You’ve built an amazing business. But how do you get the word out?
In 2025, small businesses dropped a whopping $640 billion on advertising. It’s a brutally competitive world, and the water’s rising fast.
In the old days, you would take out a newspaper ad or a radio spot to get traction.
Today, it’s an evolved game of online ads, social media, SEO, and engaging content — and even a few offline tricks.
With over 100 ways to advertise, this guide zooms in on 30 proven, high-impact moves to crush the competition and rise above. Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways:
Smart advertising uses offline tactics with cutting-edge digital strategies for maximum reach.
Tailored online targeting (from social ads to SEO) delivers measurable engagement and better ROI.
Consistent, high-quality content fuels organic growth and nurtures customer trust over time.
Leveraging customer reviews, local listings, and influencer partnerships bumps up your credibility and visibility.
Data-driven optimization and retargeting keep your brand top of mind, attracting loyal customers.
How to Advertise Your Business on Google Smartly
Thankfully, Google lets you get super specific — targeting exactly who you want, when they’re ready to buy. Let’s break down our top 5 tips on how to advertise your business on Google.
1. Leverage Google Ads for Targeted Campaigns
Google Ads (if optimized) appear at the top of the page, right in front of target customers who are searching for what you offer.
In fact, people who click paid search ads are 50% more likely to buy than organic visitors. It’s one of the fastest ways to drive qualified leads.
Here’s how to make PPC campaigns so effective:
Target the right audience by keyword, location, and demographics
Track conversions to see which clicks turn into calls or sales
Test different headlines and landing pages to improve performance
Control your spend by putting money behind the top-converting ads
Review results regularly and refine to maximize ROI
When executed properly, Google Ads is one of the best advertising platforms to generate leads.
2. Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Have you claimed your Google Business Profile yet? If not — big mistake.
A complete Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) ups your chances of being found in your local area and on Google Maps.
In fact, businesses with a fully filled-out profile are 50% more likely to be picked by customers!
What you should do:
Use accurate and consistent information: name, address, phone number (NAP)
Upload clear images of your space or services, and post updates/offers
Keep your hours current, respond to customer reviews, and publish fresh posts
Maintain an optimized profile. This is FREE real estate to drive more visitors your way.
3. Invest in SEO for Long-Term Organic Growth
Paid advertising stops the moment you stop paying. SEO (search engine optimization), on the other hand, gives you major visibility on search engine results pages — bringing in organic traffic over the long haul.
Do keyword research on tools like Google Keyword Planner to match what real customers search for
Make sure your site is mobile-friendly (easy to use on mobile devices) and loads fast
Publish helpful content regularly to build trust and relevance
Earn backlinks from reputable sites to boost authority and rankings
SEO takes time, but once it kicks in at around month 6, it could drive an average ROI of 748%, or even higher if you work with an expert SEO agency.
4. Create Search Engine-Friendly Content
At the heart of good content lies… engagement! Google loves content that gives valuable answers to real-world questions.
When people stay, scroll, and engage, even more organic traffic follows.
Start with keyword research to understand user intent. Example: “cost of furnace repair” signals someone ready to buy.
Use strong headings and meta descriptions so searchers know exactly what they’ll get.
Place keywords naturally — no stuffing.
Include visuals, examples, and step-by-step instructions to keep people on your website page.
Add clear CTAs like “Book a quote” or “Get pricing” to capture demand.
This week, refresh one top-performing web page with stronger headings, clearer CTAs, and a keyword-aligned title.
5. Build Quality Backlinks to Improve Ranking
When reputable websites link to yours, search engines see you as more credible. This boosts your domain authority and helps you climb higher in search results.
In fact, pages that rank #1 on Google have 3.8X more backlinks than those ranked #2 to #10.
Here are smart, ethical ways to execute your link-building strategy:
Guest posting on respected blog posts or industry sites
Partnering on content like interviews, guides, or comparison articles
Earning links naturally by publishing data, tools, or standout resources that people want to reference
What to avoid: cheap, spammy link farms or irrelevant sites. Quantity doesn’t win — quality and relevance do!
6. Generative Engine Optimization (GEO)
AI is the new frontier of search! More than 66% of consumersnow use AI tools regularly — asking ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity for answers.
If your business isn’t showing up in those answers, you’re invisible to a rapidly growing audience!
Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) helps you get discovered in AI search by:
Writing in natural language that matches how people speak
Providing complete, direct explanations to common questions
Using structured data (like FAQs and schema markup) AI can easily pull from
Demonstrating expertise and trustworthiness with helpful, well-sourced content
AI search is expanding fast, and every quarter, it gets harder to gain visibility on AI search, so start today.
Elevate your brand today - discover cutting-edge marketing solutions!
