📈 The $0 Marketing Strategy

In 1997, Apple launched a marketing campaign they called, “Think Different.”

It featured black and white photos of historical figures - Albert Einstein, Bob Dylan, Gandhi, etc.

It was meant to show the uniqueness of Apple products.

It also cost $137 MILLION.

For ONE marketing campaign.

My businesses are proof that marketing doesn’t require a bottomless budget.

Some of the best strategies are absolutely free.

And no, I’m not suggesting you become the guy handing out flyers on a street corner.

With a little creativity and hustle, you can grow your business without spending a single cent.

This is my $0 marketing strategy:

1. Turn Social Media Into Your Stage

Social media is the modern-day town square.

The trick is showing up consistently.

Share your knowledge and don’t be afraid to get personal - it’s the human side of your business that builds trust.

Pro tip: Engage with your audience. Like their comments, answer questions, and start conversations. The algorithm loves interaction, and so do potential customers.

(Bonus tip: Don’t be that guy sliding into every DM with “Hey, wanna buy my stuff?” Nobody likes that guy.)

2. Ask for Referrals

Referrals are pure gold.

Your happy customers will do the selling for you, for free.

Make it easy for customers to refer you.

Add a simple “share with a friend” button to emails, or sweeten the deal with a small reward for referrals.

Don’t overthink it.

People are more likely to share your business when it’s straightforward and hassle-free.

3. Always Network

Business happens in conversations.

Attend local events, join online groups, and connect with other entrepreneurs.

You never know who’s sitting on an opportunity that’s perfect for you.

But remember: Networking is about building relationships, not shoving your pitch in someone’s face.

The best time to make connections is when you DON’T need something.

4. Give Away Value

Want attention? Teach something.

Free advice, how-to guides, or even a quick tip shared online can position you as an expert in your field.

I have plenty of examples on my Twitter.

Customers are far more likely to buy from someone they trust.

Start small: Write a blog, share a LinkedIn post, or create a short video explaining something your audience struggles with.

Over time, you’ll build trust that you can later convert into sales.

5. Leverage Word of Mouth

Make it your goal to deliver such great service that customers can’t help but talk about you.

Whether it’s an exceptional product, killer customer service, or a simple handwritten thank-you note, small gestures go a long way.

(Example: You send your client a Christmas card with your logo, and they hang it on their fridge. When family visits during the holidays, your business is now in front of a whole new group of people. Simple, effective exposure!)

The Bottom Line

Marketing doesn’t have to cost you a fortune.

These strategies don’t just save money.

They build authentic, long-lasting relationships with your customers.

Because at the end of the day, trust beats any ad campaign.

It turns out, Apple’s $137M campaign was one of the most successful in history.

It worked because it connected on a human level.

But you don’t need millions to create that same connection.

Start today. Think different. Hustle smarter.

The Business Blitz Podcast

Last week, I talked to Trenton Hughes, the founder of the entrepreneur network TRIBE.

Listen to Trenton’s incredible story of pushing forward even when your back is against the wall.

Whenever you’re ready, there are 4 ways I can help you:

1. FounderBrands: Drive leads to your business from Twitter / X. Grow your online brand in only one hour per month.

2. Hire me as a consultant to take your business to the next level.

3. Offshore Hiring Guide: Learn how to hire inexpensive ($6 / hour) offshore talent in 3 weeks or less.

4. Promote your business to 1,800+ subscribers by sponsoring my newsletter.

Cheers,

Collin Rutherford

PS. Airlines always act shocked.