In the dynamic world of digital marketing, small businesses need strategies that truly stand out. We’ve gathered insights from Founders and Digital Marketers, sharing their single most effective tactics. From optimizing SEO for visibility to integrating postcards with digital strategy, discover the top eight standout digital marketing tactics that have proven successful.
- Optimize SEO for Visibility
- Engage in Hyper-Local SEO
- Utilize Targeted Facebook Ads
- Create Authentic Video Content
- Implement Strategic Link-Building
- Combine Local SEO with Targeted Ads
- Turn Customers Into Brand Ambassadors
- Integrate Postcards with Digital Strategy
Optimize SEO for Visibility
You may have your small business up and running, but now you want the world to know about it, right? That’s where SEO swoops in! By optimizing your website and content, you’re basically giving Google a treasure map to find you among the sea of websites out there. It’s like planting a little flag on the internet, saying, “Hey, look at me—I’ve got something neat to offer!”
Plus, when your site pops up higher in search results, it’s like rolling out the red carpet for potential customers, making it easier for them to find you without having to dig through pages and pages of search results. So, if you want to be the belle of the digital ball, SEO is your invitation!
Engage in Hyper-Local SEO
One standout tactic that’s been particularly effective in my digital marketing efforts for small businesses, especially in highly specialized niches such as roofing, involves leveraging local SEO and detailed community engagement. A key strategy has been optimizing business listings and content for hyper-local keywords, which often have lower competition yet yield highly targeted traffic. For example, by tailoring webpage and blog content to include region-specific terms and addressing local pain points, we were able to significantly enhance online visibility for a local roofing company.
I further amplified this tactic by engaging directly with local online communities, such as town Facebook groups or forums, to provide genuine assistance and advice. This not only positioned the business as a local authority but also drove direct referrals. Combining this approach with engaging, localized content on their social media platforms and encouraging customer reviews on localized platforms led to a tangible increase in organic traffic and, more importantly, conversions. It’s crucial to not just appear in search results but to actively contribute value to the community you’re targeting.
The impact of these efforts was measurable and profound. Within a few months, the roofing company experienced a 40% increase in organic search traffic, which translated directly into increased booking inquiries. This case underscores the importance of not just focusing on broad digital marketing practices but honing in on the specific geography of your target market and engaging in a way that feels personal and locally relevant.
Gary Gilkison, Principal Analyst, Riverbase Cloud
Utilize Targeted Facebook Ads
One digital marketing tactic that’s worked wonders for small businesses? Targeted Facebook ads. They let you reach very specific audiences based on demographics, interests, behaviors. You can really zero in on your ideal customer.
Plus, the ads are affordable. Even on a small budget, you can make a big impact. I’ve seen small businesses double, even triple, their leads and sales—all thanks to well-crafted Facebook ads. It’s a tactic every small business should explore.
Casey Jones, Founder and Head of Marketing, CJ&CO
Create Authentic Video Content
In my role leading First Pier, a comprehensive approach to e-commerce growth, one digital marketing tactic that stood out significantly was the innovative use of video content, particularly with our client, Peel. In an era where consumers are bombarded with polished ads, we found that raw, authentic reels of products significantly boosted customer engagement. By capturing the essence of the product in a manner that felt genuine and unscripted, we tapped into the consumer’s desire for authenticity. This not only increased viewer engagement but also enhanced the perception of the brand as relatable and trustworthy.
Another strategy that bore fruit was the implementation of targeted flash sales through email marketing, inspired by the fashion jewelry brand Tarinika. We noticed that creating urgency and exclusivity around a product could dramatically spike interest and conversions. By sending out personalized, time-sensitive offers to our email list, we fostered a sense of immediacy that encouraged immediate action. It’s crucial to balance the frequency of these sales to maintain the excitement without overwhelming your audience.
Moreover, diving into content marketing with a focus on providing valuable information to the audience immensely contributed to our success, as seen with Beardbrand’s approach. By curating informative articles and tutorials, we were able to establish our clients as authorities in their niche, significantly improving engagement and fostering a loyal community. This strategy not only draws in a targeted audience but also aids in customer retention by continuously providing value beyond the initial purchase, reinforcing the brand’s relevance and expertise in the market.