How to Promote Your Brand Through Ratings & Listings
Next up, let’s talk about your online reputation. We’ll roll through 6 tricks to appear in more places (with authority!), so that more prospective customers choose you over the competition.
1. Create and Maintain Profiles on Business Directories
Think of business directories as the internet’s “proof of existence.”
These listings strengthen local SEO by creating “citations” that verify your business details across the web. But consistency is key:
Use the exact same NAP (name, address, phone) everywhere
Add your website URL and accurate business categories
Keep hours updated — nothing breaks trust faster than showing “open” when you’re not
More verified listings = more credibility. Make this a part of your business plan and get on it!
2. Encourage Customer Reviews on Google and Yelp
Reviews are the lifeblood of your business — over 95% of people check them before deciding to hire you or move on.
They also influence your position in local search: more high-quality Google and Yelp reviews = more visibility!
The best time to collect reviews is right after you deliver great service. Make it effortless by sending:
A simple review link in a follow-up email or text
A quick reminder included on receipts or invoices
A QR code at checkout or on marketing materials
Pro Tip: To make this easier, use automated review request tools like Podium, Birdeye, or NiceJob.
3. Respond Professionally to All Online Reviews
Reviews are a two-way conversation. Respond to each one because they are a MAJOR part of reputation management.
When your target audience sees that you reply (to the good and the bad), they know you’re accountable. Here’s the mindset:
Positive review: Say thank you and add a personal detail: “We’re thrilled you loved the installation, Sarah. Can’t wait to help again!”
Negative review: Stay calm and empathetic: “We’re sorry this missed the mark. Please contact us — we’d like to fix it.”
Prompt, professional responses build loyalty, soften criticism, and show future customers you actually care. Ignoring feedback — especially negative — does the opposite.
4. Showcase Testimonials on Your Website
Testimonials aren’t just warm fuzzies… they’re proof your business delivers!
In fact, having real customer stories on your site can boost conversions by 34%. Here’s how to put your testimonials to work:
Place them where people decide: homepage, service pages, landing pages
Use names, photos — or even better, short video clips — so they feel real
Keep them authentic, relevant, and human: “Thanks for saving my weekend!” beats “Great service.”
When visitors see others like them singing your praises, they can already picture themselves as your next happy customer.
5. Get Listed on Industry-Specific Review Sites
General review sites are helpful… but your perfect buyers are checking industry-specific platforms like Clutch (agencies), TripAdvisor (travel), Houzz (home services), Angi (contractors), or Avvo (legal pros).
When you’re listed on the sites your audience trusts, you instantly look more legit! Quick checklist for you:
Make sure your info is accurate, complete, and up to date
Add strong photos, examples of work, or case studies
Ask happy clients to leave a review on that exact platform
Show up where serious buyers compare options — that’s how you get shortlisted.
6. Use Badges or Awards from Review Platforms
Do you have awards and trust badges on your site? These instantly boost your street cred.
When prospects see recognition from platforms they already trust (like Google Guaranteed, Clutch Awards, Angi Super Service Award, or BBB Accreditation), their confidence in you skyrockets.
It’s visual social proof that says, “We’re the real deal.” Don’t hide them. Feature badges proudly:
On your homepage near key CTAs
In email signatures and newsletters
On landing pages and digital advertising
And keep earning more: apply for verified recognition programs each year and collect wins as you grow!
How to Stand Out on Social Media Platforms
5.24 million people use social media in 2025! That’s a massive pool of potential customers — and a lot of competition. Here are 6 ways to stand out loud and proud.
1. Run Targeted Facebook and Instagram Ads
Facebook Advertising and Instagram Advertising let you put your message in front of the people most likely to buy.
Plus, the targeting capabilities are really good! You choose exactly who sees your ads — based on demographics, interests, location, and behaviors.
To maximize your social media ROI, try these social media advertising tips:
Start with a clear goal (calls, messages, sign-ups, purchases)
Use retargeting to reach people who visited your website or engaged with past posts
Test different visuals and headlines to see what actually drives clicks
Keep your call-to-action clear: “Book Now,” “Get Offer,” or “Request a Quote”
You don’t need a huge budget to win on these social media sites — just smart targeting, testing, and tweaking!
2. Collaborate with Influencers in Your Niche
8 out of 10 peoplepurchase a product after seeing an influencer promote it.
You don’t need a celebrity to make an impact. Micro-influencers (smaller but highly engaged accounts) often drive better results, as long as their content aligns with your brand.
Choose influencers whose audience matches your ideal customer
Encourage UGC (user-generated content) that shows real experience with your product or service
Set clear goals for clicks, sign-ups, or sales so you can measure success
To find creators who actually fit your target market, try TikTok Creator Marketplace (search by niche and performance data) or Upfluence (great filters for location, demographics, and engagement).
