, your marketing strategy should correspond to the different groups that you are targeting. You will find in the next paragraphs some common marketing procedures and thoughts which will give you some ideas on how to proceed best with your plan.
Print Publications and Internet Sites
Having your name visible in popular event magazines and websites makes you more accessible to event planners and other professionals who may need or refer your services for their client. Although it doesn't guarantee that your company will be hired instantly, having your company constantly visible to event planners will make it more possible for your company to be short listed in the bids. However, if your location is outside the city, this may not do much good for your business as event publications and websites are more inclined to feature events in the city.
Media
In any community, there will surely be some occasions that would get some press coverage; if you are able to secure the position of caterer for these affairs then you could also find yourself included in the coverage. Giving big discounts to non-profit companies is one way to lure organizations into hiring your company to cater for their more prestigious affairs. You could now promote your business to the press as the company who had provided the excellent catering services. To consistently keep getting press coverage, contracts with your client should include the right to send press releases about the occasion; this should not be difficult as most clients do prefer to get some press coverage. Nonetheless, be ready to do away with this part of the agreement if the client intends the party to be private.
Establish a Formal Referral System
To get more successful referrals, it would be better for your business if you create a formal referral system rather than relying on your customers to spread your expertise to their friends and acquaintances. Clients are more inclined to spread the word on your business if they know that their efforts would be paid back with tangible benefits; you could also make it a point to gather a set number of referrals from each client you serve. Make it a point to thank any client who had successfully brought in a referral, their confidence in your capabilities speak much about your business. A handwritten note or a personally selected gift should be enough to show your client how you value the business they bring to your company.