Are you starting a business on a shoestring budget or need ways to stretch your small business marketing budget? Marketing a business doesn’t have to cost a lot. Here are 57 low-cost, high-impact methods to advertise and promote your business.

Determining the best ways to advertise and promote your business can be an ongoing challenge. If your business is new, you may not know how to advertise your business to get your name known. If you’ve been in business for years, you may be wondering how to promote your business effectively when the promotional methods you’ve always used aren’t working as well anymore. The way customers shop for what you sell may have changed, their needs may be different, or you’re missing younger, new customers because you’re unsure how to promote your business to them.

Whatever your business structure or circumstances, you need proven advertising and marketing tactics to find new customers without spending a fortune. These need to include a mix of traditional and digital marketing. Here are some of the best ways to bring in business on a limited budget.

57 Ways to Promote Your Business

You can’t promote and advertise your business effectively until you take these two steps:

1. Plan your marketing

To market your business successfully, you need a planned, organized approach. Hit-or-miss marketing wastes time and money. Start by defining your marketing strategy and setting a budget.

2. Identify your best prospects

Determine the characteristics of your best prospects and the best promotional strategies to reach them. Be as specific as possible.

Is the decision-maker the CTO of the company, the director of human resources, the paralegal filing new business LLCs, or a 37-year-old working mom? Will you find them on X, Pinterest, Facebook, YouTube, or Instagram? What about in-person networking at local business meetings or community organizations?  

What about advertising? Will customers be searching for your type of product on Google or Bing? Do they look for coupons in newspapers? Do you want to start promoting your business to them at the start of their buying cycle or when they’re about ready to pull out their credit card and make the purchase? Write your answers down and refer to them before you start any new marketing tactic. Use this marketing plan worksheet to gather your information.

Learn how to promote your business online

Digital marketing isn’t an option — it’s a necessity. Whether you sell turquoise jewelry, empanadas, or asbestos removal services, you need to promote and advertise where your customers are searching for what you sell. And that’s online. Here are ways to accomplish that affordably.

3. Set up a website for your business

If you don’t have a website, get one set up. A working website is critical for marketing your business and for making your brand known, even if your business has a big social media following. You need to get a business domain because, depending on what you sell, your website serves as a lead generation tool, online brochure, catalog, and information source for your potential customers.

Having your own website is important because you have complete control over how you promote your products and services on your site and how long promotions and other content is visible. You don’t have that control with social media. 

Whether you choose a ready-to-use template or have someone build a site for you, be sure the design is responsive. In other words, it needs to look good and be easy to read on mobile devices as well as on desktop and laptop computers.
 
RELATED: How to Advertise Your Website for Free

4. Include a blog

Blogs (or other written articles on your site) serve two functions. They inform your customers and prospects. The blog or article content also improves your chances of being found in search engines.

You don’t even need to be a professional writer to add a blog. Just write information your customers will find helpful at different stages of the buying cycle or provide tips and hints on using what you sell.

5. Use basic SEO for your website

SEO stands for search engine optimization — in other words, setting up your web pages so the search engines understand the content of the page. Doing so increases the chances of having your site show up in search results when someone searches for what you sell or the kind of information you provide.

Although some companies spend a lot of money on SEO, there are a number of things you can do yourself to improve the SEO of your site. Among them:

• use a different title for each page on your website
• use phrases people search for in the page title
• include your business name, location, and phone number on all pages of your site

6. Promote your business on Google

You can set up a business profile for free on Google. The profile may show up when people search for your company name and can help advertise your business. To get listed on Google, go to Google Business Profile. Bing has a similar option. To get listed on Bing, go to Bing Places for Business.

On both sites, fill out all the information you can, including phone number, website, business address, and hours of operation, when appropriate. Doing so can help your business show up at the top of search results when someone in your general vicinity is searching for your products or services.

Google Ads can also be a cost-effective advertising strategy, offering discounts and promo credits.

7. Claim your Google Business Profile listing

Claiming your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) listing is a crucial step in promoting your business online. This free listing allows you to manage your business’s presence across Google Search and Maps, making it easier for potential customers to find you. By verifying your business, you can add photos, videos, and other information to your listing, which can help increase your visibility and credibility.

Additionally, you can use your Google Business Profile to respond to customer reviews and engage with your target audience. This interaction not only builds trust but also enhances your online reputation, making it a vital tool for promoting your business effectively.

8. Promote your business on social media

You can set up a free business profile or page on social media sites such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and Pinterest. A strong social media presence is crucial for driving brand awareness and customer interaction. You can set up a Facebook page for your business that is separate from your personal profile. To attract attention from potential customers, be sure to include a good description, keywords, business phone number, and a link to your website. Keep your business and personal pages separate on other social media sites, as well.

9. Participate in social media discussions

Look for or start social media discussions on topics related to your field. Look for groups or conversations that talk about your type of products or services and participate in the conversations, but don’t spam them with constant promos for what you sell.

10. Use LinkedIn groups to expand your network

LinkedIn Groups are a great way to expand your network and promote your business to a targeted audience. By joining groups related to your industry, you can connect with other business owners, share your expertise, and build relationships that can lead to new opportunities.

You can also use LinkedIn Groups to share your content, participate in discussions, and establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry. With millions of groups to choose from, you’re sure to find ones that align with your business goals and target market. Engaging in these groups can help you stay updated on industry trends and gain valuable insights from other business owners.

11. Use email marketing to bring in business

Email is the most cost-effective way to advertise and promote your business. For small business owners, email marketing is a cost-efficient tool for attracting and retaining customers by communicating with them and reminding them to make purchases or visit your website.

You can use an email marketing service to maintain your mailing list and send the emails. Ask customers, website visitors, and social media followers to sign up for your email list. Then, send an email newsletter and/or promotional offers to customers and prospects on a regular basis.

One good way to build a permission-based email list of people who want your mailings is to give something away. It could be a free ebook or even a free tip sheet on how to do something related to your business.

If you’re a health coach, for instance, you might offer a tip sheet with “10 Easy Ways to Lose Weight Without Going on a Diet” to people who sign up for your email list. If you don’t have anything to give away, try offering a signup discount on products or services as an incentive.

An email service can be especially helpful for this step, helping you manage your list and send professional-looking mailings.

12. Post tips and images regularly to social media accounts

To make your social media accounts useful promotional tools, you need to post regularly. If you post too infrequently, your posts won’t be seen. Information and photos that are interesting, helpful, or entertaining to your audience will get the most visibility. Tips on how your followers can improve their lives or businesses and posts with special offers are likely to get the most likes and shares.

In addition to posting regularly, you should vary the time of day you make your posts. Different followers will be reading at different times of the day.

13. Boost your most popular posts

Boosting social media posts is a low-cost option for advertising on social media sites. When you boost a post, you pay to increase its visibility. Target the boosted posts at groups of people who are most like your customers. This can be an inexpensive way of getting your business in front of potential customers in very targeted locations or who have interests that match what you sell.

12. Run ads on Facebook and other social networks

Although boosting a social media post is one type of ad, you get more options when you create an ad instead of boosting a post. On Facebook, for instance, creating an ad lets you set objectives such as conversions or lead generation, create call-to-action buttons, take advantage of more advanced targeting options, and do other things you can’t do when you boost a post.

15. Partner with influencers to promote your business

Partnering with influencers can be a highly effective way to promote your business to a wider audience. By collaborating with influencers who have a large following in your target market, you can increase your visibility, build credibility, and drive traffic to your website. When choosing influencers to partner with, look for those who have a genuine interest in your industry and are willing to promote your business to their followers.

You can also offer incentives, such as free products or services, in exchange for their promotion. This strategy not only helps in reaching a broader audience but also makes use of the trust and influence that these individuals have with their followers.

16. Run a webinar

Pick a topic for the webinar that will be popular with customers and prospects. Some topics that can foster customer engagement are important industry news, strategies for improving some aspect of life or business, and ways to solve common problems. You could also teach a short introductory course in a webinar.

Promote the webinar on social media and in your newsletter. Encourage friends to promote it on their social media accounts and newsletters, too. Require attendees to register with an email address so you can remarket to them after the webinar.

17. Host classes and events

Hosting classes and events is a great way to promote your business and establish yourself as an expert in your industry. By offering educational content, you can attract potential customers and build trust with your target audience. You can host classes and events online or offline, depending on your business goals and target market.

Additionally, you can use these events to promote your products or services and build relationships with your attendees. Whether it’s a workshop, webinar, or live demonstration, these events provide a platform to showcase your expertise and engage directly with your potential customers.

