All guides

The Best Ways to Advertise a Local Business

No single place is best for every business. Here is what each is good at, so you can match it to your goal and your budget.

Google Business Profile and reviews

The free listing that appears on Google Maps and in local searches. Fill it in completely, add real photos, and ask happy customers for reviews. Almost every local business should start here because it costs nothing but time.

Google search ads

You show up when someone searches for what you sell, and you pay when they click. This works well for businesses people call when they have a need now, such as plumbers, dentists and auto repair. It wastes money when the search phrases are too broad or the page people land on has no phone number.

Facebook and Instagram ads

You choose a circle around your business and show an offer to the people in it. Good for restaurants, salons, gyms and shops that want to stay in front of neighbors. You can start small and see results quickly.

Direct mail postcards

A postcard reaches the homes on the routes you choose, including people who do not search online. It suits businesses with homeowners and families nearby, and it is a strong choice for an opening. Give it an end date and a way to count it, such as a code word.

Email and text to your own customers

The cheapest place to spend. People who already know you are the most likely to come back. Collect addresses and phone numbers with permission and send an offer now and then.

Referral offers and loyalty rewards

You pay only when a customer brings someone in. Good for service businesses and anything that depends on trust.

Local radio and newspaper or magazine

These reach a wide local audience, but they work through repetition, so a small budget rarely stretches far enough. Keep them for when you can afford to run for several weeks.

Signs, banners and outdoor

A steady presence near your location for people who pass by every day. Useful if your location is easy to see and you have regular traffic.

Events and sponsorships

A booth, a team sponsorship or a school fundraiser puts your name in front of your community. It builds goodwill and is hard to count, so treat it as a long-term investment.

YouTube and short video

Good if you enjoy showing your work and can make a few simple videos. It takes more effort than the other places, so start there only when the basics are working.