Joint promotions are a fantastic way to market your small business.  Create deals with some non-competing local businesses.  Agree to endorse each other’s services.  For example, your hardware store could display a stack of brochures for a local home goods or furniture store.  In return, they would offer a coupon for your store to all of their customers.  That way, customers who are interested in home improvement and interior design will have two businesses that are willing to assist them with their project.  They will not feel stressed or confused, with several competitors pulling them in different directions.

 Offer to endorse another business in exchange for their endorsement of your business.  This is a great way to acquire new customers as well as build contacts in the community.