18. Create PDF versions of promotional materials

Convert your promotional literature to PDF format so you send product literature to those who request it in email. You save the postage; they get the material in minutes instead of days. Use a lead form on your website to offer the promotional material to website visitors.

19. Test pay-per-click (PPC) advertising

Buying pay-per-click advertising on search engines is an effective way for some businesses to acquire new customers and leads. Whether or not it will work for you depends on the nature of your business.

If you’re not yet advertising on search engines, look for offers that give you $50 or $75 in free advertising to start. Read the directions for the service you plan to use, and very carefully watch what you spend on a daily or more frequent basis until you’re comfortable using PPC ads (and feel confident that you’re getting a return on your investment).

20. Look into Google local service ads

Google local services ads are shown at the top of Google search results when people search for certain local consumer services such as plumbers, electricians, or roofers. Potential customers can click or tap on your local services ad to either call you or send you a message request. An added benefit: a Google Guarantee badge is available for businesses that pass a Google screening and qualification process.

You pay only for valid leads, but the cost per call or text can be very high. Thus, these ads are best suited for established businesses that know how to convert leads and know that the average customer charge or lifetime value of a customer will allow them to make a profit.

21. Ask customers to review your business

Good customer reviews are an important promotional tool. When someone is ready to choose a product or a service provider, they want to be assured that they’re making a good choice. One way they gain that assurance is by looking at the reviews. To increase the chance that customers will leave a review, send them a note thanking them for their business, and ask them to review your site online. Include a link to a place you’d like them to post their review.  

Related: How to Get Referrals and Recommendations

Use traditional methods to promote and advertise your business

Although online marketing and advertising are essential for bringing in business today, that doesn’t mean you should neglect traditional marketing tools. Online and offline marketing methods work hand in hand to bring in customers and clients and keep them coming back. Here are offline promotional strategies that are just as important now as they were in the past.

22. Boost your credibility by forming an LLC or corporation

If you’re an unregistered business like a sole proprietorship or general partnership, consider forming an LLC or a corporation. The “LLC” or “Inc.” designation that you add to your business name when you choose one of those entities makes your business seem more permanent and established. That perception can give you a marketing advantage by increasing your credibility.

23. Get business cards and stationery created

If you’re just starting out and don’t have a business card, business stationery, or promotional flyers yet, have them made up — immediately. They tell prospective customers you’re a professional who takes your business seriously. 

Printed business cards are important for marketing your business because they help people you meet remember you, your brand, and what your company does. Be sure to list your website address on your business card, letterhead, and any handouts you create. Include your main social media profile link, too, if possible. Another good strategy: include a QR code on the back with a link to sign up for your email list.

You should have the business cards professionally printed, but you can print your own letterhead and envelopes if you use good paper. If you only use a few handouts a month, you can print those yourself, too. But if you need a large quantity, have them printed.

24. Give business cards to your friends

Get your business cards into the hands of anyone who can help you in your search for new clients. Call your friends and relatives and tell them you’ve started a business. Visit them and leave a small stack of business cards to hand out to their friends. Keep a few in your wallet or purse to give out to people you meet who want to know how to contact you.

25. Give extra cards to your service customers

Neighbors and friends often ask each other for recommendations for service providers. Leave a few extra business cards with your customers when you do work for them. That way, when their friends and neighbors ask them for a recommendation, they have an easy way to pass on your business name and contact information.

26. Ask your vendors for business and recommendations

The vendors you buy from may need some of your services or know people who do. Ask for their business, and ask for referrals. If they have bulletin boards where business cards are displayed (printers often do, and so do some supermarkets, hairdressers, coffee shops, etc.), ask if yours can be added to the board.

27. Get out and network

People like to do business with people they’ve met and feel like they know. Get known by attending meetings of professional groups such as your local Chamber of Commerce, other local business groups, local chapters of national groups such as the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), or civic associations. Have business cards in a pocket where they’re easily reachable, and pass them out when you make a good connection.

Remember to ask what the people you speak with do and to really listen to them. They’ll be flattered by your interest and better remember you because of it.

28. Become actively involved in some groups

The above marketing idea will give you more opportunity to meet possible prospects. But remember: opportunists are quickly spotted for what they are and get little business. While you won’t want to become involved in too many organizations that require a lot of your time, you can make real contributions to the groups that are the best match for your business. Being active in local groups can bring you valuable word-of-mouth marketing.

29. Become a paying member

Pay for membership in those groups that attract your target customers. Becoming a paying member lets others in the group know you’re one of them, are interested in the group’s mission, and that you’re not just a freeloader or fly-by-night. Plus, you never know how the group will benefit you!

30. Get listed in member directories

Many business groups maintain member directories that they publish online. Being listed in these accomplishes two things. It helps members you’ve met or members who are looking for services like yours find your contact information. It also provides a link to your website that can be useful for search engine optimization. Some groups may list you automatically. Others will require you to submit your own information. In either case, be sure your contact information is correct and the link to your website works.

31. Exhibit at local trade shows

Local trade shows, as a type of local event, give you a strategic tool to enhance community engagement and visibility by displaying your products and services to the general public and other local vendors who may need your products or know someone to recommend you to.

32. Sponsor a local trade show or event

The cost of being a sponsor of small, local events or trade shows can often be relatively low. If the event attracts your audience, being a sponsor can build name recognition for your company and engage with the community and potential customers. Your business name and logo will be seen wherever the event organizers promote the show. That could be in pre-show mailings, the organization’s website, and in handouts and displays set up during the show.

Sponsoring local 5ks, fun runs, or similar events can have a similar effect. Local school events are also great options.

33. Give away useful promotional products

If you’re going to have giveaways at your booth, make them items your prospects will want to keep and use. Jar openers, keychain flashlights or hand sanitizers, refrigerator magnets, calendar magnets, drinkware, and pens are all items that can be imprinted to advertise your business, and they are all items people tend to keep and use.

34. Help your community

Think about the needs in your community. Could you help get your name known by organizing a food or clothing drive? Could you give free coffee one day a week to local police or nurses? Organize an environmental cleanup? Promote your community program to the press with announcements about the project and about the results you achieve.

35. Publicize noteworthy aspects of your business

Write press releases promoting what’s unusual about your business or how your company makes a difference. You can also use press releases to announce new products or services, share company news, and promote your business to a wider audience. This method not only helps in reaching a broader audience but also enhances your brand’s credibility and authority in the market.

Send the releases to local newspapers, radio stations, cable TV stations, and magazines whose audiences are likely to be interested in buying what you sell.

Post the press releases on your own website in a “news” section, and send them to one or more online press release services, too. Be sure your website URL is included in the release. To increase your chance of having the material published, send along a photo with your press release. Editors of printed publications and online sites are often in need of “art” (drawings or photos) to fill space and break up the gray look of a page of text.

36. Help reporters find you

Reporters are constantly looking for sources to quote in their stories. One way they find those sources is to use services that distribute their request for sources to publicists, experts, marketers, and others who want to be sources. To find out when reporters are looking for information you can provide, sign up for these lists and scan them regularly. One such service is HARO (short for Help a Reporter Out), which is free. Another service, PRLeads, is fee-based.

37. Write an article that demonstrates your expertise in your field

Send it to noncompeting newspapers, magazines, and websites in your field that accept submissions from experts. Be sure your name, business name, phone number, and a reference to your product or service is included at the end of the article. If the editor can use the article, you get your name in print and possibly get your contact information printed for free, too.

Better yet, ask to be a guest columnist for publications that reach your audience.

38. Publicize your publicity

Whenever you do get publicity, get permission from the publisher to reprint the article containing the publicity. Make photocopies and mail the copies out with sales letters or any other literature you use to market your product or service. The publicity clips lend credibility to the claims you make for your products or services.

39. Add an “As Seen On” or press section to your website

List the names of publications you’ve been mentioned in and link to the articles that mention you. This simple promotion can help add a little credibility to your site.

40. Ask for work

Contact friends, acquaintances, former employers (if you left on good terms), nonprofit organizations, schools and colleges, and even other businesses and ask for work. Let them know what you do and ask if they can use your services. If you don’t know who to contact at various businesses, call and ask who’s in charge of buying what you sell. Don’t be discouraged by people who aren’t interested. One “Yes” can make up for a lot of “No” replies.

