Small businesses have either (1) a limited marketing budget or (2) no money designated for marketing. This philosophy tends to be expected. But here is the problem that becomes apparent immediately: How can your small business compete with big companies that have many marketing dollars to spend? This problem puts a majority of small companies in a tough pickle.
Never fear, though, because we have a solution! Here at PersistSEO, we have developed some key areas where small businesses should focus their limited advertising budget (Even if your marketing budget is $0!). In the following paragraphs, we will explore what you should focus on as a small business with your advertising. Join us!
Start with Facebook
What we are going to begin focusing on are the FREE ways that you can grow your small business. I am sure you love that idea because, let’s face it, everyone loves free! So, of course, let’s start with a brief discussion on social media and small businesses – specifically Facebook.
Whether you believe it or not, every small business should operate at least a Facebook account. Many people utilize Facebook for various needs, so it makes sense to include your business there as well. Because a large percentage of the adult population in America has a Facebook account, it might mean that you would want to spend some of your advertising dollars on Facebook ads (I know I said above we are going to begin talking about free ways to advertise, but I just had to tell you about Facebook ads! Forgive me!). But at the minimum, set up a Facebook business account for your small company so you can at least start reaching people through a social media platform.
Have A Good Website Built (And Keep It Up To Date)
Most people in 2022 will locate your business from a Google search. This means that your website could be your potential customer’s first impression. This is why having a website with updated material is invaluable. I am not saying that you have a glamorous and super complex website, but rather an up-to-date website with your hours, location, reviews, etc.
Many small businesses think they don’t have time to deal with advertising, but the truth is that many potential customers will probably be lost due to a poor online first impression. So it is necessary to develop a website that strongly promotes your brand. Please do not think that it does not matter!
Set Up A Google Business Profile
Let’s talk about what small businesses can do to advertise for free, again! In another recent post, we discussed the importance of each company ramping up their Google Business Reviews. One of the reasons we brought this up is because so many potential customers check reviews before deciding what service they will select. This fact shows the importance of every company having its own Google Business Profile. And the truth is that it is easy to set up a Google Business Profile. Do not miss out on free advertising by not setting up your Google Business account.
Pay Per Click – Google Ads
Because Google is the most used search engine on the Internet, it makes sense to use Google Ads. While using Google Ads is not an easy task, getting clicks and leads is something that will help your small business grow. Pay Per Click (PPC) Advertising can give your company a leg up on the competition, so it would be worth allocating some advertising funds to this avenue.
SEO: Making the Most of Your Advertising Dollars
SEO (Search engine optimization) is worth spending some advertising dollars on (Even if you own a small business). Here’s why: Does your company appear on the first page of Google when someone searches using your company’s keywords? If not, you need the help of SEO specialists! An SEO specialist can help optimize your content to rank higher on the Google Search Engine. Since so many people use Google, SEO will undoubtedly help you generate more revenue for your business.
Concluding Thoughts
Small businesses should do what they can with their limited advertising dollars to reach their target market. Some things can be done that cost you little to nothing (Facebook, Google Business Profile), but there are other things that you might need to spend some of your advertising budgets on (Website design, Google Ads, SEO Management). No matter where your company is today, know that you can start anew with a wiser small business advertising plan. If you ever need help, please know that PersistSEO offers a free consultation to every new prospect. Reach out to us today!