Running a small or local business? You know how important it is to stand out in your community and attract nearby customers. But with so many marketing options out there, where do you even begin? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Here are practical tips to help your local business grow its presence and bring in more customers.
1. Claim and optimise your Google My Business profile
First things first—if you don’t have a Google My Business (GMB) profile, set one up now. This free tool puts your business on the map (literally) and makes it easier for customers to find you online.
Make sure to:
- Add accurate contact information and business hours
- Upload high-quality photos of your location, products, or services
- Collect and respond to customer reviews
- Post regular updates and promotions
2. Focus on local SEO
Search engine optimisation (SEO) isn’t just for big companies. Local SEO helps your business show up in search results when people nearby are looking for your products or services.
Tips to improve your local SEO include:
- Use location-specific keywords (e.g., "best coffee shop in [your town]")
- Create location pages if you have multiple locations
- Add your business to local directories like Yelp and Bing Places
3. Engage on social media
Social media isn’t just for viral videos and memes (though those help!). Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are great for connecting with your local audience.
Try:
- Posting community-focused content
- Showcasing your team, products, and behind-the-scenes moments
- Using local hashtags and tagging your location
- Engaging with local events or collaborating with nearby businesses
4. Leverage local partnerships
Team up with other local businesses for joint promotions or events. Cross-promotions can introduce you to new audiences and strengthen community ties.
For example:
- Offer package deals with neighbouring businesses
- Host a local market or pop-up event
- Sponsor local sports teams or community initiatives
5. Run targeted local ads
Online advertising doesn’t have to break the bank. Platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads let you target people based on their location, interests, and demographics.
Consider:
- Promoting special offers to local customers
- Using geotargeting to reach people near your store
- Boosting posts about upcoming events or sales
6. Encourage and showcase customer reviews
Word-of-mouth is powerful, especially for local businesses. Encourage happy customers to leave reviews on Google, Facebook, and Yelp.
Then:
- Highlight positive reviews on your website and social media
- Respond promptly to all reviews (yes, even the not-so-great ones)
- Offer incentives for customers who leave honest feedback
7. Create valuable local content
Content marketing isn’t just for global brands. By creating content tailored to your local audience, you can improve your visibility and build trust.
Ideas include:
- Writing blog posts about local events, news, or tips
- Creating video tours of your shop or interviews with local figures
- Sharing stories about your involvement in the community
8. Host and participate in community events
Nothing beats face-to-face connections. Hosting events or participating in local fairs and festivals can boost your visibility and foster relationships.
Try:
- Organising workshops, classes, or live demos
- Setting up a booth at local markets
- Participating in charity events or community clean-ups
9. Utilise email marketing
Email marketing is still one of the most effective ways to reach your audience.
Build a mailing list by:
- Offering discounts for sign-ups
- Sending regular newsletters with updates and promotions
- Personalising emails to cater to local interests and needs
10. Track your efforts and adjust
Marketing isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it task. Use tools like Google Analytics and social media insights to track what’s working and what’s not. Don’t be afraid to tweak your strategy based on the data.
Need help putting these tips into action?
At Wildfire Marketing & PR, we specialise in helping small and local businesses like yours grow and thrive. Whether you need help with local SEO, social media management, or crafting an effective ad strategy, we’ve got your back.
Book a free consultation today or grab a complimentary digital marketing audit. Let’s make your business the talk of the town!
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