Tip 186) Guest Post: Marketing tips for small businesses

Guest post from Paul Kurnyta from The Local Marketing Business. Thanks Paul! 
​
I could fill a small book with what I've learnt about marketing a local business over the last 10 years.

However, I've been given the target of an easily-digestible 400 words!

So, here are my top tips.

Look good online
Make sure your online profiles and website copy are complete, accurate and updated regularly. On your website, make sure the copy is accurate, relevant and gives the visitor something to consider.

​You are in business to solve problems, so make sure your online presence convinces people this is the case. Make sure your directory profiles are 100% complete, with all the information complete.
So much more I could write on this!

You don't have to be everywhere!
I hear a lot of advice from 'people' that you need - must - be on all the relevant social channels.
Rubbish. Be on as many as you can effectively manage and don't feel you need to be on all of them. Keeping your social channels interesting and engaging is hard enough... especially if you struggle to find things to regularly post about.

Remember, it's quality over quantity. I'd rather read something interesting once a week than 'filler posts' seven days a week - meaning don't post for the sake of it, the reader will stay far more engaged over the long term if you don't bore them with stuff posted for the sake of posting.

Register a free profile in 10-15 top UK directories
There are many search directories that Google and other search engines consider to be authoritative. In other words, if you have a listing on these sites, it's a tick in the box by Google and the search engines. All of these sites offer a free listing option so pick the top 10 or 15 directories and complete a free listing.

This will help from an SEO perspective – I can provide the list to anyone interested.

Consistency
Whatever you choose to do, do it consistently. You’ll need to stick to your marketing efforts for months ... years!

So make it easy to manage... or get some help!

Let people into your business
People buy from people – sometimes it’s necessary to be formal, but don’t let this stop you putting your own unique touch on things. People want to know what you’re like to work with... show them.

Look after your clients first
It’s easier to sell to existing clients or customers than to prospects! 

Good luck! 

Paul 
The Local Marketing Business 

​I’ll help bring clarity and structure to your marketing and help you create a manageable strategy that works for you. Whether you just need a bit of advice, some light support, or you need someone to take complete control of your marketing, I have an option to suit your business.