3 Local Marketing Tips to Make Your Local Business Stand Out (No Budget Needed)

Running a local business is no joke. It requires guts, perseverance, patience, and constant creativity to keep the customers you have and grow your business. As an entrepreneur myself, I understand the challenges of standing out. Budget is limited, resources are minimal (sometimes it’s just you), and time is not readily available.

Some businesses go the heavy advertising route using guerrilla marketing to get their brand to stand out, or use steep promotions to get customers in the door. Standing out, however, doesn’t need to be flashy or expensive. The most effective brand marketing is the person-first approach, which is why I’m sharing three tips to help you do more without breaking the bank.

Tip #1 Partner with other local businesses

Being a local small business means there will inevitably be other businesses in the community trying to reach the same customers you are. This is an opportunity to extend your reach and collaborate.

There are two things that come to mind. The first one is to tag each other on social posts. Your posts don’t need to be complex or require a lot of equipment. An iPhone and a conversation, and you’re good to go. It takes time and consistency to build a presence on social media, but all you need to start is a social buddy. The second is to co-host an event with another business to bring your community together.

You can also offer a joint promotion that guests can use for weeks after. Open-minded business owners see the value in growing together, and will often jump at the opportunity to offer a promotion that shows more value.

Tip #2 Keep it real on social media

You don’t need to go viral to get noticed. Share why you started your business and what keeps you going. Show glimpses of your business behind-the-scenes, to give the “non-polished” side of you and your team, and content that shows the public why you opened up your business. It’s about making a connection. When you show up authentically, people feel it.

Tip #3 Create unique experiences

The key to building your brand is building a connection. You don’t want your business to feel like another humanless transaction with those who interact with you. There are a few simple steps you can take to make each customer feel special, and it all revolves around creating unique experiences.

• Handwritten notes from owners or team members showing genuine appreciation for their business.

• Name recognition where staff remember returning customers and their preferences.

• Custom items on the menu or stock items based on individual customer needs.

• Direct access to managers or founders to show transparency and care in issues that may occur for quick, personable solutions.

• Personal follow-ups that reference specific details from previous interactions.

Put simply, standing out doesn’t have to cost a ton of money or take up all your time. Sometimes, the smallest efforts can make the biggest impact. For more tips or to be featured in my podcast, EveryDayExpert Insights, don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly at sacham@ulumousllc.com.