Are you tired of Facebook and Instagram? You’re not alone. You might be one of many small business owners now exploring ways to market your business without social media.
In today’s digital world, you might assume the only way to grow your business is to promote your services with social media.
But then you post amazing graphics and fun videos at the recommended times for your followers, yet get very few leads for all your work.
It’s completely understandable to feel frustrated with Facebook and Instagram, especially if you’re putting in so much time and effort with very little return.
Grow Your Business Without Social Media
Social media is just one tool, and it’s not always the best lead generator for every business. There are plenty of other ways to attract clients without relying on social media.
I have eight alternative strategies I’m using to grow my own business.
These “old school” strategies helped my business find success two decades ago!
1. Optimize Your Website for SEO
Since you specialize in something special and unique, double down on optimizing your website to attract organic traffic.
- Regularly publish SEO-rich blog posts with how-to guides, helpful tips, and case studies.
- Create dedicated landing pages targeting your local business (e.g., Affordable Web Design for Small Businesses in Northern Michigan).
- Refresh and optimize your portfolio with client testimonials and detailed project breakdowns.
Use Google Search Console and Google Analytics to track what’s working with your SEO and what needs improving.
2. Google Business Profile for Local SEO
People will search for a business like yours on Google rather than social media, so make sure:
- Your Google Business Profile is fully optimized with fresh updates, photos, and reviews.
- You ask satisfied clients for Google reviews (this can significantly improve rankings and credibility).
- Your website is listed in local directories and on chamber of commerce websites.
3. Networking and Local Partnerships
The thing that helped me get my start was face-to-face networking. I still believe it’s important for people need to see you and hear you.
- Attend chamber of commerce meetings, business networking groups, and small business expos.
- Offer free workshops or training sessions on your products or services.
Are there any businesses in your community that would make sense to form some kind of partnership with? Look for a relevant industry that aligns with yours so you can refer clients.
4. Email Marketing and Newsletters
People subscribe to your email newsletter because they want to hear from you. You can’t find more qualified leads than that!
If you already have a client base, make sure you nurture those relationships.
- Start a monthly email newsletter with company updates, industry trends, and client success stories.
- Create a lead magnet and offer something free to capture email subscribers.
- Offer exclusive discounts or referral bonuses to past clients.
5. Follow Up With Past Inquiries
There are times when I meet with a potential web client and provide them with a proposal, but I don’t hear back from them (via email or phone).
When I follow up with the email I sent previously, 9 times out of 10 they appreciate the reminder and are ready to move forward.
Go through your past inquiries or leads and see if you can send a “following up” email to anyone who seemed most interested.
6. LinkedIn and Thought Leadership
Since you might have gained valuable clients from LinkedIn, focus there instead of Facebook and Instagram.
- Post insightful content about your industry or changes with your business.
- Engage in LinkedIn groups where business owners discuss relevant issues.
- Send personalized connection requests to local business owners and see if you can be of help to them.
7. YouTube or Video Tutorials (without Social Media)
Keep creating videos! However, post videos to your YouTube channel instead of social media.
You can embed your YouTube videos in your website (on a page or as part of a blog post). Embedded videos can work better than Instagram and Facebook reels, so embed videos on your blog to keep visitors engaged.
Google likes optimized YouTube content because it owns YouTube!
Plus, your YouTube video channel with optimized video links will show up pretty high in organic Google search results.
8. Referral Incentives for Clients
Do you offer a referral incentive to current clients? They can be a great source of potential customers.
Let happy clients know you’re available for more work and would appreciate a recommendation.
Grow Your Business Without Social Media
Your website will always be your most important marketing hub, especially for generating leads and capturing new potential customers.
Your Google Business Profile is another important marketing tool, especially for finding local customers.
By focusing on SEO, networking, and strategic outreach, you can attract quality leads without the time-suck of social media.