3. Create Engaging Video Content for TikTok and YouTube
Short videos are where people’s attention spans live. Viewers retain up to 95% of a video’s message, versus just 10% when reading text.
TikTok and YouTube give you a direct line to your audience — and short-form content often gets the highest engagement. Not sure what to film? Start with these social media posts:
Behind-the-scenes clips that humanize your brand
Quick tutorials or “how-to” tips tied to your expertise
Short stories or transformations that show real outcomes
Stay consistent: post on a weekly schedule and use platform-specific best practices (hashtags for TikTok, great thumbnails and titles for YouTube).
4. Leverage LinkedIn for B2B Brand Awareness
Do you sell to other businesses? LinkedIn is your stage.
It’s where decision-makers scroll for industry insight, trusted partners, and new solutions. What works best:
Share short posts and longer thought-leadership articles that help your audience solve real problems
Optimize your company page with a clear description, service list, and case examples
Join relevant conversations — comment, connect, and engage with prospects regularly
Test LinkedIn Ads to target job titles, industries, and companies directly
And remember, consistency always wins in online marketing. More on that below!
5. Schedule Regular Posts with Eye-Catching Visuals
Aim to post at least 3–5 timesa week, as you’ll more than double your follower growth than if you post just 1 or 2 times.
Here’s how to make that happen:
Plan ahead with a simple content calendar so you’re not scrambling daily
Use visuals that stop the scroll — photos, graphics, or short videos
Design tools like Canva or Adobe Express make everything look professional
Schedule posts using Meta Planner or Buffer to keep momentum steady
Pro Tip: Batch a week’s content in one sitting and schedule it with tools like Buffer or Meta Planner.
6. Use Hashtags Strategically to Increase Reach
Hashtags help your content get discovered by people who don’t follow you yet, but are actively browsing topics related to your brand.
Use a mix of trending, niche, and branded hashtags. Example: #ACrepair #LocalHVACTech #YourBrandName
Research what your audience is already searching or engaging with
Stick to 5–10 highly relevant tags — not 25 random ones
Too many or irrelevant hashtags look spammy and confuse the algorithm. Remember, your ultimate business goal is to reach the right people who might become customers.
How to Promote Your Business Locally
Big brands spend millions to get attention — but you’ve got something they don’t: a community right outside your door. Let’s tap into it.
1. Offer Local Discounts or Loyalty Programs
Want to turn one-time visitors into regulars? Reward them for coming back!
Local discounts and loyalty perks give customers a reason to choose you over the competition.
Share local-only deals through email or social so nearby shoppers see them fast
Promote in-store: signs at checkout, table cards, or a simple “Mention this ad!” prompt
Use digital loyalty tools like Stamp Meor Smile.io, or QR-based punch cards to track rewards automatically
Customers love feeling valued. Give them that feeling and they’ll become your most vocal advocates.
2. Partner with Local Businesses for Cross-Promotion
Two local businesses teaming up = twice the visibility with half the effort.
Cross-promotion helps you reach new customers who are already supporting brands like yours. Easy win ideas:
Run a joint giveaway (e.g., “Buy a coffee, enter to win a free haircut”)
Create bundled offers, pairing products/services that make sense together
Co-host local events or pop-ups to attract foot traffic and buzz
Pick partners that complement your industry expertise — not compete. A gym + juice bar? Perfect. A pizza shop + dentist… probably not.
3. Advertise in Local Newspapers and Radio Stations
Digital is king, but local print and radio aren’t dead.
If your audience includes commuters, families, or long-time locals, this channel can punch above its weight. Make it count:
Keep messages short, bold, and hyper-local: name neighborhoods, landmarks, community perks
Add a simple tracking element like a promo code, QR code, or “Mention this ad!” offer
Pair print or radio with a digital follow-up — direct people to a landing page with a clear CTA
Pro Tip: Test out new channels in your digital marketing with a small budget and scale if you see results.
4. Host an Event to Engage the Community
Want people to really remember your business? Meet them face-to-face. Community events help locals experience your brand! Event ideas that work:
Open houses — invite the neighborhood in for a fun “meet the team” moment
Workshops or demos — teach something useful and position yourself as the expert
Pop-ups with partners — boost foot traffic and share the spotlight
Promote it everywhere: local Facebook groups, flyers around town, Instagram stories, and make sure you collect emails or QR sign-ups while everyone’s engaged.
After the event, follow up with a “Thank you + exclusive offer” to win more business.
5. Donate to Charity or Sponsor Local Causes
It’s time to give back. Support what your community already cares about.
