SMALL BUSINESS TIP #18: 10 Tips for Marketing Your Business in Your Local Community

Marketing your business in your local community is a smart strategy that can yield incredible results. Whether you’re a brick-and-mortar store, a service provider, or an online business, tapping into your local market can help you build trust, boost visibility, and increase sales.

In fact, major companies like Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, and REI are known for their community-oriented marketing efforts.

Starbucks hosts events, supports local charities, and customizes its stores to reflect the local culture and history. Chick-fil-A is known for supporting schools through “Spirit Nights” and engaging with the community on social media. REI organizes local outdoor events, workshops, and classes, and its stores often serve as a hub for local outdoor enthusiasts.

10 Ways to Market Your Business in Your Local Community

Here are 10 actionable tips to effectively market your business in your local community. Note that there are no set rules, giving you plenty of flexibility and room for creativity as you build your marketing plan.

① Create a “Google My Business” Profile

Kickstart your local marketing efforts by setting up a Google My Business profile. This free tool allows you to showcase your business on Google Maps and in local search results. Make sure to include accurate information about your services, contact details, and operating hours. Encourage happy customers to leave reviews to build credibility.

With 93% of customers using Google Maps to search for a business and 87% using Google to decide on a business, the benefits are clear. If you aren’t visible on Google Maps, you will be missing out on the vast majority of potential local customers.

② Optimize Your Website for Local SEO

Ensure your website is optimized for local search engine optimization (SEO). Use relevant keywords with your location and create high-quality, informative content that speaks to your local audience. Include your physical address and phone number on every page to make it easy for potential customers to reach you.

If you don’t know where to start with SEO, check out these 5 SEO tips for small business websites. You can also utilize link building services to drive organic traffic to your website.

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③ Leverage Social Media Platforms

Social media platforms like Meta (Facebook & Instagram), Linkedin and X are great tools to market your business. One survey found that a positive experience with a business on social media makes 78% of consumers more willing to purchase from them and 77% to choose them over a competitor.

You can cultivate positive experiences by connecting with your local community. This may include sharing local events, news, and stories, posting about deals and promotions, or even highlighting your employees.

It’s also key to engage with your audience. You can do this by responding promptly to comments and messages to build a loyal following. If you receive a positive comment or review, thank the customer and invite them back to your business! Don’t forget to include links to your website in your social profiles.

④ Attend Local Networking Events

Networking is essential for building relationships within your community. Attend local business events, Chamber of Commerce meetings, and industry-specific gatherings. These events provide opportunities to meet potential customers and partners. They will help you identify local events, sponsorships, potential business collaborations, and advertising opportunities.

⑤ Collaborate With Local Influencers

Identify local influencers or bloggers who align with your business. Use relevant hashtags, keywords, and location filters to narrow your search, then reach out to them for collaboration opportunities.

Influencers can help you promote your products or services to a wider local audience. Have them include your website link when they mention your business.

⑥ Run Targeted Local Ads

Invest in paid advertising campaigns that target your local audience. Platforms like Meta Ads and Google Ads offer precise targeting options. Create eye-catching ads with clear calls to action that lead to relevant pages on your website.

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⑦ Sponsor Local Events & Charities

Show your commitment to your community by sponsoring local events or charitable organizations. This not only helps a good cause, but also gets your business noticed. You can check for local events through websites like Eventbrite, your Chamber of Commerce, and community bulletin boards (often available at local libraries).

When sponsoring an event, you get to decide your level of sponsorship, your presence at the event, and what kind of promotional materials or swag you’d like to hand out. After all, nobody can turn down a branded squishy ball or coffee mug!

⑧ Offer Frequent Buyer Programs

You can encourage local purchases by offering repeat customer incentives, such as a punch card or loyalty program. Not only are these fun for customers, but they also provide a reason to choose your business over a competitor.  This strengthens your local customer base and fosters lasting connections within the community.

⑨ Collaborate With Other Local Businesses

Consider forming partnerships with complementary local businesses. For example, if you sell coffee, partner with a local bakery or bookstore. You can cross-promote each other’s services and share links on your websites.

Joint marketing efforts and shared resources can lead to cost savings for both businesses involved. Co-promotional campaigns, such as joint advertisements, email newsletters, or social media posts, can be more affordable than standalone marketing efforts.

These collaborations can also introduce your business to a new audience, gaining exposure to potential customers who may not have discovered your services otherwise.

①⓪ Get Involved in Community Activities

Engage with your community by participating in local activities or volunteering. Being an active member of your community helps you gain trust and visibility. Remember that word-of-mouth is completely free and one of the best ways to attract new customers!

If you participate in any local events, share your involvement on your website and social media profiles with a link to your local services page.

Final Thoughts

Marketing your business in your local community can significantly impact your success. Whether your business is thriving or you’re just starting out, these tips will help you gain new customers and achieve your goals.

Combining online strategies with real-world engagement will create a strong presence that resonates with your local audience. Embrace these tips, and watch your business thrive in your local community!

If you want to unlock the full potential of your business, contact us today!