Usually out of sheer cost-saving concerns, many small businesses opt to develop their own marketing and promotional campaigns.

"If you lack the big corporate budget, you just need to tap into your creativity," writes Christine Davis for SeacoastOnline.com. "At the very least, get out in your community and get involved. Grassroots networking is still a great way to get your name out there."

While such a strategy can certainly be a wise one, it is important that business owners also recognize the extent of their creative ability and advertising know-how. Because as fun as designing a marketing initiative may be, a poorly planned campaign can be a disastrous waste of money that serves only to put a damper on your public image.

For that matter, bring in as many voices as possible for feedback in your brainstorming sessions. Managers should be careful to promote an open dialogue in which employees are not afraid to critique their bosses' ideas.

The top marketing firms in the world develop creative content in this manner, with several voices bouncing off each other and working toward some greater idea. While small firms forming an LLC in New York may not be able to afford multi-million dollar ad campaigns, they can certainly learn about where inspiration comes from and how it can be encouraged.

Tags : form an llc, sales & marketing, small business management

Posted: May 16th, 2011