Does social media work for small businesses?

Wondering if social media works for your small service-based business? Hell yes! Discover how showing up can transform you from best-kept secret to go

Does social media work for small businesses?

Hell yes!

Imagine you're a brilliant consultant offering expert advice, or perhaps a skilled therapist providing much-needed support. You've got the expertise, the passion, and the dedication. But there's one tiny problem - you’re the best-kept secret in your industry because no one knows you exist.

Well, that's what it's like when you're not using social media for your service-based business.

Why use social media?

Think of social media as the networking event that never ends - but you can attend in your slippers with a cup of tea in hand. The Dream!

Back to social media…It's your direct line to your target audience. Every. Single. Day. And the best part? It won't cost you a penny, aside from a bit of your time. It's a no-brainer.

Yes, I know - social media can feel like a crowded conference where everyone seems to be shouting over each other. But here's the thing: if you stand up and share something genuinely interesting, useful, or entertaining, people will stop and listen. Do it often enough and you’ll soon grow a loyal and interested audience just waiting for your next post!

Whether you're on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, YouTube, TikTok or that new platform everyone's buzzing about, showing up is the single biggest thing you can do to help your business be seen. It's how you become memorable. It's how you become the first port of call when someone needs that specialised service you offer.

But hold your horses! Simply showing up isn't the end of the race. (Whoa there, Nelly!) There's a bit more to it.

Here's what you need to do:

Show up: Consistency is key. Like your morning cuppa (mine’s a tea, thank you very much) or checking the weather before leaving the house, it's best done regularly.
Speak up: Share your message loud and clear. Don't whisper in the corner; step onto the stage.
Entertain and amuse: Sprinkle in some humour. A little chuckle goes a long way.
Inspire and inform: Share insights that make your audience think or see things differently.
Educate and instruct: Offer tips, tricks, and nuggets of wisdom that showcase your expertise.
Stay consistent: Keep at it. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a fabulous social media presence.

The perks of being social (without leaving your sofa)

Still not convinced? Let's talk about the perks. Social media isn't just about posting cute dog memes (although I love a good dog meme). It's about building relationships, establishing yourself as an expert, and making genuine connections with people who need what you offer.

Expand your reach: Think of social media as your virtual megaphone, allowing you to reach people far beyond your immediate network. I mean, how long would it take to reach, say, 1,000 people with a leaflet drop - and then it’s only in a given area!
Engage with your audience: It's a two-way street. You share valuable content, and your audience gives feedback, asks questions, and becomes part of your community.
Boost your credibility: Regularly sharing your knowledge positions you as the go-to expert in your field.
Cost-effective marketing: It's free (or low-cost if you opt for ads), making it ideal for small businesses with tight budgets.

The bottom line

How are potential clients ever going to know about you if you don't tell them? Social media isn't about shouting into the void - it's about starting conversations. It's about sharing your story, your value, and yes, sometimes your love for a good cup of Tetley tea.

So dust off that keyboard, put on your creative hat (I assume everyone has one of those), and step into the social media arena. Your audience is out there, waiting to hear from you.

Remember, it's not about being perfect - just get out there and do your thing!

Want to know more about social media for your business? What a coincidence - that's exactly what I chat about in my weekly newsletter - sign up here!