ways to market local small business videos
Running a small business is no small task—and when it comes to marketing, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the options. The good news? You don’t need a huge budget to make a big impact in your local community.
Whether you’re running a bakery, repair shop, boutique, salon, or any other small business, here are proven and practical ways to get your name out there and attract loyal local customers.
1. Get Active on Google Business Profile
If you do only one thing—do this.
Claim and fully set up your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business). It helps you appear in local searches and on Google Maps when people are looking for businesses like yours.
✅ Add photos
✅ List hours and services
✅ Encourage reviews
✅ Keep it updated
Local search visibility is one of the most valuable tools for small business marketing—and it’s completely free.
2. Partner with Other Local Businesses
Team up with neighboring shops, restaurants, or service providers for:
- Joint promotions (e.g., “Buy from us, get 10% off next door”)
- Shared events or sidewalk sales
- Social media shoutouts
Cross-promotion helps you tap into each other’s customer base while strengthening the local business community.
3. Use Social Media—Smartly
You don’t have to be on every platform, but choose 1–2 that your customers actually use (often Facebook and Instagram for local businesses).
Post regularly and include:
- Behind-the-scenes photos
- Customer testimonials
- Product or service highlights
- Promotions and special events
- Local news and shoutouts
Also: Don’t just post—engage. Comment on local posts, reply to messages, and build relationships with your online followers.
4. Host or Sponsor Community Events
People love businesses that give back. Get involved by:
- Hosting a small event (pop-up, demo, or tasting)
- Sponsoring a local school fundraiser, youth team, or community clean-up
- Setting up a booth at a farmer’s market or town festival
It puts your brand in front of locals, builds goodwill, and shows you care about your community.
5. Offer Loyalty Programs or Referral Discounts
Rewarding your existing customers can bring in new ones too.
Ideas:
- Punch cards or digital rewards for repeat visits
- Referral bonuses like “Give $5, Get $5” when customers bring a friend
- Birthday or anniversary specials
Loyalty programs build habits—and habits build long-term customers.
6. Get Local Media Coverage
Local newspapers, radio stations, and community blogs are always looking for stories. Reach out with a quick pitch about:
- A new product or service launch
- A milestone (e.g., “10 years in business”)
- Your personal story or community involvement
Tip: Make it easy by offering a great photo and a few ready-to-use quotes.
7. Encourage and Promote Customer Reviews
Word of mouth is still powerful—especially online.
Ask happy customers to leave reviews on:
- Yelp
- Niche directories (TripAdvisor, Houzz, etc.)
Display your best reviews on your website, in your store, and on social media.
8. Build an Email List
Email is one of the highest-return marketing tools—when done right.
Offer a small incentive (like a discount or exclusive content) in exchange for email signups. Then send:
- Updates
- Promotions
- Event invitations
- Helpful tips
Aim for consistency over frequency—monthly newsletters are a great place to start.
9. Use Simple Print Materials
Yes, print is still alive and well—especially in local marketing.
Create:
- Flyers or postcards for local bulletin boards
- Coupons in local mailers
- Branded business cards or stickers
Leave them in places your target customers go: cafés, salons, gyms, schools, libraries, etc.
10. Be a Human, Not Just a Business
People support businesses they connect with.
Share your story. Introduce your staff. Celebrate small wins. Support local causes. Be real, be present, and be visible in your town or neighborhood.
When people feel like they know you, they’ll choose you over big-box stores every time.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to do everything at once—but doing a few things consistently can make a huge difference.
Start with what fits your time and budget, focus on building relationships in your community, and keep showing up. Marketing isn’t about being everywhere—it’s about being where it matters most.