When I first started in business, I thought marketing was as simple as ticking a few boxes—run a few ads, post on social media, and just wait for the customers to come rolling in. But that’s not how it works. Marketing is constantly evolving, and if your strategies are the same as they were last year, it’s no wonder things feel stuck.
After learning the hard way, I realised it wasn’t about doing more, it was about doing things that actually worked. If your small business marketing feels flat, here are 5 no-BS moves that will change that.
1. Watch Your Competitors (And Then Outdo Them)
Competitors are the cheat code for seeing what works in your industry. They’re out there testing strategies, spending budgets, and running campaigns. But you’re not here to copy them—that’s not how you get ahead.
Take a look at what they’re doing and improve it. Maybe their Facebook ads are hitting, but how can you make yours sharper, more targeted, and more relevant? What works for them might spark a better idea for you. This isn’t about being a follower. It’s about adapting what works and making it fit your brand.
2. Let Your Customers Do the Talking
People trust reviews more than they trust your ads. It’s as simple as that. So, after every sale, ask your customers for feedback. You need those glowing testimonials, and once you’ve got them, you’d better use them.
Post them on your website, share them across social media, and weave them into your email campaigns. Your customers’ words will sell for you better than any ad could.
I had a client who wasn’t showcasing their reviews—just letting them sit idle on a side page of their site. After moving them front and centre, their trust factor shot up, and so did their sales.
3. Keep Social Media Fresh (And Don’t Be Boring)
If your social media is as dead as last year’s news, that’s exactly how your customers are seeing you. Social media is your always-on presence, so don’t let it go dark.
You don’t need to post every single day. But you do need to post consistently. Share product updates, behind-the-scenes snapshots, or real-time stories about your business. Show people that your brand is alive and moving.
Being consistent on social media keeps you top of mind. And if you’re not in front of your audience, someone else is.
4. Stop Waiting for Customers—Go Where They Are
Digital marketing is critical, but face-to-face interaction makes an impact that screens just can’t replicate. When was the last time you went out to meet your audience in person?
Local markets, community events, pop-ups—go to where your customers are already hanging out. Set up a booth, shake some hands, tell your story. Even a five-minute conversation can turn into a long-term customer. When people meet you in person, they’re more likely to remember you and trust your brand when they’re ready to buy.
The online world might be noisy, but a real connection cuts through that clutter every time.
5. Be the Expert Everyone Turns To
Customers don’t just buy products; they buy from people and businesses they trust. The more they see you as the expert in your field, the easier it becomes to earn that trust.
Start sharing your knowledge. Give talks at local events. Offer advice in industry groups. Collaborate with other businesses. The more visible you are, the more your audience will rely on your expertise when they need to make a decision.
And don’t overlook the local press. Journalists are always looking for industry experts. Being quoted in articles, podcasts, or interviews doesn’t just boost your credibility—it gives you free exposure.
Stop Playing Small
If you’re not willing to adapt, your competitors will happily leave you in the dust.
Take these 5 strategies, get them working for you, and watch your business grow.
Quick Recap:
Competitors can show you what works, but always adapt it to make it better for your business.
Leverage testimonials—let your customers’ words sell for you.
Consistency on social media is key. Show that your business is alive and thriving.
Get out there—meet your audience face-to-face, and build real-world connections.
Position yourself as the expert in your field. Trust is your most valuable asset.
Chat soon Thomas
P.S. Want to fast-track your marketing?
Get in touch with us today. I’ll personally walk through your current marketing strategy, show you exactly what’s working (and what’s not), and craft a plan that’ll actually get you results—no pressure.
Sound good? Here’s the link: https://www.thresults.com/contact-us
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