41. Network with others doing the same work you do

It sounds surprising, but you can actually help your “competition” in a way that helps your business. Let them know you’re available to handle their work overloads if they ever find themselves in a tough spot. You can return the favor and send work their way when you get swamped. (But whatever you do, don’t try to steal their customers outright; that can ruin your business reputation.)

42. Offer to be a speaker

Industry conferences, volunteer organizations, libraries, and local business groups often need speakers for meetings and experts to run workshops and seminars. You’ll benefit from the name recognition, contacts, and publicity you gain from being a speaker at these events.

43. Give demonstrations

If your product or service is appropriate, give demonstrations of it to whatever groups or individuals might be interested. Or, teach others how to use some tool you use in your work.

44. Embrace video

Put videos of your product or service on YouTube and other video-sharing and slide-sharing sites. For some people, video is a preferred way of learning about products and services.  

45. Discover government resources for business

Find out what federal, state, and local government programs are available to help small businesses in your area. Most offer free business counseling, and some can put you in touch with government agencies and large corporations that buy from small and woman-owned businesses.

46. Publicize your diversity

If you’re a woman-owned or minority-owned business, post that fact on your website. You should also consider getting certified by private, state, or federal organizations. Many purchasing agents have quotas or guides for the number of goods and services they need to buy from minority- and women-owned businesses. 

47. Use sales letters to attract customer attention

Send out sales letters to everyone you think might be able to use what you sell. Be sure to describe your business in terms of how it can help the prospect. Drop a business card in every letter you send out. Follow up periodically with postcard mailings.

48. Use your vehicle to advertise your business

If you use a car or truck in your business, have your business name and contact information professionally painted on the side of the vehicle. That way, your means of transportation becomes a mobile, highly visible ad for your business.

49. Use a magnetic sign on your vehicle

If you don’t want to have your name painted on your car or truck, order a magnetic sign with your name, logo, phone number, and slogan. You can get them in various sizes and can remove them whenever you want. Magnetic signs can be ordered through many online printing and sign shops and are very reasonably priced.

50. Make cold calls

Get on the telephone and make “cold calls” to introduce yourself to prospects. These are calls to people with whom you would like to do business. Briefly describe what you do and ask for an appointment to talk to them about ways you can help them meet a need or solve a problem.

51. Give out samples

Get samples of your work into as many hands as possible. If samples are impractical or impossible, set up a portfolio of your work on your website.

52. Offer a free consultation

Offer a free, no-obligation consultation to people you think could use your services. Set a time limit for the free consulting so potential customers don’t take advantage of the offer. During the consultations, offer some practical suggestions or ideas — and before you leave, ask for an “order” to implement the ideas. 

53. Ask for referrals

A satisfied customer is often glad to refer you to their friends. Help them remember to do so by asking for referrals and leaving them extra business cards or fliers that they can give to their friends and family who need your services. Send them a link to post a review online, too.

If someone gives you a lead, follow up on it right away.

54. Get other people to help sell your products

In addition to selling your products yourself, look for affiliates, resellers, or people who will generate leads for you in return for a commission on sales. Be sure your pricing structure allows for the fees or commissions you’ll have to pay on any sales that are made.

55. Team up with other businesses for promotions

Get together with businesses that serve the same market but sell different products and services. Make arrangements to cross-promote each others’ goods and services by passing leads back and forth, sharing mailings, and making referrals.

56. Keep promotional materials on hand

Have sales letters, brochures, flyers, and other pertinent information printed and ready to go. In addition to the printed copies, keep PDF versions on your computer.

Ask prospects who seem reluctant to buy from you: “Would you like me to send information?” If they say yes, ask if they’d like the information by email or mailed through the post office. Follow up promptly with a note and a letter that says, “Here is the information you asked me to send.” Then, follow up a few days later with a sales call.

57. Run a contest

Contests are yet another way to promote your small business. Make the prize something desirable and related to your business — it could be a free gift basket of your products, for instance, or free services. Then publicize the contest in local media, on social media, and to your email list.

Be creative

There are many other low-cost ways you can get attention for your business. Toss around ideas with business associates, friends, and family. And look at the dozens of additional small business marketing ideas in our blog.

Staying on top of tax law changes might not be the most exciting part of running a business, but it’s one of the smartest ways to protect your hard work and set yourself up for success. The 2025 updates bring new opportunities to save and new rules to navigate, but with a little preparation, you can make them work in your favor. We’ve broken down the key changes and provided actionable steps to help you tackle tax season with confidence and keep your focus on growing your business.

1. Changes to Standard Deduction and Tax Rates

The IRS has adjusted tax brackets and standard deductions to account for inflation. Here’s what small business owners should note:

• Standard Deduction:
  • Single filers: $15,000 (up from $14,600).
  • Married filing jointly: $30,000 (up from $29).
• Tax Brackets: Marginal rates have been slightly adjusted. Review the new brackets to plan your estimated tax payments for 2025.

2. Expanded Home Office Deduction Criteria

The IRS has clarified rules for the home office deduction. If you use a portion of your home exclusively for business, you may now:

• Deduct a portion of expenses like internet, utilities, and mortgage interest more easily with simplified criteria.
• Use a revised formula for shared spaces used primarily for business.

3. New Energy Efficiency Incentives

Small businesses that invest in energy-efficient upgrades may qualify for expanded tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act’s extended provisions:

• Commercial Building Energy Credit: Increased incentives for installing solar panels, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and LED lighting.
• Electric Vehicle (EV) Tax Credits: Higher credits for purchasing or leasing electric vehicles for business purposes.

4. Section 179 and Bonus Depreciation Updates

Changes to depreciation rules could affect how you deduct equipment and property expenses:

• Section 179 Deduction: The limit has increased to $1.2 million, allowing more immediate expense deductions for equipment purchases.
• Bonus Depreciation: Phased down to 60% in 2025 (from 80% in 2024), so plan large purchases accordingly.

5. Health Insurance Tax Credit Adjustments

The Small Business Health Care Tax Credit remains available but with updated eligibility requirements:

• For businesses with fewer than 25 employees and average wages below $66,600.
• Employers must provide coverage through a Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Marketplace to qualify.
• Employers must pay at least 50% of the cost of employee-only — not family or dependent — health care coverage for each employee.

6. State-Specific Tax Considerations

Several states have enacted new tax regulations that could affect small businesses:

• California: Higher minimum wage thresholds may alter payroll tax contributions.
• Texas: Businesses making under $2.47 million no longer need to file a No Tax Due Report; this change was first implemented in 2024. 
• New York: Expanded small business tax relief programs.

Check your state’s tax authority for details.

7. Digital Transactions and Payment Platforms

The IRS continues to enforce new reporting requirements for digital payments via platforms like PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle:

• Transactions over $600 must now be reported via Form 1099-K.
• Ensure accurate bookkeeping for all digital payment transactions.

8. Retirement Plan Contribution Limits

Contribution limits for small business retirement plans have increased:

• SEP IRAs: Maximum contribution is now $70,000 (up from $69,000).
• Solo 401(k)s: Employee deferral limit is $23,500 (up from $23,000), with a $7,500 catch-up contribution for those aged 50+.

9. Audit Risk for Small Businesses

The IRS has increased audits targeting high-income earners and small businesses. Small business owners need to:

• Keep detailed records of expenses, payroll, and income.
• Ensure proper categorization of independent contractors versus employees.

10. Filing Deadlines and Tips

• Quarterly Estimated Taxes: Due dates remain April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15.
• 2025 Tax Filing Deadline: April 15, 2026. Consider early preparation to avoid last-minute stress.

2025 Tax Prep Action Steps for Small Business Owners

1. Consult a Tax Professional: Changes can be complex. A CPA or tax advisor can help optimize your filings.
2. Review Recordkeeping Practices: Accurate records make tax filing easier and protect you during audits.
3. Make Use of Technology: Use accounting software to stay organized and identify potential deductions.
4. Plan for State and Federal Obligations: Stay informed about regulations in your operating state.

Navigating tax changes can feel overwhelming, but remember — you’re not in this alone. Staying informed and proactive puts you ahead of the curve, helping you protect your business and make the most of new opportunities. Take these updates one step at a time, lean on trusted resources like tax professionals, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. By planning now, you can approach 2025 with clarity and confidence, knowing you’re setting your business up for success. You’ve got this!

Words have power. We all know that. So, which marketing words encourage subscribers to act, customers to buy, or donors to give? We read through dozens upon dozens of emails and compiled a list of “sales-boosting” marketing words and a list of “sales-deflating” terms. Keep these lists handy the next time you craft an email or social post, and don’t forget to incorporate a few power words.