Great examples: sponsoring a local sports team, donating gift cards to a school fundraiser, or contributing to a neighborhood clean-up. But remember:
Choose causes that align with your brand or customer base (Pet store → animal shelter. HVAC company → housing charity.)
Provide something useful — not just a logo on a banner
(Coffee shop → free hot cocoa at the winter parade. Dental clinic → free mouthguards for the local hockey team.)
Share the moment online: post photos, tag the organization, and encourage them to do the same
And don’t forget the follow-through: add a “Proud Community Partner” section to your website and feature those partnerships in ads and social content.
6. Distribute Flyers or Posters in High-Traffic Areas
Yes, print marketing like flyers still works. Here are a few smart placement ideas:
Coffee shops, community boards, gyms, libraries
Near busy intersections or local event venues
Inside partner businesses that share your audience
Add a digital hook so you can track results: a QR code that leads to a special offer, a unique URL, or a text-to-claim coupon.
A physical reminder that people can pin to a fridge keeps your business top-of-mind far more easily than any digital asset.
How to Build a Direct Connection with Your Customers
Relationships are at the heart of your business. When people feel connected to your brand, they’re likely to buy from you. These 6 tips help break through the “just another business” trap.
1. Launch an Email Marketing Campaign
Email reaches people who already know you and trust you enough to invite your business into their inbox.
And with an ROI of $36–$40 for every $1 spent, it delivers results that are hard to beat.
Segment your list to tailor messages for different customer needs
Add personalization that feels like a real conversation
Automate follow-ups so leads don’t go cold
Track opens, clicks, and conversions to see what drives revenue
Start simple with your email marketing efforts: write one helpful email this week and schedule it in Mailchimp or Klaviyo — then, watch the results.
2. Attend Trade Shows and Networking Events
Trade shows and networking events put your brand in front of decision-makers you won’t reach with ads alone.
Do these to stand out from other business owners:
Set up a booth that’s inviting — clear branding, engaging visuals, and a strong offer
Use tools or forms to capture leads: badge scans, business cards, QR codes
Follow up within 48 hours with a personalized email referencing something from your conversation
Example: If you’re in legal marketing, attending a Bar Association conference connects you directly with solo lawyers looking for growth help.
3. Offer Free Consultations or Demos
A free consultation or demo is your chance to prove your value before anyone spends a dollar.
When people see your expertise firsthand, conversion becomes much simpler.
It’s tough standing out as a small business online, so try these proven tips:
Add online booking to your business website so prospects can reserve instantly
Offer a short, structured call or walk-through focused on solving one real pain point
Share a quick win or recommendation they can use right away
Send a follow-up email summarizing the next steps and a clear CTA to move forward
Give prospects the confidence to choose you, and they will.
4. Collect Feedback Through Surveys
Want to know exactly what customers love, and what’s costing you business? Just ask!
Surveys give you the real insights you need to improve your service, fix friction points, and keep customers coming back.
Keep surveys short (3–5 questions are enough to get useful data)
Ask actionable questions: “What’s one thing we could improve?”
Offer a small thank-you incentive, like a discount or reward entry, to boost participation
Feedback is free consulting. The more you listen, the faster you grow.
5. Offer Live Chat Support on Your Website
Adding live chat can dramatically boost conversions!
Most visitors won’t call or fill out a form — but they will ask a quick question in a chat box. Make it smooth:
Use chatbots to handle common questions fast (pricing, hours, availability)
Have a real person step in when the conversation gets serious
Connect chat to your CRM so every lead and inquiry is tracked
Pro tip: Add a “Chat with us” nudge on product/service pages. You’ll catch people while they’re actively considering, and help them cross the finish line.
6. Use SMS Marketing for Direct Communication
Finally, use text messaging to reach your customers fast.
The reason we walked you through all of this is simple: businesses just like yours are already generating leads consistently — and they’re doing it with us.
We serve local businesses across the U.S. that were once struggling with unpredictable pipelines. Today, they’re getting high-value jobs consistently because their marketing finally works.
Look, lead generation for small businesses is cutthroat. In any major metro, you’re competing against hundreds of businesses that are aggressively investing in SEO, Maps, LSAs, and PPC.
If your goal is to grow a profitable, stable business, you can’t afford to guess your way through marketing.
The good news: Comrade can help.
Our team has been at this for 18 years, and we stack your pipeline with top-tier SEO, PPC, and web design services.
Ivan Vislavskiy is Comrade Digital Marketing’s co-founder and fearless leader, spearheading the agency’s production department.
Digital Marketing Performance Audit
Unlock a full potential of your website. See which gaps in your marketing don’t allow your organization to scale. Get a complimentary, no obligation marketing performance review.
