The key to a successful business is having a strong customer base. New businesses need to be able to establish themselves in their intended market to be able to generate revenue. Once you've figured out your niche market, it's time to get your name out there and make your business known to potential customers. Even stable, established companies need to continue marketing their services to maintain their good business. Here are three ways to effectively promote your business:

1. Be accessible. Be online. These days, people rely on the internet when looking for the services they need. Having an online presence makes it easier for potential customers to find your business and avail your services.

• Have a good website. It must be user-friendly and filled with helpful and useful content to inform people of your services. Getting your website optimized for search engines is also important, so you could be easily found through Google and other search engines.

• Join social media networks like Twitter or Facebook to extend your customer reach. Being active on these networks also makes your business even more accessible and likeable to potential clients.

• Blog unique and relevant content. It's one thing to list your services, and it's another to talk about them. Write content that would show people what your services can do, and illustrate how you can help enrich potential customers' lives. You can also blog about subjects that are related to your trade, or business in general to educate and even entertain your readers and potential customers.

2. Be visible. Be involved. Another means of exposure is by participating in community events and trade shows. This also helps in networking with other businesses and would help you to establish a mutually beneficial relationship with some of them. Step the advertising up a notch by giving out promotional items to visitors attending the shows and events. Having people sport shirts and carry other items with your business logo and slogan is a great way to establish business visibility and have potential customers remember your business should they need to avail of your particular service.

3. Be creative and be generous. Find ways to promote your business through contests and giveaways. Discounts and freebies are effectively attract potential customers, and would be helpful in maintaining customer loyalty. Having periodic or seasonal promos would be ideal for introducing your business to new customers and strengthening ties with your current customers.