What are power words?

Power words are the secret sauce behind many successful marketing campaigns. These are words and phrases that pack a punch, evoking emotions, creating a sense of urgency, and compelling your target audience to take action. Whether you’re crafting an email, writing a blog post, or optimizing your website for search engines, the right power words can significantly boost engagement and conversion rates. By strategically incorporating power words into your marketing efforts, you can capture attention, drive traffic, and ultimately, increase sales. Think of power words as the magic ingredients that transform ordinary marketing messages into compelling calls to action.

Types of Power Words

Power words come in various flavors, each designed to tap into different aspects of human psychology. Here are some key types of power words you can use in your marketing campaigns:

• Trust Power Words: These words help build credibility and trust with your audience. Examples include “risk-free” and “proven.” They reassure potential customers that your product or service is reliable and worth their investment.
• Greed Power Words: These words appeal to the desire for more — more savings, more benefits, more exclusivity. Examples include “discount,” “limited-time offer,” and “exclusive.” They create a sense of urgency and scarcity, prompting quick action.
• Curiosity Power Words: These words pique interest and encourage further exploration. Examples include “mystery,” “surprise,” and “new.” They make your audience want to learn more, increasing engagement.
• Anticipation Power Words: These words build excitement and expectation. Examples include “upcoming,” “soon,” and “limited edition.” They keep your audience on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting what’s next.
• Motivational Power Words: These words inspire and drive action. Examples include “results,” “improve,” and “achieve.” They resonate with your audience’s aspirations and goals, motivating them to take the next step.

By understanding and utilizing these different types of power words, you can tailor your marketing messages to resonate more deeply with your target audience.

Boost sales with these powerful marketing words

1. Sale – It’s the old faithful of marketing words. While a lot of businesses use the word “sale,” it has the power to motivate customers. Who doesn’t love a good deal?

2. Off – If you can offer your audience an incentive like 50% off or $25 off your next $75 purchase, you’ll pique interest quickly and give customers an added incentive to buy.

3. Now – This handy word encourages people to act. It creates a sense of urgency. Usually “now” is used as part of a call to action. Examples include “Shop now,” “Act now,” and “Subscribe now.”

4. New – Customers are intrigued by the newest gadget, product, or offer. It’s an attention-grabbing word that’s effective in emails.

5. Best sellers – People like knowing what items or services are popular, so creating a list of best-selling products is a great way to capture additional sales. Here’s an example from a home goods store, Wayfair. The subject line reads: “Best-selling accent furniture to find that missing piece.” The body of the email also uses the word “best sellers.”

6. Be the first – Customers like exclusive access. Give your audience a sneak peek at new products, upcoming offers, and high-quality content.

7. Your – Words like “your” or “you” show customers that you’re thinking about them. It’s a simple personalized touch that can go a long way to increase sales. Take a look at the three subject lines below. Each one includes the word “your” or “you.”

8. Thank you – Show your customers a little love by showing your appreciation once in a while. When you reach a new goal, thank your customers with a new deal, host a customer appreciation event, or send a kind email thanking new subscribers for signing up.

9. Remember – Your customers are busy, so it’s always a good idea to send reminder emails. Maybe you want to remind customers about an event or to use the reward points that they’ve accumulated. An example is, “Remember, you have three hours left to redeem your offer!”

10. Tips – Everyone can use a little help once in a while. Send emails that are full of tips to help your customers use your product or improve their business in some way.

How to Use Power Words Effectively

Using power words effectively requires a strategic approach. Here are some tips to help you maximize their impact:

• Headlines and Subject Lines: The first impression matters. Use power words in your headlines and email subject lines to grab attention instantly. For example, “Unlock Exclusive Discounts Now” or “Discover the Secret to Effortless Success.”
• Marketing Messages: Infuse your marketing messages with power words to create urgency and motivate action. Phrases like “Act Now,” “Limited-Time Offer,” and “Exclusive Access” can drive immediate responses.
• Email Subject Lines: Boost your email open rates by incorporating power words into your subject lines. Words like “Free,” “Urgent,” and “New” can entice recipients to click and read more.
• Content Marketing: Make your content more engaging and shareable by using power words. Whether it’s a blog post, social media update, or video script, words like “Amazing,” “Incredible,” and “Unbelievable” can captivate your audience.
• Search Engine Optimization: Enhance your SEO efforts by including power words in your meta descriptions, title tags, and content. This can improve your search engine rankings and drive more organic traffic to your website.

By strategically placing power words in these key areas, you can enhance the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns and achieve better results.

Where to Use Power Words for Maximum Impact

Power words can be sprinkled throughout your marketing strategy to maximize their impact. Here are some prime locations to consider:

Headlines

Headlines are the gateway to your content. They need to be compelling enough to make your audience want to read more. By using power words in your headlines, you can significantly increase their effectiveness. For example, headlines like “Limited-Time Offer: Save Big on Our Best-Selling Products” or “Exclusive Access: Discover the Latest Trends Now” can draw readers in and encourage them to engage with your content.

By strategically incorporating power words into these areas, you can create more compelling marketing messages that resonate with your audience and drive action.

10 Words That Can Deflate Your Sales

1. Hurry – Yes, you want to encourage customers to act fast, but this word is overused and doesn’t pack as much punch as “Act now” or “Limited-time offer.” Using words that evoke an emotional response can be more effective in prompting immediate action.

2. Look inside – These two words are commonly used in subject lines. You’re stating the obvious. Of course, the recipient has to look inside to read the content or claim the deal. Skip these two words and just get to the point.

3. Groundbreaking – While “groundbreaking” sounds impressive, it’s not helpful, says Eric Fischgrund, founder of marketing and public relations company FischTank. “Everyone says this,” he says. “To your readers, it’s an instant turn off.”

4. Guaranteed – Fischgrund reminds us that nothing in life is guaranteed, so it’s best to avoid using this word. You can still back your product or service; just refrain from using the word “guaranteed.”

5. Huge – Every sale and event is huge. Think of alternatives to use. For instance, “Our Biggest Sale of the Year.” It’s more descriptive.

6. Cyberspace – It’s not 1980. If you refer to the Internet in any way, avoid outdated terms like “cyberspace” or “information superhighway” unless you’re being ironic.

7. Hassle-free – Sure, the phrase seems positive, but you’re still associating the word “hassle” with your business or brand. Not a good idea. Go with “easy” instead.

8. Once in a lifetime – Cliché and typically untrue phrases like this don’t help your sales. Be original.

9. Final days to save – This phrase is vague. How many days are left in the sale? Give your customers a specific time frame on all deals.

10. SAVE UP TO 25% RIGHT NOW!!!! – There are two red flags in this statement. For starters, don’t use all caps; it makes people feel like you’re screaming at them. Keep your punctuation to a minimum, too. The sale isn’t any more enticing with three exclamation points.

Could these 10 marketing mistakes be costing you money?

In virtually every area of business, there will be pitfalls along the way. Marketing is no exception. Time and time again, I see retail stores large and small making the same costly mistakes. By knowing how to avoid these biggest marketing mistakes, you will save energy, disappointment, and money.

Mistake #1: Lack of Clear Goals and Tracking

Setting clear goals and tracking progress is crucial for a successful marketing campaign. Without well-defined objectives, it’s challenging to measure the success of your marketing efforts and make data-driven decisions. A robust marketing strategy should include specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals.

Tracking progress involves monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) such as website traffic, social media engagement, lead generation, and conversion rates. By setting clear goals and diligently tracking your progress, you can optimize your marketing strategy, allocate your marketing dollars more effectively, and ultimately drive revenue growth. Remember, what gets measured gets managed.

Mistake #2: Targeting the Wrong Audience

Identifying and targeting the right audience is critical for a successful marketing campaign. A well-defined target audience should be based on demographics, interests, behaviors, and pain points. Targeting the wrong audience can result in wasted marketing dollars, low engagement, and poor conversion rates.

Businesses should make use of data and analytics to understand their target audience and create detailed buyer personas to guide their marketing efforts. By focusing on the right audience, you can increase the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns and drive more conversions. Knowing your audience is half the battle won in any marketing strategy.

Mistake #3: Over-Complicating the Message

A clear and concise marketing message is essential for capturing the attention of your target audience. Over-complicating the message can lead to confusion, low engagement, and poor conversion rates. It’s important to create a simple, yet compelling marketing message that resonates with your audience.

