Starting and marketing a small business is no easy feat. It takes time, monumental effort, and dedication. There isn’t a secret formula to overnight success. You need to perfect your offerings, research your audience, and choose proper sales channels. But it all boils down to whether or not people know you exist. Marketing your business the right way is the key to a thriving business. Although there’s no one size fits all solution, some tried-and-true techniques can help your business grow in size and reputation.
Local Online Directories
One of the easiest ways local businesses can be found is through online directories. But the key is to get listed in as many as possible to grab every opportunity. People continue to turn more and more to the internet for answers. Why not claim your online profile, improve your online presence, and appear in their recommendations? When you think of local SEO and getting found online, think of online directories. Google Business Profile is the best place to get started because Google is where most of your audience is. Other directories are Bing, Yelp, NextDoor, Houzz and social media channels.
No small business should be without a website. Create one with all your vital business details. If you already have a website, ensure it’s well-optimized for search engines and conversions. Intuitive design, fast page loading, quality content, clear call-to-actions, mobile-friendliness, etc., make up the essential SEO toolset. There’s a lot more, but this should help you build a solid base.
Social Media Marketing
Social media is one of the cheapest and most effective forms of marketing. If you’re willing to invest in it, you can unleash wonders. Select the right platform, understand your target audience, stick to your brand voice, and consistently publish engaging posts (with eye-catching visuals). Don’t forget to add popular hashtags and drive the audience to your website. Master the basics and be consistent, and you’re on your way to winning at social media.
Invest In Analytics
Do this early on – there are intrinsic benefits to employing data-driven digital marketing strategies. It makes your campaigns more targeted and effective. For instance, Google Analytics gives valuable insights to improve your website performance. Social media analytics are available for free as built-in tools for business accounts. You can use any suitable free or affordable tool to track and measure basic performance metrics and establish better business branding.
Sponsor Local Events
Another local marketing essential is to sponsor community events and build better relationships. It’s a great activity to gain the right exposure and connect directly with your audience. It adds to your business branding efforts, builds community goodwill, and helps you network even without being physically present. It’s engaging, authentic, and absolutely worthwhile!
Final Word
In this article, we’ve only scratched the surface. There are many other ways to refine your strategies, build a solid reputation, and let people know you’re the solution they’re looking for. If you’re struggling to meet your marketing goals, partner with Marsh and Mihaly Marketing Group to find the strategies that make the most sense for your business and clientele. We can help you craft solutions that deliver results from 1-hour consultations to ongoing marketing services. Please write to us at connect@marshandmihalymarketing.com, and let’s get you started on the way to a thriving local marketing strategy.