You may need a growing client list now more than ever before. If your inflow of cash is down, however, it can seem tough, even unwise, to put some of those hard-earned dollars toward marketing. Unfortunately, less marketing can lead to fewer clients.

So what can be done? A lot, actually. Read on for six ways to market your business without having to shell out too many of those valuable greens.

Start with the cards. Some websites, like www.bizcard.com, will send you up to 250 business cards for free. Others allow you to customize a card and then print it out yourself (one to try: www.freeprintablebusinesscards.net). Now is a good time to take advantage of these offers. You’ll have a chance to update your look at a low cost.

Build your online presence. Sure, you’ve got a website, but does it need updating? Take some time to study your current site. If you spot things that need to be changed, make the necessary tweaks right away.

Then take it a step further. The web is full of places where you can advertise your business and your expertise for free. Do you have valuable tips to offer customers? Consider starting a blog on your website. Or join a forum and share your expert advice with others.

You might even offer to write an article for another website or blog. Include your contact information so readers know how to reach you. List your business in online directories, like Google Local Business Center, so that it comes up in searches. 

The power of press releases. They’re fairly easy to write and can go a long way. (If you need help getting started, read this article from PRWeb Direct.) Think of recent milestones your business has reached. If one of these is newsworthy, write about it. You can publish your press release for free at Free-Press-Release.com.  

If you want your press release to reach a larger audience, check out the PR Toolkit offered by PR Newswire. When you sign up for one, you’ll receive up to $2,000 in discounts and services. If you decide to get an account, read through all of the terms to make sure you can get the most out of it for your business.

Give out things for free. Think about giving away free samples to customers or ongoing clients. Get the word out by advertising it on your website or even in a local publication. Make the give-away item small enough to fit in your budget, but big enough that it appeals to customers.

Beef up your newsletter. Do you send out an occasional newsletter to clients and potential customers? If so, great. If not, it’s time to start one. Send yours out via the Internet and you’ll save on paper costs.

Make sure your newsletter contains helpful information for readers. Try adding an interview with an expert to an upcoming issue. For help with the design, head to CampaignMonitor.com for some free email templates.

Think events. Want to host a charity event? Take a client out for dinner? Events are a solid opportunity to talk to others about your business. If you’re planning one, think of how you can use the event to build your company’s reputation. Zero in on a potential client, network with others in your industry, and be sure to carry your business cards. Keep building relationships and your business will prosper not only this year, but in the years to come.