Ensure that your marketing message is consistent across all marketing channels, including social media platforms, website content, and advertising. By simplifying your marketing message, you can increase the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns and drive more conversions. Remember, clarity is key in communication.

Mistake #4: Eliminating Marketing Efforts When Times Get Tight

When cash flow slows, advertising, direct mail, and other forms of marketing are the easiest expenses to reduce, right? But cut these, and you eliminate the very activities that will bring in new customers to turn your business around. This is the time when you may be spending more time analyzing the results of your marketing efforts and ensuring you have clear marketing goals. But by stopping marketing efforts, you will be setting yourself up for additional loss of business.

Mistake #5: Not Measuring Results

Don’t wait until times get tight to start measuring the results of your marketing efforts. By constantly analyzing these, you will be able to reinvest in what is working and drop those that aren’t. Ask customers how they found your business and then track the results. Use in-store or online coupons or host a focus group of a variety of customers to discover what attracts them to your business. Additionally, remember not to neglect your current customers, as retaining and nurturing them can be more cost-effective and valuable than solely focusing on attracting new clients.

Mistake #6: Putting All Your Marketing Dollars in One Marketing Strategy

If your entire marketing budget is used on just one method of promoting your business, you won’t realize the highest return on your investment. Diversifying your efforts will increase the frequency and reach of your marketing messages and stretch your marketing dollars.

Businesses can get hooked into one large advertising program with a local newspaper, magazine, or radio station and put the majority of their marketing dollars there. They feel as if they have to advertise with the same media source just because they always have or fear they will lose ground since their competitors are advertising there as well. I have actually known some business owners that stay with a company for fear of upsetting their sales associate. Remember, it’s your money and your investment. Don’t ever let anyone talk you into an advertising program that’s not producing the best results for your business.

I know this can happen because it happened to me. My advertising dollars were spent mostly on the same magazines for years until I started to focus on measuring the results more effectively. Start to measure the results of your advertising dollars spent vs. the income received from your advertising on a consist basis.

Many business owners tell me they only do a few direct-mail programs a year targeted to their existing customer base. Your customer base and mailing list are gold. Make sure you have budgeted a large part of your marketing dollars to advertise to your existing customers. They already love you, so keep them coming in by sending promotional (promotional — not just sale) postcards to them at least six times a year.

Mistake #7: Allowing Your Ego to Get in the Way of Common Sense

Ego can tempt a very bright person to do dumb things. Your marketing decisions should be based on factors that will positively impact some area of your business — usually the bottom line. Buying full-page ads or covers featuring yourself and not focusing on your business’s unique offerings may result in money out the window.

It’s crucial to integrate search engine optimization (SEO) into your digital marketing strategies to avoid losing traffic and valuable leads.

Mistake #8: Failing to Optimize and Improve

Continuous optimization and improvement are critical for a successful marketing campaign. Businesses should regularly monitor their marketing efforts and make data-driven decisions to optimize and improve their marketing strategy. This includes analyzing KPIs, conducting A/B testing, and gathering feedback from customers and prospects.

By continuously optimizing and improving your marketing efforts, you can increase the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns and drive more revenue growth. Failing to optimize and improve can result in stagnant marketing efforts, wasted marketing dollars, and poor conversion rates. Always strive for better, even when things seem to be working well.

Mistake #9: The Importance of Customer Feedback

Customer feedback is essential for creating effective marketing campaigns and driving business growth. Regularly gathering feedback from customers and prospects helps you understand their needs, preferences, and pain points. This feedback can be collected through surveys, focus groups, social media, and customer reviews.

Incorporating customer feedback into your marketing strategy allows you to create more targeted and effective marketing campaigns that drive more conversions. Ignoring customer feedback can result in marketing efforts that miss the mark, wasted marketing dollars, and poor conversion rates. Listen to your customers; they are your best source of insight.

Mistake #10: One of the Biggest Marketing Mistakes: Not Getting Help When You Need It

If you find you’re too busy to handle your marketing efforts or that your materials aren’t looking as professional as they should, it’s time to call in the reinforcements. Hire a full- or part-time employee to allow you more free time to work on the “business end,” or hire an independent business consultant to bring in new concepts and fresh ideas. Small business owners often face unique challenges in marketing, such as expecting immediate results and neglecting to monitor their efforts, making it crucial to seek professional help.

Content marketers are coming up with new and innovative content marketing techniques every day. While most marketers have acknowledged that they rely on content marketing, one thing is certain: not everyone has been successful in doing so.

Many brands still struggle with content marketing. The question that arises here is: What are the top-notch content marketers doing that others are not doing? Are they repurposing their same old “most viewed” or experimenting with new ways to market content?

If you’re sitting there, wondering how to carve your niche in the digital world, I have listed below the success stories of a few brands that made it using innovative content marketing examples.

What is content marketing?

Definition and Importance

Content marketing is a strategic marketing approach focused on creating and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract and retain a clearly defined audience. Unlike traditional advertising, which interrupts the consumer experience, content marketing aims to provide useful information that helps buyers make informed decisions. By consistently delivering high-quality content, businesses can establish themselves as thought leaders in their industry, build trust with their target audience, and ultimately drive profitable customer action. This approach not only enhances brand loyalty but also positions the business as a reliable source of information, fostering long-term relationships with customers.

Content Marketing Landscape

The content marketing landscape is constantly evolving, with new trends and technologies emerging every year. One of the most significant trends is the increasing importance of video content. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram have made video a crucial part of any content marketing strategy, allowing brands to engage with their audience in a more dynamic and visual way.

Another key trend is the rise of influencer marketing. With 49% of consumers relying on influencer recommendations, partnering with influencers has become an effective way to reach and influence target audiences.

Additionally, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is becoming more prevalent in content marketing. According to Scott Chow from The Blog Starter, these technologies enable businesses to personalize their content, improve customer experience, and make data-driven decisions. By staying ahead of these trends, brands can create more effective and engaging content marketing campaigns.

BuzzFeed: Quick Video Content Marketing Examples

Not long ago, our Facebook feeds were flooded with Tasty videos that made us all don the chef’s hat and head on to our kitchens. This is a prime example of effective content creation, which is essential for engaging audiences and maintaining their interest.

The quick videos still floating on the internet show various comfort recipes — recipes that we would generally love to cook to beat the munchies. These Tasty videos managed to appease the content appetite of Facebook users to a great extent.

The Secret Behind the Success

The videos did not make us go grocery shopping; the ingredients could be easily found in every person’s kitchen. Even a person with inferior cooking skills could easily cook food with the help of these videos. The autoplay video feature of Facebook worked wonders for this innovative marketing strategy. Food is everyone’s weakness, so they could easily engage everybody with their content. BuzzFeed’s content marketing strategy significantly influenced consumer behavior by delivering valuable information that enhanced the audience’s cooking skills.

Get Response: Jump to Influencer Marketing

Get Response used the genius marketing strategy of getting influencers to share their valuable experiences of working with them.

Not just written quotes — they even got accompanying YouTube videos featuring various influencers offering positive reviews for Get Response. Incorporating this strategy, along with effective email marketing, worked amazingly well for them, and soon they became one of the biggest email service providers in the world.

The Secret Behind the Success

Get Response had high-profile clients who had a large following. They took the testimonials from the individuals connected to content marketing. These influencers were well-known bloggers or content market experts who praised Get Response for providing better traffic.

Get Response knew that the majority of people following these influencers would also belong to the same category, i.e., content marketing. Therefore, getting these influencers to promote their company meant more customers!

Rolex: Eternal Sophistication

Having a very strong image in the market, Rolex played it safe with minimalist content and high-definition images. The sheer sophistication that these timeless classics carry could not be compromised with, but they did need a strategic marketing campaign.

Coming up with a completely innovative and fresh approach was not easy for Rolex, so they decided to go with their own eternal sophistication technique. Their content was similar to their product, brilliantly classic.

The Secret Behind the Success

Rolex knew that the timeless pieces it creates are enough to lure the audience. It did not describe its product. Rather, it just gave an extremely detailed and high-definition photograph of it, showcasing the power of successful content marketing.

GoPro: Stunning Visuals That Captivate Hearts

GoPro took advantage of the masses’ increasing inclination for video content. Instead of using traditional written content, GoPro used real-life videos to attract a larger audience. It included its customers in its marketing strategy, compiling and editing videos uploaded by the customers and then uploading them under the title “People Are Awesome.” Video content marketing examples show how videos can effectively drive brand awareness, generate leads, and boost sales.

