Weeeelllllll... it depends - how long have you been in business? If you are starting out, joining your local Builders Association and/or Chamber of Commerce is a start, AND GETTING INVOLVED WITH THEM! My early days of business grew by joining my local Chamber of Commerce and then becoming a Chamber Ambassador and getting involved with functions that they did. Networking and talking to people grew my business. Sometimes is not what you know, but WHO you know. Who you know brings referrals, which brings business your way. If you've been in business awhile, and you aren't a member of the above, or other organizations (i.e., Rotary, Sertoma, a Veteran's Organization, etc). I've been in business 22 years now and 70% of my customers are repeat. Through the years, radio and paper advertising are very expensive; and I've done them for a year - no customers during the year of advertising, no renew. Customer service is the key - on arrival give them your business card and don't be rushed to leave for your next customer, a few minutes of talking with the current customer leaves a lasting impression, and referrals; especially if they are new to the area and you give them a Chamber of Commerce directory (which usually has demographics of your county in it, and if you've bought a ad in it) helps to promote your business. I hope that my feedback will help you in some way that you haven't thought of.

John L. Porter, Porter's Locksmithing, Crystal River, FL