Isn’t seeing your business – your “baby” – grow and become successful the best feeling in the world?

It sure is! But it doesn’t come easy. Growing a small business is one of the toughest challenges many small-business owners face. It’s a constant process that requires time, effort, and lots of patience to see results. But, when you do get results, and you see your business growing, there’s no better feeling.

To help you, we’ve come up with a few tips and tricks to help you grow your business.

01. Reach customers in more ways than one

Always find more than one way to reach your customers. For example, if you are a retailer with no online presence, consider setting up a webstore as another way to increase sales. You can also use email marketing and social media to keep in touch with your customers.

In the same way, if you’re an online-only business, consider using offline marketing through direct mail, flyers, and brochures to attract new clients. Combining both online and offline marketing results in increased brand awareness, access to a broader customer base, and more sales.

02. Focus on customer experience

“The customer always comes first.” Although an extremely common phrase in the businessnworld, it can be easily forgotten.

Always focus on giving your customers a positive experience with your business and brand. Fast growth depends on making your current and potential customers happy. Alter your marketing strategy to meet the needs of your target customer base and give your customers what THEY want, and you’ll be heading towards fast growth.

Create a business toolbox

Every company should have a business toolbox. A business toolbox is the documents and conceptual frameworks that business owners need to carry out their operations effectively. Your business toolbox should include:

• A business plan
• A marketing plan
• Accounting software to help produce financial statements and track your business activity

04. Create or improve your website

If you’re a small business with no online presence, the first step is to create a website or a webstore. With a website, you can:

• Connect to the world and have a 24/7 online presence
• Broaden your customer base
• Give credibility to your brand
• Advertise to a wider audience

If you have a website, maybe it’s time to improve it. You can improve your website through some of the following ways:

• Improve SEO – optimise your website by adding keywords
• Have an easy-to-order webstore
• Make sure your website is attractive, user-friendly, and engaging
• Create a good call to action

05. Leverage on Google

Google My Business is an excellent and free tool that small businesses can use to promote their business and engage with customers. Once you claim your Google My Business Page, you can:

• Add a business description
• Master the dashboard
• Post regularly
• Respond to all customer reviews (even bad ones)
• Keep the site up to date

06. Use Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool – never underestimate it! Another good strategy to build your business is to create a profile on the major social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc.). Creating a profile allows you to interact with more potential customers. Also, through a social media account, consumers can find your business faster and are more likely to recommend your business to their friends.

07. Make your blog shine

Blogging is an essential inbound marketing activity. Good blogging can drive traffic to your website, convert that traffic into leads, and achieve long-term results for your business. Blogs establish an online presence. So, to make your blog shine:

• Write content that is “evergreen” (always relevant)
• Conduct keyword research and optimise your blog to drive more traffic

08. Network

Network. Network. Network.

Another way to grow your business is to network with other entrepreneurs and business owners. Attend regular networking events and gain unique perspectives and insights from your peers. Alternatively, you can host your own event to get to know your customers and build relationships. The connections that come from attending and hosting networking events can be beneficial for years to come.

There you are – eight tips and tricks to help you grow your business. Whether it’s website development, digital marketing, or virtual assistance, our team is here for all your needs.

So, stay focused. Stay invested. And grow your business today!