The Secret Behind the Success

GoPro got its customers to upload videos captured by the company’s products. As a producer of camera products, GoPro was aware that people did not buy video cameras solely because they wanted to capture their moments but also because they wanted to share their experiences with the world. GoPro made its users upload more videos, thus giving them a better platform. In turn, they got a better reach and lured more customers into buying their products.

Optum: High-quality content comes first

Optum made use of comprehensive content marketing efforts, focusing on quality. They were more interested in giving quality content instead of focusing on new marketing strategies. The campaign they worked for needed to inform and educate people. So, instead of delving into other marketing strategies, they decided to work hard on the content. They created as many as 1000 pieces of content, which included things like ebooks, infographics, podcasts, articles, videos, emails, and many others.

The Secret Behind the Success

Optum knew that people needed information more than anything else and decided to offer them what they desired. They educated people with their content and made sure that it fed their desire to know more. The power that good content can have was not compromised in their marketing strategy. This was not a great innovation on their end, but it did work wonders for them. This entire campaign exceeded Optum’s goals by 250%!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the success stories of BuzzFeed, Get Response, Rolex, GoPro, and Optum demonstrate the power of innovative content marketing strategies. Whether it’s through quick videos, influencer endorsements, sophisticated imagery, user-generated content, or high-quality educational materials, these brands have shown that understanding and using the right content marketing techniques can lead to remarkable results.

As the content marketing landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest trends and technologies will be crucial for businesses looking to connect with their target audience and achieve their marketing goals. By applying these insights and strategies, you, too, can create compelling content that resonates with your audience and drives success.

Author: Ankit Gupta heads the content marketing of ExportersIndia.com. A writer by heart, Ankit loves to share his views and learnings with the readers through his write-ups.

Bluesky for business is gaining momentum as an alternative to traditional social media platforms. The Bluesky app is rising in popularity with increased downloads, indicating it’s becoming a significant player in the social media landscape. Unlike X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, Bluesky operates on a decentralized system, giving businesses more control over their content, audience engagement, and data privacy. As brands look for more transparent and algorithm-free platforms, Bluesky presents a unique opportunity for companies to establish a strong presence.

This guide will walk you through what Bluesky is, why it’s growing in popularity, the benefits and challenges of using it for business, and how to set up and optimize your Bluesky business profile to attract and engage customers.

What is Bluesky?

Bluesky is a decentralized social media platform that prioritizes user control, privacy, and transparency. Unlike mainstream platforms that rely on centralized data storage and algorithm-driven feeds, Bluesky operates on a system that allows users to own and manage their content independently. This decentralized approach provides businesses with a unique opportunity to engage with their audience without the constraints of ever-changing algorithms or the influence of paid advertising models.

The platform was initially conceptualized as a project by Twitter in 2019 but later became an independent entity. The goal was to create an open, federated social network where users could communicate freely while maintaining full control over their data.

One of Bluesky’s standout features is its commitment to data sovereignty. Unlike Facebook or Instagram, where user data is heavily monetized and controlled by the platform, Bluesky allows users to own their data outright. This is particularly advantageous for businesses that want to build strong customer relationships without third-party interference.

How does the Bluesky app work?

Bluesky operates on the Authenticated Transfer Protocol (AT Protocol), a new standard designed to create a network of independently operated but interconnected services. This allows users to have complete control over their content, identity, and interactions across multiple platforms. Bluesky facilitates decentralized public conversation, allowing for open dialogue without centralized control.

One of the most significant differences between Bluesky and centralized social media platforms is the ability for users to move their accounts between different services while keeping their followers and content intact. This means businesses are not locked into a single platform and can maintain their audience even if they decide to switch to another AT Protocol-based network.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Bluesky Business Profile

Setting up a Bluesky business profile is an excellent way to engage with an audience in a decentralized social space. Unlike traditional platforms, Bluesky doesn’t rely on algorithmic promotions or paid advertising, making it essential for businesses to establish a strong presence from the start. The following steps will guide you through the process of creating, optimizing, and customizing your profile to ensure maximum engagement and visibility.

1. Sign up for an account

At this time (February 2025), Bluesky doesn’t have a separate business profile feature per se, so you’ll sign up as an individual would but instead add information about your company. Follow these steps:

1. Visit Bluesky’s website – Go to bsky.app and click on “Sign Up.”
2. Choose your username – Select a username that represents your brand. Keep it simple, memorable, and in line with your social media handles on other platforms. You can also set a website as your username. This serves as a verification method and is Bluesky’s version of a “blue check.” It’s wise for businesses, public figures, and official organizations to do this. Bluesky usernames usually end with the bsky.social suffix, but you can set your website as your username. For example, ZenBusiness’s official account is @zenbusiness.bsky.social. Follow Bluesky’s instructions if you’d like to go this route.
3. Enter your business details – Provide an active email address for verification and password setup.
4. Upload a profile photo and a cover photo that represent your business.
5. Create your business’s bio – You can write a description for your business by clicking on “Edit my profile.” There, you can enter a display name and a description of your business.

2. Optimize your profile

Once your account is created, optimizing your profile is crucial for building credibility and attracting followers.

• Upload a High-Quality Logo – Your profile picture should be clear and recognizable. A 1:1 ratio image (such as 400×400 pixels) works best.
• Craft an Engaging Bio – Write a concise but compelling bio that explains your business. Include relevant keywords to improve discoverability.
• Add a Website Link – Direct users to your company website, e-commerce store, or landing page by adding the link to your profile description.
• Use Industry-Specific Hashtags – Hashtags help users find content relevant to their interests. Include 3 to 5 hashtags related to your industry.

3. Customize your Bluesky experience

Bluesky offers customization options that allow businesses to tailor their content and engagement strategies.

• Follow Industry Leaders – Connect with other brands, influencers, and niche experts to build your community.
• Join Custom Feeds – Subscribe to topic-based feeds related to your industry to ensure your content reaches the right audience.
• Set Up Notifications – Enable notifications for relevant discussions, brand mentions, and follower interactions.

4. Start posting and engaging

Your profile is now set up, but maintaining consistent activity is key to growing your presence on Bluesky.

• Create a Posting Schedule – Aim for 3 to 5 posts per week to keep your audience engaged.
• Mix Up Your Content – Share educational posts, customer testimonials, product updates, and behind-the-scenes content.
• Engage with Followers – Respond to comments, ask questions, and interact with other brands to increase engagement.
• Analyze Performance – Track which types of posts generate the most engagement and adjust your content strategy accordingly.

By following these steps, your business can establish a strong and professional presence on Bluesky, helping you connect with customers, build credibility, and grow your brand organically.

How to Effectively Use Bluesky for Business

Using Bluesky for business requires a different approach compared to traditional social media platforms. Since Bluesky is decentralized and doesn’t rely on algorithm-driven content promotion, businesses need to focus on organic engagement, community building, and high-quality content. Below are effective strategies to help businesses maximize their presence and engagement on Bluesky.

1. Content Creation Strategies

Content is king on Bluesky, and businesses must create valuable, engaging, and informative content to stand out. Unlike traditional platforms where businesses can boost content through paid promotions, Bluesky relies on organic reach and interaction.

• Share Industry Insights – Provide educational posts, news updates, and expert advice related to your field. This helps position your business as a thought leader.
• Use Visual Media – Posts with images, GIFs, and short videos tend to attract more engagement and can break up long text-heavy content.
• Post User-Generated Content – Showcase customer testimonials, reviews, and user-generated content to create a sense of community and trust.
• Create Polls and Q&A Sessions – Encourage interaction by asking questions and gathering feedback from your followers.
• Experiment with Post Formats – Try different styles, such as infographics, live discussions, and interactive storytelling, to see what resonates best with your audience.

2. Using Custom Feeds to Target Your Audience

Bluesky allows users to create and curate custom feeds, making it easier for businesses to tailor content specifically to their niche audience.

• Join Relevant Custom Feeds – Find feeds where your target audience is active and engage with their content.
• Create a Branded Custom Feed – Establish a dedicated feed for your industry, product updates, or niche discussions to attract like-minded users. Learn more on the Bluesky website.
• Monitor Feed Engagement Trends – Observe which types of posts gain traction and adjust your content strategy accordingly.
• Encourage Customers to Follow Your Feed – Invite customers and followers to subscribe to your custom feed for exclusive content and updates.

3. Engaging With Your Audience

Engagement on Bluesky is built around direct interactions and community-driven discussions. Businesses must take an active role in fostering conversations and responding to their audience.

