Every business needs customers to survive and grow. To connect with new customers, you’ve got to get your name out there. But, there are a lot of ways to advertise your business:
Should you be on social media?
Should you focus everything on Google?
Why are your kids telling you to advertise on TikTok?
This guide will walk you through how to advertise online, offline tactics you might consider, and how to make the most of your budget—without wasting time or money.
How to Advertise Your Business on Google
Google is one of the best places to advertise your business online.
1. Create a Google Business Profile
A Google Business Profile (GBP) is your listing on Google Maps and in local search results.
It’s free to set up, and once you verify ownership, you can edit your address, hours, photos, and more. This helps local customers find you at the exact moment they’re looking for your services.
To get started, set up a Google Business Profile.
2. Update Your Website
Your website is often the first place people learn about you.
Keep it welcoming, easy to navigate, and reflective of your brand. If your site is clunky or outdated, visitors might leave before they ever see what you offer.
Check out this Guide on How to Build a Small Business Website.
3. Take Advantage of Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Search engine optimization, or SEO, helps your site show up higher on Google.
That might mean writing helpful blog posts and other valuable content, including popular keywords, and making sure your site loads quickly. While SEO can take time, it can also be a steady source of new leads.
Check out our Beginners Guide to Search Engine Optimization
4. Start a Business Blog
A blog lets you share knowledge, answer common questions, and showcase your expertise.
It can also help with SEO by adding fresh content to your site. If you’re a plumber, for example, write about frequent plumbing problems and solutions—people searching for answers may find your blog first.
Learn ways to drive traffic to your website, including with a blog, in this guide.
5. Promote Your Content
Creating great content isn’t enough if nobody sees it.
Share your posts via social media, email newsletters, or small paid ads. The goal is to get your content in front of the right audience.
Learn how to get more leads for your business with this guide to paid advertising.
6. Try Google Ads
Want a quicker way to the top of search results? Google Ads places you above organic listings.
You pay per click, but you also get instant visibility—perfect if you want immediate leads while you build your SEO in the background.
If you would like to know more about Google Ads, contact us at Scorpion.
How to Promote Your Business Using Online Reviews & Directories
7. Create Listings on Major Directories
Platforms like Google and Yelp are popular starting points for people looking for local services.
Claim your listing, add basic details, and keep everything consistent with your website.
Set up a free Yelp profile or Google My Business account.
8. Improve Your Directory Listings
Don’t just stop at basic info—upload photos, include business hours, and mention specialties.
A detailed (and accurate!) profile can rank higher and draw more attention.
9. Get More Customer Reviews
Online reviews (especially on Google or Yelp) are modern-day word-of-mouth.
Offer great service, politely ask happy customers to leave feedback, and watch your reputation soar.
Check out these guides on getting the most out of customer reviews and Google Reviews.
10. Respond to Reviews
Whether you receive a glowing testimonial or a tough critique, take a moment to reply.
It shows you care about customer experience and can turn a negative situation into a positive one.
How to Get Your Business Out There Using Social Media
Expand your brand on social media with these tactics:
11. Prioritize Facebook
With billions of users, Facebook can be a goldmine for new customers.
Your Facebook Business Page should include accurate business information and relevant content so customers who click on ads know how to reach you.
Create a Facebook page for your business.
12. Connect on LinkedIn
A LinkedIn business profile allows customers, partners, and even prospective employees to see your professional side. You can also join LinkedIn groups or share articles to grow your network.
You can even link back to relevant content on your website.
Sign up for LinkedIn and set up a business page.
13. Upload Content to YouTube
Videos can be a powerful way to showcase your brand.
Create a YouTube channel, post demos or how-to content, and let potential customers see what you’re all about.
Create a free YouTube channel.
14. Advertise on YouTube
Want even more visibility? YouTube is the second largest search engine after Google.
YouTube ads can play before or during videos in your niche, reaching a huge audience. Just be sure your ad is engaging enough that people won’t skip it immediately.
Learn how to make the most of YouTube advertising.
15. Engage Your Audience on Instagram
Instagram is all about visuals. Show product highlights, behind-the-scenes snaps, or short Reels to build trust and humanize your brand.
Set up a free business Instagram account.
16. Share on X
Formerly known as Twitter, X can help you interact with customers in real time.
Watch for trending topics or hashtags in your industry, then join the conversation.
17. Try Pinterest
Pinterest is visual, too, but with a focus on curated inspiration.
Pin photos that link back to your site—ideal for retailers, designers, or any business that benefits from strong visuals.
Set up a Pinterest account now!
18. Give TikTok a Shot
Known for fun, snappy videos, TikTok can introduce you to a younger, highly engaged audience.
Show quick tips, do short skits, or share day-in-the-life clips about your business.
19. Join Online Communities
Be helpful in Facebook groups, LinkedIn groups, Reddit threads—wherever your customers might be.
Offering genuine advice and solutions (without constantly pitching) can build trust.
Sign up for Twitter, LinkedIn, or Reddit.
20. Collaborate with Influencers
Influencers already have an audience’s attention.
Partner with someone relevant to your niche, whether that’s a local celebrity or a recognized expert, to expand your reach and credibility.
Search social media using business hashtags for influencers in your industry.
21. Invest in Social Media Ads
Social ads can be laser-targeted to users who match your ideal customer profile—helping you get more followers and leads.
Learn more about paid and other social in this Beginners Guide To Social Media.
How to Market Your Business in Your Community
22. Get Local Press
Reach out to local newspapers, blogs, or TV stations about events or milestones related to your business.
Even a small feature can drum up excitement.
23. Create Partnerships
Find non-competitive businesses that serve the same clients.
Cross-promote services, bundle deals, or team up for local events—everybody wins.
24. Network
Attend local mixers, join your chamber of commerce, or meet other business owners in your area.
Personal connections can help you learn, grow, and discover fresh opportunities.
25. Attend Local Events
Look for fairs, festivals, or conferences. You can meet customers face-to-face, plus get a feel for what people in your community really need.
26. Host an Event
Bring people together at your location—an open house, workshop, or charity gathering.
It’s a hands-on way for the community to see what you’re all about.
27. Sponsor Local Events
When the event is being advertised in the community, so is your business.
Sponsoring a high school sports team or local fundraiser is a great way to increase name recognition and build goodwill.
28. Donate to Charity
Contributing time, money, or goods to a local cause shines a positive light on your business and lets you connect with like-minded folks.
29. Try Direct Mail
Postcards, flyers, and letters can still be effective for certain types of businesses.
Direct mail is a tangible reminder of what you offer.
30. Advertise Offline in Your Local Area
Place ads in newspapers, magazines, on the radio, and even on television to promote your business
How to Connect Directly with Your Customers
31. Run Email Marketing Campaigns
Most people check their email daily. Use newsletters or occasional promotions to stay in touch, highlight offers, and encourage repeat business.
Start an email marketing campaign with Scorpion.
32. Use Chat on Your Website
Make it as easy as possible for website visitors to get the help they need.
Scorpion Connect with AI Chat can be added right on your website and is always there to answer questions, schedule appointments, and encourage visitors to take the next step.
Integrate chat on your website.
33. Use Text Messaging
Many consumers read and respond to texts much faster than emails.
Send reminders, thank them for choosing your business, and even make it possible for people to send you texts straight from your website with Scorpion Connect.
Get text messaging for your business.
Bonus Round: Partner with Pros
Sometimes, advertising a business online (and offline) can get complicated. Partnering with experts like Scorpion helps you navigate digital ads, website creation, and more—so you can focus on what you do best.
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