This guest post is part of our ongoing Small Business Perspective series, and is written by Audrey Clarke, owner of Professionals Now, LLC in Tampa, FL.

As a small business owner, it is imperative to network and market as much as possible.  We understand that as a small business owner, you don’t have the large budgets for advertising or marketing. Well, there’s good news. You can network and advertise all at once with a name tag. We’ll talk about what type of name tag in just a moment.

First, think about attending a local conference or seminar. If you’re wearing a name tag, even if people don’t stop to speak with you, they’re reading your name tag. If they have need of your services, most likely they’ll stop and chat. It also becomes a conversation piece and a way for you to introduce yourself and your business.  The name tag can be as simple as your name, title and the name of your company. You can add a slogan or what service you provide.  Keep it simple so anyone passing by can read and understand what you do.

Now, let’s talk about the name tag. These are metal name tags and can be designed at your local trophy shop. They range in cost from $7-$10 depending on the area. They can usually be designed and picked up in 2-3 days.

So, when you receive an email or flyer that a local government agency is holding a reverse tradeshow where you can meet and greet government purchasing agents, attend with your name tag. Or you might want to attend a trade show or seminar in your area of expertise.  Most times they have days or areas you can attend if you can’t register for the workshop.

What you should remember is to work the room. Don’t sit in a corner and wait for someone to approach you. Don’t spend too much time with one person, especially if you realize they’re not an end user of your product or service. Meet as many people as possible and pass out your business card. When you determine someone is a candidate for your services, try to schedule a time to have coffee or lunch right then. When you return to your office, send a follow-up email to thank the individual for their time and tell them how much you enjoyed meeting them.

Remember your time is money. Don’t waste time on non-productive meetings. Don’t buy lavish lunches and dinners if you can’t afford it. Buy them a lavish dinner after you’ve sealed the deal and the signed the contract.

Go ahead, work the room.

Audrey Clarke is the manager of her own media relations, public information and process serving company, Professionals Now, LLC, located in Tampa, FL.  To learn more about Audrey and all of our Small Business Perspective authors, click here.