Maybe you've heard the term: Build a better mousetrap and they will come.

We'll, as great as it sounds, even the best mousetrap still won't sell if people don't know it exists. They still won't buy it if they don't see the value in it.

In today's age where people are swamped with advertising messages all the time, you need a better message than everyone else to stand out and be noticed.

1. Do whatever it takes to 'shock' your audience
What are you doing to stand out from the crowd? You need to stand out like a sore thumb and make sure you are remembered.

What are you doing in your branding that makes you and your product memorable? You can't be shy here. Show enthusiasm in your product and services. Show people that you love what you are doing. This alone will make a huge impact. Be known as the guy or girl that lights up the room.

2. It's not just about the sale
Do you know "the guy"? You know, the guy that walks up asks your name and then proceeds to talk for 20 minutes about how wonderful his product is and how EVERYONE needs his product? Ya' that guy.

Don't be that guy. Start by building a relationship

3. Make it an experience
In today's age more than in the last 20 years, people are buying from people, not companies.

I'm sure you've heard that phrase before but it's more true than ever.

When I go to a coffee shop, I tend to go more because of the environment and people than the coffee. I have a shop I went to for years because of the people there and how friendly they were. Honestly, I didn't like their coffee much. I was there because of the experience they gave me. Friendly people. Big tables for my laptop and a nice space overall.

4. Always be promoting
As the great P.T. Barnum was known as the greatest promoter on Earth, you too have to be promoting at all times. Now I don't mean always be pitching but always be prepared to talk about what you can offer others. The biggest question you should be asking the people you meet is "How can I serve you?"

Always have your business cards handy. Offer advise to others related to what you do and how they can benefit from your products and services. What problem do they have that you have the solution to? How can you save them time, money or simplify their hectic life?

If you keep these things in mind with your business and do everything you can to keep in front of your prospects and customers, you will have a head up against anyone else in your industry.

Quite honestly, most businesses spend a tone of money on advertising and unfocused marketing that isn't even paying for itself. These simple steps alone will get your name out there much easier and build a better reputation for yourself and your company than any paid advertising you could buy.