Getting the word out about your business can seem like a larger and more expensive task than actually performing the quality work you are trained for. Don't be daunted; embrace it as you would any other tools on your contractor's truck.

The most effective online advertising can cost nothing to your bottom line. It does require a commitment to providing value for the information seeker. It is known as value added content marketing. Show and share your knowledge to consumers. Do this by:

• Frequenting an online DYI and contracting community, answering questions while having a business related signature.
• Writing blogs or articles about common problems and solutions in your industry.
• Creating videos that demonstrate simple DYI skills, but encourage contracting a professional for more complicated work.
• Convincing contracting and DYI related podcasters to interview you. (Hint: A podcast is like a radio show on the internet.)
  
  Remember, this is advertising that should never look like an ad. While it's perfectly fine to plug your business at the end of a blog, video or interview, consumers are drawn to helpful information and repelled by an obvious effort to sell. By providing value to the consumer and showing them you know your stuff; you are positioning your contracting business in their memory rolodex, or online bookmarks file, should they ever need a contractor in your field.
  
  Consumers believe it is tough to find a trustworthy, competent contractor. By sharing your knowledge, you show that you care about them as more than a paycheck. By providing them with information that is accurate and useful, you prove you are skilled enough to be trusted with the precious investment that is their home.
  
  A website is a must for the next set of free online advertising. Every business these days should have a website if they wish to stay competitive. Your website will be one of the largest sources of information about your business. It is also an important means of attracting and converting potential customers.
  
  Once you have your website set up with information on what your business does, how it can help the customer and how you can be contacted, you want to sweeten it with value added articles and resources to draw the customers in.
  
  If you have a list of contractors or businesses that complement your specialty listed on your site, you can arrange to have a link or banner exchange. This means that as you send business you can't satisfy their way, they will be sending business they can't satisfy your way. All the while, customers have one more reason to bookmark your site. The more they visit your contracting site, the more likely you will be first in their mind when they have a contracting need you can meet.
  
  The final step is advertising to draw customers to your site. You must always integrate popular related keywords into your text (known as SEO: Search Engine Optimization). Contractor directories and review sites are another way customers can find your site or contact information. Ask customers to post a review if they are satisfied with your work.
  
  Remember, home owners select who will work on their house, and who will get repeat business. Link exchange, SEO, review sites, and directories can help customers find you. Value focused advertising helps them choose you. And all of this advertising can be had for free!