can do online that will publicize your business to a greater extent. You can participate in online forums to mention your business and the products and services your offer. You also have the option of using well-known social networking websites as a means of advertising. Blogging is another good method for free promotion on the Internet. Use University Students as Marketers There are many university students who are constantly in search of part-time jobs. You can get in touch with such students and ask them if they can do some marketing jobs for your business. You can ask them to distribute fliers and brochures of your business. Get bumper stickers distributed which include information about your business. Ask college students to advertise your business among other students and in their college campuses. Website and Email You can post your company advertisement on widely viewed shopping and services websites. Small businesses can surely afford website and email advertising, as the rates are low. You do have an option of carrying out email marketing from your own business website address. Sort out the list of potential consumers that you think can be turned into actual customers, and send emails with the service offerings. Newspapers and Magazines You can avail the facility of classifieds in local newspapers to publicize your business. Paid advertisements in magazines and newspapers are also an affordable option. As newspapers are read by people on a large scale, it is likely that you will get noticed for your services. With effective advertising, also remember to keep the quality of your products and services as per the expectations of the consumers.