7 Easy Ways to Grow Your Local Business

Running a business is exciting, but getting new customers takes a good plan. The good news? You don't need a lot of money, but you do need smart ideas to get noticed and keep people coming back. Here are seven easy ways to help your business grow!

1) Show Up on Google to Grow Your Local Business

When people search for a business like yours, you want to be the first thing they see!

✓ Make a free Google Business Profile

✓ Add pictures, your hours, and what you sell

✓ Ask happy customers to leave reviews

Example - people searching for "computer support and services" in Spring Lake will find ICS Data on Google.

2) Run Offers or Discounts for New & Returning Customers

People love a great deal! Give new customers a reason to try your business.

✓ Offer a discount on their first purchase

✓ Give a bonus for purchasing from you a 2nd, 3rd, or 4th time

✓ Post your offers to Google Business Profile, Facebook/Instagram, etc.

Example - Tommy's Car Wash offers "First wash FREE" if you sign up for a monthly membership.

3) Get Customers to Tell Their Friends

Happy customers are your best advertisers!

✓ Offer a referral bonus (like $$$ off when they bring a friend)

✓ Give loyal customers VIP perks

✓ Make it easy for people to share your business online

Example - Gordon Painting offers a referral program where customers receive $75 off their project if they refer a friend.

4) Run Facebook/Instagram Ads to Get Your Business Noticed

PRO-TIP: Create Ads Manager accounts, don't boost posts.

People scroll through social media every day - make sure they see your business while they're there! Running Facebook ads helps put your business in front of the right people at the right time.

✓ Target the right audience

✓ Use eye-catching imagery & videos

✓ Make it easy to take action

Example - Gimme's Par & Grill in Grand Rapids runs ads showing a group of friends having fun playing hitting on a Trackman Golf Simulator, reminding people they can golf year-round.

5) Make Your Website Easy to Navigate

Your website should help customers find what they need fast.

✓ Keep it simple - clear menus, easy-to-read text

✓ Show important info first - phone number, hours, and services to grow your local business

✓ Make booking or buying easy - add noticeable buttons for scheduling or shopping

Example - Schuil Coffee makes buying easy with clear product categories, a quick checkout, and a simple subscription option for automatic reorders.