• Reply to Comments and Mentions – Acknowledge and interact with followers who engage with your content.
• Participate in Conversations – Join discussions relevant to your industry and contribute valuable insights.
• Collaborate with Other Businesses and Influencers – Partner with complementary brands or industry influencers to increase visibility and credibility.
• Provide Customer Support – Offer assistance directly through Bluesky to build trust and maintain a strong brand reputation.

By implementing these strategies, businesses can effectively use Bluesky to build a dedicated community, increase engagement, and strengthen their brand presence on a decentralized platform.

Integrating Bluesky into Your Social Media Strategy

Integrating Bluesky into your social media strategy can help you reach a wider audience and create a more diverse online presence. Here are some tips for incorporating Bluesky into your social media strategy:

1. Create a Bluesky account and claim your handle: Start by setting up your Bluesky account and securing a handle that reflects your brand’s identity.
2. Develop a content strategy: Align your Bluesky content with your overall social media goals. Focus on creating posts that resonate with your target audience and reflect your brand’s values.
3. Utilize custom feeds: Take advantage of Bluesky’s custom feeds feature to curate content that is relevant to your niche communities. This will help you reach a more targeted audience.
4. Engage with other users: Actively participate in the Bluesky community by commenting, liking, and sharing posts from other users. This will help you build relationships and increase your visibility on the platform.
5. Monitor performance: Use analytics tools to track your performance on Bluesky. Monitor engagement rates, follower growth, and content performance to understand what works and adjust your strategy accordingly.

By integrating Bluesky into your social media strategy, you can create a more comprehensive online presence and reach a wider audience. This approach will help you build a strong and engaged community on Bluesky, complementing your efforts on other platforms.

Promoting Your Bluesky Business Profile

• Cross-promote on other platforms – Direct traffic from Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter/X, etc.
• Email marketing – Include Bluesky links in newsletters.
• Feature your profile on your website – Drive engagement by embedding Bluesky content.

Why is Bluesky gaining popularity?

As concerns over algorithm-driven content, data privacy, and ad saturation grow, businesses are turning to Bluesky for more control over their interactions. Several factors contribute to Bluesky’s rapid adoption:

• User Demand for Transparency – People want platforms that prioritize authentic connections over algorithmic manipulation.
• Data Privacy Concerns – Unlike Facebook, Bluesky doesn’t collect excessive data for targeted advertising.
• Algorithm-Free Environment – Businesses aren’t forced to pay for reach to connect with their audience.
• Open-Source Growth – Developers continuously improve the platform, ensuring innovation without corporate interference.
• Source for Breaking News – Bluesky serves as a source for real-time updates and breaking news, particularly for journalists who rely on it for immediate information and connecting with potential subjects.

Bluesky Growth Statistics

Year	Users	Growth Rate
March 2024	5 Million	Rapid post-launch adoption
October 2024	14.5 Million	Influencers and businesses expand reach
February 2025	30 Million+	Shift from centralized platforms fuels growth

(Sources: Statista, CNET, adamconnell.me)

Given this rapid growth, businesses that join Bluesky early can establish a competitive advantage before the platform reaches full maturity.

Benefits of Using Bluesky for Business

Using Bluesky can lead to business success by enhancing strategies for community building and user engagement. A Bluesky business profile offers distinct advantages for brands:

1. Organic Audience Growth

Unlike platforms where reach depends on paid advertising, Bluesky promotes organic visibility. Businesses can connect with followers based on real engagement, not financial investment.

2. Early Adopter Advantage

Joining Bluesky now gives brands a competitive edge in building an audience before the platform becomes oversaturated.

3. Custom Feed Targeting for Niche Communities

Businesses can create and curate feeds that allow them to directly interact with niche audiences.

4. No Ad-Based Competition

Without forced advertising, brands gain visibility through meaningful interactions rather than paid promotions.

Challenges of Using Bluesky for Business

While Bluesky has promising advantages, businesses should consider the following challenges:

Challenge	Potential Impact
Smaller User Base	Less reach compared to Facebook or Instagram.
No Paid Promotions	Brands must rely entirely on organic engagement.
Limited E-Commerce Features	No built-in storefronts or shopping integrations.
Requires Regular Engagement	Growth depends on consistent interaction.

Brands must be willing to invest time in engagement rather than relying on ad boosts.

Understanding Bluesky’s Decentralized Features

Bluesky’s decentralized features are a key differentiator from traditional social media platforms. By understanding how these features work, businesses can unlock the full potential of the platform and create a more authentic connection with their audience.

Bluesky operates on a decentralized model, meaning it doesn’t rely on a single company to control data and interactions. This structure allows businesses to have greater control over their content and audience engagement. Unlike traditional social networks, where algorithms dictate visibility, Bluesky empowers users to manage their own feeds and interactions.

One of the standout features is the ability to host content on multiple servers. This means businesses can choose to host their own servers, giving them complete control over their data and how it’s accessed. Additionally, Bluesky’s custom feeds allow businesses to curate content that is highly relevant to their niche communities, helping ensure that their posts reach the right audience.

Conclusion

A Bluesky business profile provides businesses with an authentic, ad-free space to build an audience. With custom feeds, direct engagement, and privacy-focused features, brands can establish themselves early in a growing community. Businesses willing to invest time in content creation, engagement, and niche targeting could see long-term benefits on this decentralized platform.

Need business formation help? ZenBusiness can assist with LLC setup, domain name registration, and compliance services.

Creating your own website for your business is easier than ever. Whether you use do-it-yourself tools or pay to have a web designer build your website, these tips can help.

There are a lot of options on how to build a business website. Which you choose depends on your needs and your budget. You can build a simple small business website yourself in a matter of hours, but for more complex sites or online stores, you might need to spend more time and money. Websites with a lot of functions and features might require a web designer (and maybe a web developer) to get correct, which will typically cost more than using do-it-yourself (DIY) tools or something like WordPress.

The good news is that building a quality and professional website is easier than ever, and even website builder tools can give you the professional designs and functionality that only pros could provide five years ago.

Benefits of Creating a Professional Website

Creating a professional website is essential for any business or individual looking to establish an online presence. A well-designed website can help increase credibility and trust with potential customers, reach a wider audience, and define your website’s purpose. Ensuring a positive user experience for your website visitors is crucial for maintaining engagement and driving conversions.

Establish an online presence

Having a professional website allows you to establish an online presence and reach a global audience. With a website, you can showcase your products or services, share your story, and connect with customers from all over the world. A website is also a great way to establish your brand identity and build a reputation online. By presenting a cohesive and polished image, your professional website becomes a central hub for all your online activities, making it easier for customers to find and engage with your business.

Increase credibility and trust

A professional website can help increase credibility and trust with potential customers. A well-designed website shows that you’re serious about your business and willing to invest time and effort into creating a high-quality online presence. This can help build trust with potential customers and increase the chances of converting them into paying customers. When visitors see a professional website, they’re more likely to perceive your business as reliable and trustworthy, which can significantly impact their decision to do business with you.

Reach a wider audience

A website allows you to reach a wider audience and connect with customers from all over the world. With a website, you can target specific keywords and phrases to attract organic traffic from search engines like Google. You can also use social media and other online marketing strategies to drive traffic to your website and reach a wider audience. By optimizing your website for search engines, you can improve your visibility and attract more site visitors, ultimately increasing your website traffic and potential customer base.

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Whether you’re a startup or a been-in-the-family-for-generations business, there’s no getting away from the fact that social media is now an essential part of your marketing strategy.

However, it’s so easy to get social media wrong – and this can impact negatively on your brand. So we’re going to give you a quick rundown of the top ten ways to make your social media strategy for small business work:

1. Keep it regular

Think of social media as the fiber of your marketing diet: it’s essential to keep things going. Make sure you are posting regularly and commit to it. Set a time in your diary to set aside for social media — whether every week or every day, that’s up to you.

2. Don’t post for the sake of posting

While it’s important to keep a regular posting schedule, it’s more important to post quality content that interests people. Use relevant links, images, videos, and blogs rather than posting about the weather.

3. Interact

It’s SOCIAL media. It’s not a print advert: the digital revolution means broadcast messages simply don’t work on social platforms. You need to engage with your customers  – that means rather than just posting adverts out there, ask them questions, get involved in their discussions, and find out what they want which you could provide.

