Boost Your Small Business with Online Marketing
- mreverythinglocal
- Oct 7
- 4 min read
Running a small business in today’s world means you need to be visible online. Whether you’re a builder, a tradesman, or run a local shop, having a strong online presence can make all the difference. I’ve seen how simple, smart online marketing can help local businesses attract more customers and grow steadily. In this post, I’ll share practical tips and strategies that you can start using right away to boost your business online.
Why Small Business Online Strategies Matter
You might wonder why online marketing is so important for small businesses. The answer is simple: most people search online before buying anything. If your business isn’t easy to find on Google or social media, you’re missing out on potential customers.
Here’s why online strategies work well for small businesses:
Cost-effective: You don’t need a big budget to get started.
Targeted reach: You can focus on your local area and specific customer groups.
Builds trust: A good online presence shows professionalism and reliability.
24/7 visibility: Your business is open online even when your physical shop is closed.
For example, a local plumber can use online marketing to appear in search results when someone nearby needs emergency repairs. This kind of visibility can turn a one-time visitor into a loyal customer.
Effective Small Business Online Strategies You Can Use Today
Let’s dive into some easy-to-implement strategies that will help your business stand out online.
1. Create a Google My Business Profile
This is a must for any local business. Google My Business (GMB) lets you show up in local search results and Google Maps. It’s free and simple to set up.
Add your business name, address, phone number, and opening hours.
Upload photos of your work, your team, and your shop.
Encourage happy customers to leave reviews.
Keep your information up to date.
A well-maintained GMB profile can increase your chances of appearing in the “local pack” - the top three local results on Google.
2. Build a Simple Website
You don’t need a fancy website to get started. A clean, easy-to-navigate site with your contact details, services, and customer testimonials is enough.
Use clear headlines and short paragraphs.
Add a call-to-action like “Call us today” or “Get a free quote”.
Make sure your site works well on mobile phones.
Include your location and service areas.
3. Use Social Media to Connect Locally
Platforms like Facebook and Instagram are great for reaching local customers. Share photos of your work, special offers, and community events.
Post regularly but keep it relevant.
Respond quickly to messages and comments.
Join local groups and participate in conversations.
Use local hashtags to increase visibility.
4. Invest in Local SEO
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) helps your website rank higher in search results. Focus on local SEO by including your town or city name in your website content and meta descriptions.
Use keywords like “builder in [your town]” or “local electrician near me”.
Create content that answers common questions your customers have.
Get listed in local directories and trade association websites.
5. Try Paid Advertising
If you have a small budget, consider Google Ads or Facebook Ads targeted at your local area. You can set daily limits and only pay when someone clicks your ad.
Start with a small budget to test what works.
Use clear, simple messages.
Target your ads by location, age, and interests.
These strategies form the foundation of successful small business marketing online. For more detailed tips and examples, check out small business marketing online.
What is the 70 20 10 Rule in Digital Marketing?
The 70 20 10 rule is a simple way to plan your online marketing content. It helps you balance what you share to keep your audience interested and engaged.
70% Value Content: Share helpful, informative posts that solve problems or answer questions. For example, a builder might post tips on home maintenance.
20% Personal Content: Show the human side of your business. Share behind-the-scenes photos or stories about your team.
10% Promotional Content: This is where you promote your services, special offers, or new products.
Using this rule keeps your marketing fresh and avoids overwhelming your audience with sales messages. It also builds trust and encourages people to follow and recommend your business.
How to Apply the 70 20 10 Rule
Plan your social media posts and blog articles around this ratio.
Use a content calendar to stay organised.
Monitor what type of content gets the most engagement and adjust accordingly.
This approach works well for tradespeople and local businesses because it balances professionalism with personality.
Tips for Getting More Customer Reviews Online
Reviews are powerful. They build trust and improve your local search rankings. Here’s how to get more positive reviews:
Ask customers politely after a job is done.
Make it easy by sending a direct link to your Google My Business review page.
Respond to all reviews, even the negative ones, in a professional way.
Offer excellent service to encourage natural positive feedback.
Remember, reviews are like word-of-mouth recommendations but online. They can help you stand out from competitors.
Keep Your Online Presence Consistent and Updated
Consistency is key. Make sure your business name, address, and phone number are the same everywhere online. This helps Google trust your business information.
Regularly update your website and social media.
Post new photos and news about your business.
Check your Google My Business profile for accuracy.
Remove outdated information quickly.
Staying active online shows customers you’re reliable and ready to serve them.
Taking the Next Step with Online Marketing
Starting with these small business online strategies can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Pick one or two ideas and build from there. The important thing is to be visible where your customers are looking.
If you want to learn more about how to make your Google presence shine and attract more local customers, visit small business marketing online. There, you’ll find plenty of advice tailored for builders, tradesmen, and local businesses.
By investing time in your online marketing, you’re setting your business up for long-term success. Remember, every small step counts and can lead to bigger opportunities.
I hope these tips inspire you to take action and grow your business online. With the right strategies, you can reach more customers and build a strong local reputation. Keep it simple, stay consistent, and watch your business thrive!
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