Small Business Marketing Basics
If you’re just starting to build your small biz or feel overwhelmed by too many decisions and have no clear place to start, simplicity is your best friend.
Start with these small business marketing basics to build a solid foundation for your company:
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Logo
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Brand Identity
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Website with SEO basics
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Professional Email Address
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Google Business Profile
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Social Media Profiles
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Keep reading for a quick overview of each of these small business marketing fundamentals below!
Fundamental Marketing Elements for Small Business Success
Logo
Your logo is your brand’s first handshake—the visual cue that helps people recognize you immediately. A memorable logo makes your business stand out and keeps you top of mind. Think of it as wearing a name tag at a party—only cooler.
Your company logo is one element of your brand identity and it should not be underestimated….that being said, don’t overthink this too much either. Design some options, either by working with a professional graphic designer (look for freelance logo designers to keep costs low) or if you’re more of a DIY’er try designing a few logos in Canva. Then run your logo designs by a few people you trust and ultimately, go with your instinct on which one will be best for the brand you’re trying to build. Think long term and easily recognizable.
Define Your Brand Identity
Your brand identity is the vibe your business gives off—it’s the personality that customers connect with. Whether you’re bold and edgy or friendly and approachable, having a clear identity keeps your messaging consistent and builds trust. It’s the difference between “Wow, this feels professional” and “Wait, what are they about again?”
Website with SEO Basics
Your website is your business’s home on the internet—and nobody wants to visit a house that looks like it hasn’t been cleaned since the 90s. With SEO basics, it’s not just a home; it’s a home with neon signs pointing right to your door. Make it easy for search engines and potential customers to find you. And don’t forget: a fast-loading site is the online equivalent of offering your guests snacks. Nobody likes to wait.
Professional Email Address
Using a Gmail or Hotmail email for your business is like showing up to a business meeting in flip-flops. Sure, you’ll be noticed, but not in a good way (unless that business meeting is taking place on a beach, in which case, where do I send my resume?).
A professional email address, like help@yourcompany.com, screams “I’ve got my act together” instead of “I’m doing this as a side hustle from my basement.” No offense to the basement dwelling side-hustlers either, for all you know I’m typing this from my basement wearing flip flops and a ratty old bathrobe. BUT first impressions do matter, even in an inbox.
Google Business Profile
If your business isn’t on Google, does it even exist? A Google Business Profile ensures you’re easy to find—whether you operate online, have a physical store, or both. It’s free advertising for your website, services, hours, and customer reviews.
For brick-and-mortar locations, it literally puts you on the map, while online businesses benefit from increased visibility in search results. Spoiler alert: people Google before they decide to call, visit, or click.
Social Media Profiles
Social media is where you get to be the life of the party (or at least make people think you are). It’s your chance to show off your personality, engage with customers, and casually remind them why your business is awesome. Even if your budget is tighter than skinny jeans, consistent posting and a little charm can go a long way. Pro tip: memes are the universal love language of the internet—use them wisely.