We know that small businesses like yours face a lot of hurdles—time, money, resources, and sometimes a lack of marketing know-how. But guess what? Marketing your business doesn’t have to drain your schedule or break the bank, and you definitely don’t need a whole marketing team to get started. With a few simple techniques and tips, you can kick off your marketing journey without the stress. Let’s dive in!
1. Use Hashtags on Instagram
When you post on Instagram, hashtags can be your best friend! They turn your topics and phrases into clickable links, making it easy for new folks to discover your content. For example, thousands of small businesses are sharing their stories globally using the hashtag #DeserveToBeFound. Craft a post that tells your story and why your business deserves to be seen, then tag it with #DeserveToBeFound so people everywhere can engage with your content. To help you get rolling, we’ve got some free posters you can download and share your story with!
2. Create Personalized Ads
Personalized ads target people based on their interests and behaviors, connecting you with those most likely to be interested in what you offer. This kind of advertising is a game-changer! It helps you reach potential customers who have shown interest in your products or discover new audiences that resemble your best clients. Log in to your Facebook business account and start crafting an ad that speaks directly to your audience.
3. Improve Your Brand Photography — With Just Your Phone
You don’t need an expensive camera or a professional photographer to capture high-quality images. Your smartphone is more than capable! Here are a few tips to ensure your photos look great:
- Stabilize Your Shots: Keep a steady hand or use a tripod to reduce motion blur.
- Skip the Screenshots: Always use original photos for better quality.
- Avoid Zooming In: Instead of zooming, move closer to your subject to capture the details.
- Light It Up: Good lighting is crucial! Natural light is ideal, so shoot near a window if possible, or ensure you have adequate artificial lighting.
4. Keep Video Ads Short
When it comes to video ads, shorter is better! Aim for videos that are under 15 seconds—this length is ideal for capturing attention on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Remember, many users watch videos without sound, so your message should be clear even without audio. Here are some tips for creating sound-off friendly videos:
- Use text and graphics to convey your message.
- Consider adding captions if there’s dialogue.
- Layer multiple photos and videos for visual storytelling.
5. Include Branding in Your Ad Creative
Branding is essential for recognition and recall. Make sure to incorporate your brand colors or logo in your ads. If you’re creating a video, introduce your brand within the first three seconds. People might not watch the entire video, so grab their attention right away!
6. Write Impactful Copy
Writing compelling copy can be tough, but here are some handy tips to get you started:
- Keep It Short and Sweet: Write clear and concise captions.
- Lead with Action: Start with a strong call to action or value offer.
- Engage Right Away: Use exciting words to grab attention from the get-go.
7. Remix Your Photos with Filters and Editing Tools
Sometimes, a little editing can make a big difference! You can use Instagram’s built-in editing tools to enhance your photos. Here’s how:
- Apply Filters: Filters can completely change your photo’s vibe. Choose one or two consistent filters to maintain a cohesive look for your brand.
- Use Editing Tools: Adjust brightness, contrast, and cropping to highlight your subject and remove distractions.
- Enhance Your Stories: Just like with photo posts, you can add filters and customize fonts and colors in your Instagram Stories.
Get Creative!
Remember, marketing your small business doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With these tips, you can effectively promote your brand without spending a fortune or sacrificing too much time. So get out there, share your story, and make your business shine!