It is undeniable that local businesses and small enterprises have the ones that have been hit the hardest by the pandemic and its consequences. Larger companies might have had the budget to bring their operations online, invest in the right software, and complete their digital transformation in no time. 

Instead, small businesses, which rely the most on their community and customer base, had to adapt to the new changes fast and in any way they could. However, moving forward, it is important to consider what changes will remain permanent and adapt to those. And, for sure, handing out flyers won’t be the best marketing strategy! Here’s what you could do instead.

Use Local SEO

If you have a website, local SEO can help you become more visible to potential customers. This is a type of search engine optimization strategy specific to your local area, which means that your business will become more likely to appear at the top of Google’s result page for local searches. 

This can be an excellent starting point for businesses looking to create or expand their customer base. Indeed, local SEO will make your business visible to customers that are in the area and actively looking for the services you are offering. You can implement SEO through blog posts, landing pages, and social media handles. 

Engage with the Local Community

Undeniably, this is a challenging moment for everybody. In the same way that you could use some help, other businesses and families in the area might be in need. So, instead of just offering a product to buy, make sure you give something to the community first. 

You could do so by organizing volunteering or charitable initiatives for anybody in the community who is in need of help. Alternatively, you could consider teaming up with other local shops to create a discount program for the local community. Remember, at the moment, the local shops in the area might not be the enemy: they are also trying to survive, and their customers have less to spend. 

Create a Virtual Community

Keeping the conversation with your audience going is crucial. Advertising your local business without being able to open your doors to the public can be extremely difficult. However, luckily, technology – social media channels, in particular – are on our side. 

Therefore, if you cannot speak directly with your audience, make sure you do so through direct messages and chats! Start by creating a community of Instagram, Facebook, or even Reddit, so your audience knows that you are still operating and you will be open again soon – don’t forget to keep up with the messages and keep the conversation going!

Create a QR Code

Lastly, if you are looking to use a minimalist by highly effective marketing strategy, make sure you get a QR code from software such as Flowcode. You can then print or share your QR code on products and advertising – a great way to encourage customers to get to know your business more. Everything they need to get to know your business is their smartphones – no need for remembering a website or keeping a business card. So, your touchless marketing will be entirely safe and effective!