Steve Pogson, Founder, First Pier
Implement Strategic Link-Building
One standout tactic I’ve successfully used is quality link-building. Essentially, it involves strategically acquiring links from reputable websites back to your own. It has helped me boost my site’s authority and visibility in search engine results.
By focusing on creating valuable, relevant content and creating genuine relationships with other websites, I’ve been able to attract high-quality inbound links. This has helped me boost my online presence and drive organic traffic.
Although it’s a meticulous process, its long-term benefits when it comes to SEO and brand credibility still make it a worthwhile investment. This applies to any business or individual who wants to stand out in the digital landscape.
Johannes Larsson, Founder and CEO, Financer.com
Combine Local SEO with Targeted Ads
Local SEO optimization as the digital marketing strategy I have been using for a small business is how I’ve seen success. As for the client in the home services industry, we conducted our promotion campaign by working on their Google My Business profile, local directory listings, and on-page SEO elements. This strategy became the key factor behind a 40% increase in the website’s traffic, raised from the area’s customers.
Besides, a geo-targeted marketing strategy through platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads has been a strategy that has assisted the business in attracting more viable prospects. Consequently, the coordination of local search engine optimization and targeted advertising brought about a strong enough approach for the small business, its online presence, and lead generation.
Kartik Ahuja, Digital Marketer, kartikahuja.com
Turn Customers Into Brand Ambassadors
In my extensive experience with digital marketing, leveraging innovative and user-centric platforms for client engagement has proven to be a standout tactic. A prime example was the creation and deployment of the Bragging Rights app for a car dealership. This mobile application was designed to capture the excitement of new car owners by allowing them to share photos and experiences directly with their networks, effectively turning customers into brand ambassadors.
We focused on the moment of joy when customers purchase a car, recognizing it as a potent marketing opportunity. The app was integrated with features that incentivize users to share their experiences online, offering discounts and incentives for referrals. This tactic not only amplified our client’s digital presence but also significantly increased referral traffic and sales. Following the launch of the Bragging Rights app, the dealership saw a 20% increase in customer engagement online and a 15% increase in referral sales within the first quarter.
The key to this strategy’s success was its focus on genuine customer satisfaction and engagement. By providing a platform for customers to share their excitement, we tapped into a powerful form of word-of-mouth marketing that felt authentic and personal. Furthermore, by incentivizing the sharing process, we managed to turn satisfied customers into active promoters of the brand, demonstrating how a creative approach to digital marketing can yield substantial results. This experience underlines the importance of understanding and leveraging customer behavior in digital marketing initiatives.
Brian Kratt, Founder and CEO, Plumb Development, Inc
Integrate Postcards with Digital Strategy
In my experience with OneStop Northwest LLC, we’ve seen substantial success by focusing on the integration of custom-designed postcards for small businesses within their localized marketing strategies. This tactic proved particularly effective when a startup’s budget is tight, yet they aim for significant impact within their community. For example, a local cafe we worked with decided to send out postcards announcing their grand opening, including a special offer. The response rate exceeded expectations, drawing a sizable crowd on opening day and establishing a strong initial customer base.
The secret to making this work lies in crafting a clear, compelling message combined with an eye-catching design that resonates with the target audience. We ensured that the postcards reflected the cafe’s brand identity and communicated the unique value they brought to the local market. By including a measurable call to action, such as presenting the postcard for a free coffee, we were able to track the campaign’s effectiveness directly.
This approach not only allowed the business to stand out in a crowded marketplace but also created a personal touch that digital advertising often lacks. It’s a testament to how traditional marketing methods, like print materials, can still hold significant value when integrated thoughtfully within a broader digital marketing strategy. The key is to understand your audience deeply and to tailor your messaging in a manner that connects with them on a personal level, fostering a sense of community engagement from the outset.
Dylan Cleppe, Co-Founder and CEO, OneStop Northwest LLC
