If you run a small business, chances are most of your customers live or work nearby. That’s where...
Who doesn't love a top 10 list? Put yourself behind the Late Night desk and host the digital marketing top 10.
In today’s competitive landscape, small businesses can’t afford to ignore digital marketing. With the right strategies, even the smallest companies can attract customers, build brand awareness, and compete with larger players. Here are some key digital marketing strategies every small business should be using:
1. Build a Mobile-Friendly Website
Your website is often the first impression. Make sure it loads quickly, looks great on mobile devices, and clearly communicates who you are and what you offer. The good news is most web development software will automatically scale your site to mobile. The key is to get the design to work for mobile and desktop.
2. Invest in Local SEO
Local search engine optimization helps your business show up when people nearby search for your services. Claim your Google Business Profile, use local keywords, and ask for customer reviews. Google is usually the first way to make an impression on potential customer so having accurate and inviting information is key.
3. Create Quality Content
Content marketing builds trust and improves SEO. Start a blog, share helpful tips, answer common questions, and position your brand as a resource. It's simple: people will engage with quality content.
4. Leverage Social Media
Pick platforms where your customers spend time (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) and post consistently. Share updates, behind-the-scenes content, and promotions. Youtube is also a great way to reach customers especially if you are a DIY-type of business.
5. Use Email Marketing
Email is still one of the highest ROI channels. Build a list and send newsletters, special offers, and helpful content to stay top of mind.
6. Run Paid Ads
Use Google Ads or Facebook/Instagram Ads to reach new customers quickly. Start small, target specific audiences, and track performance. After you run your first set of ads, review the data and adjust your next campaign to be even more cost efficient.
7. Encourage Online Reviews
Let your customers make the sales pitch! Positive reviews help build credibility and influence buying decisions.
8. Create Video Content
Video is powerful. It doesn’t have to be fancy—use your phone to record product demos, customer testimonials, or team introductions. Letting your customers see your product or service in action goes a long way in their buying journey.
9. Retarget Website Visitors
Many visitors won’t convert on their first visit. Retargeting ads can bring them back and nudge them to take action. Putting how-to guides behind a lead magnet will allow you to stay in touch and convert them to a customer.
10. Track and Improve
Use tools like Google Analytics, Hotjar, and Meta Ads Manager to see what’s working—and adjust your strategy accordingly. The beauty of digital marketing is everything can be updated to best find your customers. A print ad provides very little analytics and can be hard to build on while a digital campaign can be constantly evolving.
Final Thought: You don’t need a massive budget to market your business online. Start with a few of these strategies, be consistent, and watch your digital presence grow.
