Local business owners like you already know the obvious advantages of Digital Advertising. Targeted ads allow you to focus attention on ideal clients in your market while they are actively looking for your services. Whether you own a Law Firm, Home Improvement company or Med Spa, audience targeting can be a fantastic way to grow your client list. But like most effective marketing strategies, there is a price tag and a learning curve.
Is it possible to run a winning DigAd campaign on a limited budget? ABSOLUTELY.
Advertising your local business online doesn’t have to be expensive. With a strategic approach and the right tools, you can reach your ideal clients without breaking the bank. Here’s how:
1. Use Free and Low-Cost Platforms
- Google Business Profile (GBP):
- Create a free GBP profile to appear in local search results and on Google Maps.
- Keep your profile updated with photos, posts, business hours, and contact details.
- Social Media Profiles:
- Nextdoor:
- Create a free business profile and engage with your local community.
2. Leverage Organic Social Media Marketing
- Content Ideas:
- Showcase your services and specialties.
- Post behind-the-scenes content to humanize your brand.
- Share client testimonials or success stories.
- Promote special offers and events.
- Engagement Tips:
- Respond to comments and messages promptly.
- Join local Facebook or LinkedIn groups and participate in discussions.
3. Run Low-Budget Paid Ads
- Facebook and Instagram Ads:
- Use their advanced targeting features to reach local audiences.
- Start with a small budget (e.g., $5–$10/day) to test ads.
- Focus on ad objectives like “Traffic” or “Engagement” to drive website visits or post interactions.
- Google Ads:
- Run location-specific search ads targeting keywords like “best Roofer near me” or “Family Law Firm in [City]”
- Use extensions to include your address, phone number, and a call-to-action.
- Nextdoor Ads:
- Advertise directly to your local neighborhood.
4. Utilize Local SEO
- Optimize Your Website:
- Include local keywords like “Plumber in [City]” on your website pages.
- Create a location-based landing page if you serve multiple areas.
- Get Listed on Local Directories:
- Add your business to directories like Yelp, Bing Places, and local chamber of commerce websites.
- Encourage Reviews:
- Ask happy customers to leave reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Positive reviews improve your local search ranking.
5. Implement Email Marketing
- Build an Email List:
- Collect email addresses through your website, in-store visits, or events.
- Send Engaging Campaigns:
- Share exclusive discounts, new services, or business updates.
- Use free or low-cost tools like Mailchimp or Constant Contact to manage your email campaigns.
6. Offer Promotions and Discounts
- Run limited-time offers or flash sales to attract budget-conscious customers.
- Promote these deals through free platforms like social media, your GBP profile, or email newsletters.
7. Use Retargeting Ads
- Retarget website visitors or people who interacted with your social media.
- Use platforms like Facebook and Google to re-engage them with low-cost ads.
8. Partner with Local Influencers
- Collaborate with micro-influencers or community leaders who have an engaged local following.
- Offer free services, or discounts in exchange for promotion.
9. Host Free or Low-Cost Events
- Organize events like workshops, product demos, or community gatherings.
- Promote them on social media, GBP, and through email campaigns.
10. Track and Optimize Your Efforts
- Use free analytics tools like Google Analytics and Facebook Insights to monitor performance.
- Focus on what’s working and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Example Low Budget Campaign:
- Goal: Attract new plumbing clients.
- Budget: $50 total.
- Strategy:
- Run a Facebook ad targeting homeowners aged 30–55 within 10 miles of you offering a 15% discount for first-time clients.
- Use free tools like Canva to create eye-catching visuals.
- Post the offer on your GBP profile and share it in local Facebook groups.
By combining these methods, you can effectively advertise your local business online while keeping costs low and maximizing your reach.
At Lead Science, we also understand that taking great care of your existing clients is more than a full time job. With a busy schedule like yours, it can be difficult to find the time to learn these cost-cutting marketing strategies. Things like digital ads can be de-prioritized for the sake of keeping a business moving forward.
We can help.
The Lead Science solutions team has mastered the art of digital advertising and growing a local business Online.
Do you have 5-10 minutes? Let’s have a conversation.