4. Recruit

Social platforms are becoming the go-to arena for recruitment and are a fabulous way for a small-budget small business to get the best talent on board. You can use Facebook, X (Twitter), Bluesky, or any other social platform to target a key audience and advertise your vacancy. Even better, you could use BahGum and connect directly with people actively looking for jobs like yours!

5. Be visual

The exponential growth of social platforms such as Pinterest, Instagram, and Tumblr are great examples of how people view content these days: it’s all in the visuals. Some text-only posts are fine, but try to make around 70% of your posts visual to give people something to look at and – hopefully – share with their peers. This could be a special discount coupon to print off, an infographic about your industry, or even a photo of your team taking part in a charity event.

6. Use video

Video is the most powerful form of communication in 2016. YouTube is the most-visited social website (if you include Facebook-embedded YouTube videos…which we do) in the WORLD. Make the most of this ever-growing social resource to promote your products in an engaging and easily consumable way.

7. Keep it simple

There are so many social platforms out there now that it can be confusing to know which one to use. Instead of trying to be on ALL of them, figure out who your target audience is and which channels they use the most. Stick to two or three platforms (at least to begin with), and grow your community from there.

8. Use your community

Your followers like you because you have something to offer them. Find out what it is and use that as your unique leverage – maybe they are all local people to your coffee shop, or you have a unique product that solves their business problem. Ask your community – on a regular basis – what they would like to see from you and what problem you could solve.

9. Demonstrate your knowledge

You have a successful business – show it. Set up a Twitter Q&A hour, or arrange a Google Hangout to share some of your knowledge with your customers and clients. Give away some of what you know, and people will be begging for more.

10. Use a social management app

These don’t have to cost you anything, but it’s worth spending a few dollars each month for upgraded analytics so you can see where you’re going right (or wrong!). Offerings such as Buffer, Sprout Social, and Hootsuite are all available in different levels of payment structures to help you build your social activity as your online community (and business!) grows.

By Chris Smith

Holidays like Valentine’s Day are a great way to package current products or offerings with a fun promotion, sale, or bonus to generate extra revenue and secure new customers. But where do you start? It can feel like the possibilities are endless, and your marketing department might feel burnt out after a big holiday push in December. That’s why we’ve assembled this list of ideas to help you get started as you celebrate Valentine’s Day.

10 Valentine’s Day Marketing Ideas for Your Business

Here are some of our favorite Valentine’s Day promotion ideas to build your holiday marketing strategy.

1. Plan ahead

Before you jump into elaborate Valentine’s Day plans, make sure you plan ahead; it’s crucial for a successful Valentine’s Day marketing campaign. Start by setting clear goals and objectives for your campaign, such as increasing sales, boosting brand awareness, or driving website traffic.

Clarify who your target buyers are and create buyer personas to guide your marketing efforts. Develop a content calendar to ensure consistent and timely posting across all channels, from Instagram stories to TikTok posts and everything in between.

Last but not least, make sure you set a budget for your Valentine’s Day marketing. Track your expenses so you can help prove that your efforts had a positive return on investment.

2. Identify your target audience

Understanding your target audience is key to creating effective Valentine’s Day marketing campaigns. Identify demographics, interests, and behaviors that align with your brand and products. How will your customers spend Valentine’s Day? Will they focus on their romantic partners? Or will they celebrate self love? Answering these questions can help guide your marketing ideas.

Consider the types of gifts your audience is likely to purchase, such as romantic getaways, personalized gifts, or experiences. Analyze customer data and feedback to gain insights into their preferences and pain points. By understanding your audience, you can create targeted marketing campaigns that resonate with them and drive conversions.

3. Run a Valentine’s Day sale or offer discounts

Running a sale on Valentine’s Day gifts is a tried-but-true marketing idea. You can offer limited-time discounts, buy-one-get-one-free deals, or even bundle promotions like a free gift at a certain purchase threshold, all to incentivize purchases.

If you can, create a sense of urgency by setting a deadline for the sale or promotion. Use social media and email marketing to promote your sale and drive traffic to your website. Make sure to clearly communicate the terms and conditions of the sale to avoid any confusion.

4. Offer free shipping or expedited delivery

Offering free shipping or expedited delivery can be a major draw for last-minute shoppers. Consider offering free standard shipping on orders over a certain amount or expedited shipping for an additional fee. Use social media and email marketing to promote your shipping options to promote a sense of urgency.

While you’re at it, prominently display shipping cutoff dates on your website and in your purchasing portal. These dates will help customers feel confident their gifts will arrive on time. Once those shipping deadlines pass, you could promote digital gift cards as an alternative for your customers in a rush.

5. Create a gift guide

Creating a gift guide is a great way to help customers find the perfect gift for their loved ones. Consider creating a curated list of products that cater to different interests, personalities, or relationships. Use high-quality images and detailed product descriptions to showcase your products. Make sure to include a clear call to action, such as “Shop Now” or “Buy Now,” to drive sales.

Whenever possible, use social media and email marketing to promote your gift guide and drive traffic to your website.

For example, you can create a product showcase on your website with gender-specific gift items like “Gifts for Her” and “Gifts for Him” so your buyers will know exactly where to find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for their loved ones. While you’re at it, don’t forget a “Gifts for You” so your customers can treat themselves, too.

6. Add some romantic flair to your logo

You don’t have to have an elaborate Valentine’s Day campaign if you aren’t ready to. Sometimes, a few changes can go a long way. For example, you can “holidize” your logo. Maybe you’ll temporarily change your logo colors to include red or pink. You could also add some hearts, cupids, or arrows to show that your website has a romantic side.

It’s possible to make these changes on your own, or you can use online design tools to help.

7. Offer a special gift-wrap service

Offering a Valentine’s Day gift-wrap service is fun and relatively easy, and your clients will appreciate the extra effort you put into their gifts. Make sure you budget for the additional cost. You can charge for this service or make it complimentary, but either way, you’ll need to ensure the service can positively affect your bottom line.

Of course, be sure that you’ve budgeted your time, too. Gift wrapping can be time-consuming, so you may need to spend some extra time or hire temporary help to fulfill your gift wrapping needs.

8. Give special perks to your email subscribers

Valentine’s Day can be a great time to reward your most loyal customers. As you set up your email campaigns, consider offering a special promo code that’s exclusive to subscribers so they can purchase gifts for their loved ones (and maybe even themselves). You could also offer perks when they purchase digital gift cards, such as a $25 certificate for every $150 they buy in gift cards.

There are nearly endless possibilities for deals you can offer to your email subscribers, so be sure to evaluate how these perks will affect your finances for the year. But don’t forget that your subscribers will appreciate the deal, so what you spend now on promotions may pay off later in the year when they purchase from you again.

9. Include free custom message cards

Free custom message cards are a pretty low-cost promotion you can offer your customers. In the checkout section of your website, give your customers a chance to write a personal message to accompany their gift. This will save your customers time (especially those who are shipping gifts to long-distance loved ones), and they’ll appreciate the gesture on your part.

If you have good handwriting (or someone on your team does), you can make these notes handwritten. If not, or if you need to save time, a printed custom message card is still a great gesture.

10. Don’t forget Galentine’s Day

This one’s for the girls (and guys!) who want to celebrate the love they have for their friends. Traditionally, friend groups celebrate “Galentine’s Day” on February 13, but this special day is a bit more flexible for many busy friends who might gather on a Friday or Saturday night that’s most convenient for them (leaving you some wiggle room in your marketing efforts).

While romantic partners might be the traditional focus of the holiday’s gift shopping, your business can cater to a variety of relationships. For example, you might have a “For Your Bestie” category on your website. You might also feature a “Gifts Under $10/$25/$50” section on your website to cater to buyers who want to get affordable gifts for several friends at once.

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Ultimately, there’s no “wrong way” to market for Valentine’s Day, so do what works best for your business. Whether it’s an elaborate social media campaign, a 20% off special for your holiday items, or anything in between, you can make your Valentine’s Day sales a success.

Your business card is your calling card. It should be a tool that will get people to remember you and contact you for business. But if your business card is poorly designed, has important contact information in unreadable fonts, or looks unprofessional, it will be useless. Be sure your card works for you by avoiding these 12 common business card mistakes.

A business card is one of the most important and cost-effective marketing tools a business has. It helps people remember you after they return from a meeting, and it gives them a way to contact you in the future. Yet too often, small businesses make mistakes on their business cards that prevent the card from making a great impression. Those cards have a good chance of being thrown into the trash.

You don’t need to be a professional designer to come up with a good business card. You can make it an effective marketing tool by avoiding these common business card mistakes.