Marketing on a Budget
5 Things You Can Do Today (Even If You’re Not a Marketer)
Running a small business means wearing a lot of hats, and marketing often gets pushed to the bottom of the list. If you’re not a marketer, or you simply don’t have the budget to hire help just yet, don’t stress. There are simple, affordable ways to start getting your brand out there.
Here are five things you can do today to kickstart your marketing- no big budget or marketing degree required.
1. Get Clear on Who You’re Talking To
Before you post, design, or write anything, get super clear on your audience. Who are your dream customers? What do they care about? What problems are they trying to solve?
If you're a local tradie, your audience might care about reliability and clear communication. If you sell eco-friendly products, they probably value sustainability and transparency.
Action step: Write down 3 things your ideal customer struggles with and how you help solve them. Use this in your content.
2. Update Your Google Business Profile
It’s free, and it’s one of the best tools for getting found online, especially in local searches.
Add photos, your opening hours, and a description that includes what you do and where you do it. Don’t forget to ask happy customers for reviews, it builds trust and helps you rank better in search results. Someone once told me not to just assume that people will refer or recommend you- theres no shame in asking and its often over looked- what great advice!
Bonus tip: Post updates here regularly like you would on social media.
3. Start Showing Up on Social (Consistently)
Look I get it, when it comes to my own business i’m also shamefully shy on socials, but when it comes to my clients it’s a breeze. Start thinking like that, this is part of business, not your personal, and it will flip a switch. You don’t need to be everywhere. Pick one platform where your customers hang out and commit to showing up 2–3 times a week. Share behind-the-scenes, client work, tips, or common questions you get.
Not sure what to post? Try a quick video explaining what you do, a client win, or a simple “did you know?” fact about your industry.
4. Use Free Design Tools for Professional-Looking Content
Canva is your best friend. Use it to create social posts, flyers, email headers- you name it. They even have pre-made templates that are easy to customise (no design experience needed).
Hot tip: Stick to 2–3 brand colours and 1–2 fonts to keep your content looking polished.
5. Create a Simple Content Plan
You don’t need a 20-page strategy, just a rough guide. Plan out a few themes (like tips, testimonials, offers, behind-the-scenes) and rotate them each week.
Consistency matters more than perfection. Showing up regularly helps build trust, and trust leads to sales.
Final Thoughts
Marketing doesn’t have to cost the earth, or eat up all your time. These small steps, done consistently, can have a big impact. And if you’re ever ready to get some extra help, I’m here when you need.
👉 Need a hand? Let’s chat about your marketing goals.