Small business marketing ideas that cost nothing
Practical ideas you can try this week, and a generator for posts tailored to your business.
The best marketing ideas are the ones you'll actually do. These are free or close to it, and work for shops, trades, services and online businesses alike.
Pick two, try them for a month, and keep the one that works.
Generate post ideas for your business
Free, no account needed. Nothing you type leaves your browser unless you choose to continue.
- TeachShare one what you do tip most people don't know.
- TeachAnswer the question customers ask you most about what you do.
- TeachA quick myth vs fact about what you do.
- TeachThree mistakes to avoid with what you do.
- TeachA beginner's checklist for what you do.
- ShowBehind the scenes: a photo or short video of your day.
- ShowBefore and after of a recent product.
- ShowIntroduce someone on the team (or yourself) with a fun fact.
- ShowShow how a product is made or done, step by step.
- ShowYour workspace, tools or setup, and why you chose them.
- ProveShare a thank-you or kind words from customers (with permission).
- ProveA small win or milestone this month.
- ProveTell the story of a problem you solved for one of your customers.
- PromoteSpotlight one product and who it's perfect for.
- PromoteAnnounce what's new or coming soon.
- PromoteA limited offer or event, with a clear date and how to join.
- EngagePoll: ask customers to choose between two options for your next product.
- EngageAsk: what's your favourite thing about what you do?
- EngageFill in the blank: "The best what you do advice I ever got was ___".
- EngageShare a question you've been asked and invite others to add their answers.
Online ideas
Quick wins online:
- A free business Page with a clear tagline and photos
- A weekly tip post in your area of expertise
- Before-and-after photos
- A poll asking customers to choose your next product or special
- Answer three questions a week in Hubs for your industry
- A short video tour of your workspace
Community ideas
Being part of your community builds trust:
- Sponsor or help at a local event and post about it
- Partner with a complementary business for a joint offer
- Run a free workshop or demo
- Start a Hub around your craft and help beginners
Customer ideas
Your customers are your best marketers:
- Ask happy customers to share their experience
- Thank customers publicly (with permission)
- A simple referral offer
- Follow up after every job with a useful tip
Frequently asked questions
What's the cheapest way to market a small business?
A complete free Page, regular helpful posts, and answering questions where your customers are. All free.
How do I stand out?
Show the people and the work behind the business. Real beats polished.
How many ideas should I try at once?
Two. Give each a month before judging it.
Related guides and tools
- Grow your business for freeHow to promote your business online (for free)A simple weekly routine, plus a generator for post ideas so you never stare at a blank box.
- Grow your business for freeFree business advertising that keeps workingSet up a free business Page in minutes, then reach people who care about what you do through posts, Hubs and your network.
- Free toolsFree social media content calendarChoose your type of account and how often you post. Get a four-week plan with an idea for every post.
- Free toolsFree hashtag generatorType a topic or paste your post. Get focused hashtags, plus what's trending on Zertle now.
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