Social Media Marketing for Local Businesses: A Beginner’s Guide

Gina Talarico
Oct 29, 2024
4 min read

So, you’re running a local business and wondering how to really make social media work for you. You’ve got a solid customer base but want to expand, reach more people in your community, and—let’s be real—generate some actual leads. Well, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s get into it! This beginner’s guide to social media marketing will show you exactly what to do to get your business seen and loved locally.

Step 1: Start with Your Profile—Yes, It Matters!

Your social media profile isn’t just a random corner of the internet; it’s your first impression and, let’s be real, your best shot at grabbing attention. Whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, or even LinkedIn, make sure your profile clearly states what you do, where you’re located, and how people can reach you.

Profile Essentials:

Clear Bio: A quick intro, like “Boutique bakery in downtown [City Name] serving up the best pastries in town!”
Contact Info: Address, phone number, and business hours—especially if you have a brick-and-mortar location.
Clickable Link: Use this to direct people to your website, booking page, or even a promotional offer.

If you’re serious about setting up your profile to drive local traffic and leads, check out The Ultimate Local Social Media Roadmap—it’s a full-on guide to optimizing your social media for more engagement and reach in your community. It’s like having a step-by-step manual for local business success online!

Step 2: Choose Your Social Platforms Wisely

Not every platform is created equal, and for local businesses, the key is to focus on where your community actually hangs out. If you’re targeting moms in your area, Facebook might be perfect. If you’re a cool café or boutique, Instagram is probably your best bet. And don’t sleep on Google My Business for search visibility!

Platform Breakdown:

Facebook: Great for broad local reach, reviews, and community-based engagement.
Instagram: Perfect for visual businesses like salons, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
LinkedIn: Ideal if you’re a B2B service provider (think local marketing firms, consultants).
Google My Business: Okay, it’s not technically social media, but listing here can do wonders for getting local traffic.

Pro Tip: Start with one or two platforms, get comfortable, and then expand if you have the bandwidth. You don’t need to be everywhere!

Step 3: Engage Like a Neighbor (Not a Salesperson)

When it comes to social media, nobody wants to feel like they’re being sold to 24/7. The key is engagement—meaning actually commenting, liking, and responding to your followers in a genuine way.

How to Engage Locally:

Respond to Comments: Even a simple “Thanks!” or “Can’t wait to see you!” goes a long way.
Participate in Local Hashtags: Try ones like #YourCityEats, #ShopLocal[CityName], or #YourCityEvents.
Feature Community Events or Local Partnerships: Share a post about that street fair happening downtown or the local fundraiser you’re sponsoring.

Step 4: Content, Content, Content (But Make It Local!)

Your content doesn’t have to be polished to perfection, but it does need to feel authentic and relevant to your community. Think of it as a way to show off your personality and showcase your expertise.

Content Ideas for Local Businesses:

Behind-the-Scenes: Show a peek behind the counter or share a quick “day in the life” clip. People love seeing the faces behind the business!
Customer Spotlights: If you’ve got a loyal customer who doesn’t mind a shout-out, feature them! It shows community appreciation.
Local Collaborations: Partner up with another local business for a giveaway or joint post—double the exposure, double the fun.

Stuck on what to post or how to make it resonate with your community? The Ultimate Local Social Media Roadmap is packed with content ideas specifically tailored for locally based businesses to reach their audience and generate leads online.

Step 5: Use Location Tags and Hashtags

Hashtags aren’t just for big brands or influencers—they’re actually super helpful for local visibility. By using location tags and relevant local hashtags, you increase your chances of popping up in local searches.

How to Make Hashtags and Tags Work for You:

Location Tags: Always tag your city or neighborhood in posts and stories.
Popular Local Hashtags: Think #ShopSmall[CityName], #EatLocal[CityName], #YourCityLife.
Custom Branded Hashtags: Create something unique to your business like #BestBakeryIn[City] and encourage customers to use it.

Extra Tip: Keep a list of hashtags that are popular locally, and rotate them to keep things fresh.

Step 6: Mix It Up with Stories and Live Content

Stories are where you can be a bit more casual, share updates, or even promote a flash sale. Lives, on the other hand, are great if you have something special going on, like a new product launch, event, or Q&A session.

Ideas for Stories and Lives:

Behind-the-Scenes Clips: Show off daily prep, a team member hard at work, or your morning routine opening the store.
Customer Q&A: Do a live where you answer common questions or explain your services.
Daily Specials or Promotions: Have a lunch special? Share it in your stories and tag your location.

Step 7: Use Ads to Boost Your Local Reach (When You’re Ready)

Organic reach is fantastic, but for local businesses, a little ad spend can go a long way. Social media ads allow you to target specific locations, interests, and even behaviors, making it easier to reach people in your community.

How to Start with Local Ads:

Use Facebook or Instagram: Both platforms let you target specific zip codes, so you’re only paying for views in your area.
Promote Events or New Offers: If you’re launching something new or hosting an event, ads can help you get the word out.
Test a Small Budget: Start small, see what works, and adjust as needed. Even $5 a day can drive some serious local traffic.

Bottom Line: Make Social Media Work For You, Not the Other Way Around

Social media marketing for local businesses isn’t about fancy strategies or overwhelming yourself. It’s about connecting with your community, showing your personality, and making it easy for people to find—and love—your business.

And if you’re looking to take your local social media game to the next level, The Ultimate Local Social Media Roadmap is the guide you’ve been waiting for. With strategies specifically designed for local businesses, it’s like having a social media coach in your back pocket.