Social media isn’t just for big brands with huge budgets. Small businesses can use it to get noticed, build trust, and turn followers into customers. The trick is knowing what works and sticking to it.
If you’ve been posting without a plan and hoping for the best, it’s time to change that. Here are 10 social media marketing strategies you can start using today to grow your small business without wasting time or money.
1. Share More Behind-the-Scenes Content
People love to see the real side of your business. Show your workspace, your process, or a sneak peek of a product before it launches. Behind-the-scenes content makes followers feel connected and part of your journey.
Pro tip: Keep it authentic. A quick phone video or casual photo often works better than a polished studio shot.
2. Create Short, Engaging Videos
Short videos are king on platforms like Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts. They grab attention fast, tell a story in seconds, and keep people watching.
If you’re not sure how to start, try using an AI Promo Video Maker like Invideo AI. You can create professional-quality videos in minutes by simply typing your idea. The tool writes the script, picks visuals, adds music, and even includes subtitles. That means you can launch a video promo online without hiring a big production team.
3. Post at the Right Times
Even the best post will flop if no one sees it. Use your social media insights to find out when your audience is most active. It might be early mornings for some industries, or late evenings for others.
Once you know the sweet spot, schedule posts ahead of time so you never miss it.
4. Use Storytelling Instead of Just Selling
People scroll past plain sales posts, but they stop for stories. Instead of just saying “We have a sale,” tell the story behind your product. Maybe it’s how you came up with the idea or a customer’s experience with it.
Stories make your brand memorable, and they help customers see the value in what you offer.
5. Run Contests and Giveaways
A well-planned giveaway can bring a huge spike in followers and engagement. Offer something your ideal customer actually wants, like your product, a service package, or an exclusive experience.
Ask people to like, comment, or share your post to enter. This spreads your reach and gets more eyes on your business.
6. Use Hashtags Wisely
Hashtags are free exposure, but only if you use the right ones. Mix popular hashtags with niche ones that target your specific audience.
For example, instead of just using #smallbusiness, add hashtags like #DenverCoffeeShop or #EcoFriendlyBrand (if that fits your niche). This helps you reach people who are more likely to buy.
7. Show Customer Testimonials
Social proof is powerful. Share photos, quotes, or short videos from happy customers. It’s even better if customers create the content themselves—known as user-generated content.
This type of post not only builds trust but also shows your products in real life.
8. Collaborate with Local Influencers
You don’t need celebrity influencers. Partner with local creators or micro-influencers who have an engaged following in your area.
They can introduce your brand to their audience, and you can offer them free products, discounts, or a small payment in return.
9. Mix Educational Content with Promotion
People follow brands that help them, not just sell to them. Post quick tips, how-to videos, or useful facts related to your industry.
For example, if you run a bakery, share baking tips or quick recipes. Then mix in promotional posts to showcase your products. This balance keeps followers interested and engaged.
10. Invest in Paid Ads (Even on a Small Budget)
Paid ads on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok can reach thousands of potential customers for a low cost. Start small, test different ad styles, and see what works.
Video ads often perform best, so you might want to create a video promo online using a apps like video creator app to make it stand out. This way, you can get professional-quality content without spending weeks on production.
Final Thoughts
Social media marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with these 10 strategies, keep your content consistent, and always pay attention to what your audience responds to.
Whether you’re posting behind-the-scenes moments, telling your brand story, or running a local influencer campaign, the key is to stay authentic.
And remember, if you want to make high-quality videos without all the stress, tools like Invideo AI are game-changers. With an AI Promo Video Maker, you can create content that grabs attention, builds trust, and grows your small business faster than you think.
