1. Know your audience

As a small business owner, you might not have all of the resources of a larger organization, so make sure you use every resource you have to your advantage. Knowing your target audience is necessary before embarking on any sort of market activity. By knowing the demographics and psychographics of your target audience, you will be able to create a more targeted and efficient campaign.

2. Spread the word

Word-of-mouth advertising is a great way to reach your target market. Use your satisfied customers as brand ambassadors. If you provide some sort of incentive for referrals, your happy customers will benefit and so will your business.

3. Be goal oriented

Set goals for your business. Make sure you have a timeline associated with your goals. If you do not have a clear path, you will never know how you are doing. Put together a comprehensive business and marketing plan to track and maintain your success. If you plan and are prepared, you are more likely to be profitable.

4. The customer is always right

Even if the customer is wrong, the importance of good customer service is invaluable. Make sure you treat your customers well, provide solutions for their problems, and listen to their concerns and feedback. If you are respectful to them, they will appreciate you, come back, and will be more likely to become brand ambassadors for your business.

5. Be a social butterfly...a social media butterfly that is

Social media is a great resource that allows businesses of all sizes create a two-way conversation with their current customers. It is also an easy way to generate new customers and interest. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn are just a few sites that provide incredible value to small businesses with limited budgets. Refer to "Social Media #NBD Right? Wrong! for tips on improving the efficiency of your company's social media accounts.