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Small Business Marketing: Where to Start

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10 Simple Steps
Undoubtedly, one of the most commonly asked questions for business owners is: ‘Where should I start marketing my business?’ In a world of unending information, getting overwhelmed and veering off the path to success can be very easy. Let’s dive into our simple, step-by-step guide to what every small business should do.

Step 1: Understand Your Target Audience. Creating great marketing without knowing who you are speaking to is impossible. Define your ideal customer profile. Identify their needs, preferences, pain points, and demographics. This information will help you tailor your marketing efforts to effectively reach and engage with your target audience.
Understanding Your Audience
Step 2: Create a Plan. Outline your marketing objectives and timelines. Include online and offline marketing channels that align with your target audience’s preferences.

Step 3: Create a Professional Website. And, no, I don’t mean you should do it yourself! Your website is your online business card, sales team, and a direct reflection of what someone can expect when working with your organization. Ensure it’s user-friendly, visually appealing, and mobile-responsive. Include essential information about your products or services, contact details, and a clear call to action to encourage visitors to take the next step. SEO Optimize your website and content to rank higher in search engine results.

Step 4: Have a Solid Presence. Register your business on Google My Business and other relevant online directories. Ensure your business information (name, address, phone number, hours of operation) is accurate and up-to-date.

Step 5: Include Accurate Content. Create valuable and relevant content to attract and retain customers. This can include blog posts, articles, videos, infographics, and more. Share your expertise, address customer pain points, and showcase your products or services’ benefits.
Content Marketing
Step 6: Use Social Media Wisely. I say wisely because most business owners either invest too much time and energy into social and the others not enough. Choose the social media platforms where your target audience is most active and drive them to your website.

Step 7: Stay in Touch. Build an email list of interested prospects and customers. Send targeted and personalized email campaigns to nurture relationships, offer promotions, and inform your audience about new products or updates.
Email Marketing
Step 8: Be Active. Engage with your local community through events, sponsorships, and partnerships. Participate in local fairs, workshops, or collaborate with other businesses to increase your brand visibility.

Step 9: Get Reviews and Testimonials. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews and testimonials on your Google My Business. The importance of doing this cannot be understated.

Step 10: Stay Consistent. Most importantly, do not stop! Many business owners make the mistake of taking their foot off the gas or cutting their marketing investment for any number of reasons. Marketing is an ongoing process. Stay consistent with your efforts and continue to adapt your strategies based on feedback and results.

Remember that marketing is not a one-size-fits-all approach. You may need to experiment with different tactics and adjust your strategies based on your business’s specific needs and the response from your audience. Be patient, and over time, your efforts will yield positive results for your small business.

If you are ready to take your marketing to the next level or need an overhaul, contact the team at Free From Marketing. We love helping business owners create uncomplicated marketing plans that get results and help their businesses grow.