Transform Your Business
Growing a small business in today’s digital-first landscape means making smart moves that reach more customers, reduce reliance on costly third-party platforms, and strengthen your brand online. Here are essential tips to help you get noticed—and stay competitive!
1. Invest in Your Own Website
A professional, mobile-friendly site is your digital shop window. Use strong imagery, clear calls to action, and up-to-date contact details. Even if you list elsewhere, make your website the hub for news, offers, and direct bookings.
2. Claim and Optimise Your Google Business Profile
Set up (or update) your Google Business profile so you appear in local searches and map results. Add new photos, reply to reviews, and keep events and offers up to date. This increases visibility and builds trust with potential customers.
3. Build and Segment Your Email List
Start capturing customer emails via your website and booking platforms. Use segmented lists for targeted offers—VIPs, past guests, local followers. Regular newsletters drive repeat business and keep your brand top-of-mind.
4. Harness Social Media for Engagement and Sales
Choose two or three social platforms (e.g. Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) and post consistently. Use a blend of local stories, behind-the-scenes content, guest reviews, and special offers. Engage with comments, answer questions, and use branded hashtags for discovery.
5. Run Local and Paid Ads—But Test Carefully
Try small spend campaigns on Facebook, Google, or Instagram. Use geotargeting, video, and seasonal deals to attract the right customers. Always review stats—if you’re not getting direct bookings or inquiries, adjust your message and audience.
6. Encourage and Showcase Reviews
Send friendly follow-ups asking happy guests to leave reviews on Google, Facebook, or TripAdvisor. Share positive feedback in your marketing to build social proof and credibility.
7. Use Analytics to Guide Content and Offers
Set up Google Analytics and review traffic sources. Notice which posts drive bookings or sales, which emails get opened, and what pages people visit most. Let data shape your next campaign, not guesswork.
8. Collaborate for Cross-Promotion
Team up with local businesses—cafés, venues, attractions—for joint posts, giveaways, or bundled offers. Tag each other on social media to reach new networks and grow your followers organically.
9. Stay Current and Adapt
Watch for trends—short video, AI-powered chat, SEO changes, and voice search. Try new tactics (like adding WhatsApp booking) and don’t fear updating your content to match what’s working right now.
10. Prioritise Direct Bookings and Communication
Promote your “book direct” benefits. Use pop-ups, social posts, and emails explaining why it’s better for guests and for your business. Build loyalty with direct rewards, not third-party commissions.
Digital marketing is always evolving—so keep testing, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Every step you take builds your brand’s visibility and brings you closer to lasting success online
Sea Glass Marketing Ltd