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publicity (2)

Like to Talk and Looking for Some PR?

Posted by Connie Mettler on June 29, 2011 at 7:00pm

8871883283?profile=originalThis summer art fair season, local media in all the art fair towns are likely looking to interview artists like you. In fact, people who host radio shows, podcasts, and TV talk shows are always searching for guests to interview on their programs. They have to fill all those minutes on the air!

As an artist you have interesting expertise and stories just waiting to be tapped. In addition, I know many of you are experts in other areas as well.

If you are an expert artist who would like to be interviewed by the media RadioGuestList.com may be a good place for you to get some free publicity for yourself and your art.

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Its "Guest Request" emails are free and they'll arrive in your mailbox daily with interview guest requests from Radio Guest List's thousands of talk show hosts and producers who are looking for guests.

Why not subscribe now? Learn more and subscribe here: http://www.radioguestlist.com/radio-talk-show-guests.html

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40 Questions Craft Artist Blog Series - Question #29 Should I give away free samples and what are some samples I could give away?

Posted by Michelle Sholund on August 9, 2010 at 9:23am

No matter what type of show I do, or visit, I always see people carrying around freebies. When I promoted an expo for artists several years ago, I did get several freebies for attendees as a sign of appreciation and to remember the event come one year later – to hopefully attend again. We gave away pens, anti-bacterial gel, and bumper stickers – all very affordable. But I know what you are thinking – that was an expo, artists don't give their work away for free nor have money to give things away for free! I agree – you can't afford to, but in some ways, you can't afford not to. This is an advertising expense and while it isn't common to do an ad in the paper or pay for ads online, one of the best things an artist can do is capture the attention of those who already attend shows. However, there is an underlying question.... if you give away something will it hurt or help you in the long run?

Question #29 Should I give away free samples and what are some samples I could give away?

First of all, I want to say this idea, of giving away free samples, will not work for everyone and every medium. There are craft artists who find it far more effective to capture names and email address for mailing newsletters and announcements. And I agree with this too. What I have learned though is people now are more conditioned to expect to get something for free, on sale, etc. when at a show and then shop. Some – not all – do remember the freebies people give away though...

Freebies can come in many forms. Here are a few suggestions:
1 Coupons – print out your own on either business card paper or note card paper mentioning that if the customers present this at a future show they will get XX% off their purchase at that show.
2 Magnets – check out online printing companies that offer magnet business cards and ask customers if they want a free magnet!
3 Pens – everyone can always use a pen, simply have your business name and website printed on them and you are set!
4 Trading cards – many photographers do this already, offering customers trading cards of simple or popular photographs unique to their own work with business information on it.
5 Candy/mints – People rarely refuse a free piece of candy – a tootise roll, a mint, nostalgic candy, etc. - and remember the gesture especially if you are the “lifesaver” who saved them from a coughing attack.
6 Recipes – If you sell dip containers or stoneware bakeware offer a free recipe with a photo of your work or of yourself making the pottery on the recipe card!
7 Stickers – I often see kids at shows, yet not enough stuff to entertain the kids. Make your own stickers – there are some VERY affordable sticker makers which you can create your own, marketing your work. Not only does it entertain kids, it gives parents time to shop.
8 Bookmarks – They are easy to make and can include anything from your logo, photographs of your work, and so on.
9 Make your own key chains – Use your scraps to make key chains – scrap pieces of leather, fabric, ribbon, cord with a bead or two, and have your name and website attached to it.
10. Jewelry cleaning kits. Those who make and sell jewelry can make up a simple jewelry cleaning kit and let buyers know they get one free with any purchase. Or offer a card stating “Free Lifetime Guarantee” and how to go about contacting you if a chain or clasp breaks and so on.

When I do shows I will either give away candy (especially around Halloween and Christmas) and other times coupons or a flower – if I have a lot in my garden. Everyone doesn't take the bait, but I often get repeat customers who do remember me, and while at that show recounts how nice I was to their friend and browse and shop. Sometimes their friend buys something! Needless to say $5.00 of mini candies or a couple of printed business cards with a coupon is very cheap and can be very effective when it comes to marketing – every little bit helps in getting the word out about your business.

If you are inspired to try giving away freebies, share your results here and comment away. Also, if you are strongly against this, feel free to share your opinions on that too and why you feel that way. All are welcome to comment and share your personal story about this post and past posts too. Have a great week – see you next time with more questions and answers to popular art fair issues. Michelle Sholund www.quickcraftartisttips.blogspot.com.
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