Running a small business means you wear a lot of hats. You’re the sales rep and manager, handling shipping and accounting. And, of course, you handle the marketing, too. But running your own business means you’ve got to be smart about reaching your customers, and with a new year, it’s time to think about fresh marketing strategies to help your small business stand out.
Running a small business means you have to be smart about reaching your customers. Here are five ideas for your small business marketing strategy:
1. Leverage Social Media Stories and Reels
Social media is constantly changing; right now, stories and reels are where it's at. These short, engaging videos can show off your products or services in action. They're fun and quick, and people love watching them. Plus, trends constantly change, so you can keep your content fresh by following the latest trends and sounds.
Pro Tip: Speaking of trends, make sure you’re following trends that truly fit your business. Do your research and be true to your brand.
2. Use Data to Personalize Your Small Business Marketing
Personalizing your marketing with data is essential. Use information from past purchases, website visits, and social media interactions to tailor your marketing messages. Send emails that suggest products they might like or offer deals on items they've shown interest in.
Pro Tip: If you can’t sign up for reporting software like DashThis, check the backend of your marketing accounts for data.
3. Collaborate with Other Small Businesses
Two heads are better than one, right? Partner up with other small businesses to cross-promote each other. This could mean putting flyers in each other's stores, hosting joint events, or running social media campaigns together, like giveaways. It's a win-win: you get access to their customers, and they get access to yours.
Pro Tip: Holidays are a fantastic way to get this conversation started. Think Valentine’s Day, the holidays, or hell, even International Pizza Day!
4. Create How-To Content
Teach your customers something related to what you sell. If you own a bakery, share a video on how to decorate cupcakes. Run a tech store? Write blog posts about keeping gadgets clean. This type of content shows you know your stuff and helps customers feel more connected to your business.
Pro Tip: Make this into a series! It’s a great way to plan your content so you’re not struggling for ideas.
5. Invest in Local SEO
When people search for businesses like yours online, you want to be at the top of the list. That's where local SEO comes in. Make sure your business is listed on Google My Business, use local keywords on your website, and encourage happy customers to leave reviews. The better your local SEO, the easier it is for people nearby to find you.
Pro Tip: Stay away from Google Ads. I repeat - stay away from Google Ads! If you live in a metropolitan area versus a more rural one, Google Ads are more than likely saturated and won’t yield a great return on investment.
Remember, marketing doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. It's all about connecting with your customers in genuine and exciting ways. Try these strategies in 2024, and watch your small business grow!
