How can you make 1 + 1 = 5? Link up with another company that also markets to your potential customers and create win/win cross-promotional offers. The resulting synergy can create greater opportunities for both of you.

Need some help brainstorming possible cross-promotion partners and ideas? Give me a call. As your marketing writer my job is to help you succeed.

Looking for ways to stand out from your competition and stretch your marketing dollars? Consider joining forces with another, non-competing business that also sells to your target audience. By cross-promoting each other’s products and services you can obtain access to customers and markets you might not otherwise reach, gain marketing resources you might lack, save money, and offer greater value to your own customers.

What to Look for in a Cross-Promotion Partner

First and foremost you need to work with a company that’s reputable and trustworthy, because joining forces means linking reputations as well. Be sure that you and your potential partner really are after the same target market. Determine if you bring different resources to the table. Consider if this is someone you feel comfortable working with, and try to gauge if you are both equally committed to the success of the partnership.

Ideas for Cross-Promotions

The possibilities for cross-promotions are limited only by your imagination. Consider the following ideas:

• Give a Free Gift with Purchase: Your customers receive your partner’s product or service, and vice versa.
  
  
• Host an Event: You and your partner(s) work together to create and market a seminar, workshop, demonstration, celebrity appearance, or other event.
  
  
• Distribute a Combined Mailing: Pool mailing lists and send out a joint promotional postcard, email offer, newsletter, or other marketing piece.
  
  
• Bundle Your Services: Offer a reduced price, special service, or other convenience if a customer buys from both you and your partner.
  
  
• Share Space: Consider sharing a booth at a trade show or community event.

Sealing the Deal

As with any partnership, be sure that you are both clear about expectations. A simple written agreement that specifies what each of you will contribute, including time, money, products or services, etc., will go a long way towards avoiding misunderstandings and making the partnership a success.