7 Tips: How Do I Make My Company Known Locally?

Many entrepreneurs and small business owners want to make their companies more noticeable in local markets. In this article, we’ve put together 13 helpful suggestions for improving your business’s local visibility.

How Can Owners Promote Their Businesses in Local Areas?

The most successful business owners know how important it is for a company to have a strong local reputation. Getting noticed in local markets—and having staying power—creates new business opportunities.

A strong strategy is the best way to help a small business stand out in the local community. As small business owners figure out what works best for them, they can devise a consistent, savvy strategy for getting the local word out. The goals here are:

To attract attention to the business
To get the business noticed by both customers and other companies
To make the business grow in local popularity

Local popularity can go a long way in leading to more widespread, and even national, recognition. Here are 13 local marketing strategies that will take your small business to even greater heights in the local area.

1) Find a Niche

Even in the local vicinity, oversaturation can be an issue. Therefore, it is more important than ever to differentiate a small business from its competitors. Companies can stand out by finding a specific focus, offering unique products that many other companies do not have, or finding a new twist on an old idea.

An Example

Julie opens a health foods store in Ventura Beach. When she finds out that there are 34 other stores categorized as “healthy,” she knows she needs to set her new venture apart. After doing some local research and speaking with many healthy young people in town, Julie decides to focus on something that there is a surprising absence of smoothies. Julie’s Organic Smoothies is a hit because Julie’s choice of a niche matched the area’s demand. Julie has plans to add to the menu later, but for now, it is smooth sailing.

Finding a specific category for a small business is vital. Conducting research and lining that category up with demand helps set small companies up for success.

2) Use the Power of the Web

Small business experts agree that one of the best ways for a company to become locally known is through the internet. Although this might confuse some, since the internet is decidedly global and not local, this step is essential.

Google Business and Other Platforms

The web is home to valuable local business listings and profiles. Yelp, Google, Trustpilot, Bing, and many more offer free homes for the business’s contact information. The key is for small businesses to claim these profiles and keep them active and updated. Once business owners have claimed and updated all of these sites, they should run a test. Owners can search for the town and the service or goods the business offers. Their company should pop up everywhere. This strategy is helpful for visibility and helps new and prospective customers to trust the business.

Social Media

Social media platforms are not just for individuals’ photos and memories. These sites offer another free way to get the name of a small business out into the local vicinity. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and more provide businesses with easily accessible profiles. Using photos, videos, stories, and posts with local content and local tags can quickly create a small-town buzz.

3) Add a Face to the Business

Especially in smaller local markets, customers like to know the person behind the business. Many people prefer the personal touch of a small business to larger companies, and business owners can use this to their advantage.

Building Trust and Authenticity

When customers see the literal face of the business, they gain more trust in the products or services. Sales increase when business owners go one step further and enter the community. Meeting the local people and getting to know them changes the local perception of the business and its owner. Put up local ads with the business owner’s picture or even photos of some employees. Join community functions and games, or sponsor a little league team. The community will sincerely appreciate these actions, and soon the business will be a local staple.

4) Provide Samples to the Local Market

Entrepreneurs should recognize that certain strategies are possible in small local markets that are not possible on a larger scale. Giving out free samples is one of these valuable local strategies.

Location Matters

Many business owners focus on the product when giving out product samples. Therefore, the sample must be large enough to have some value but small enough that the company isn’t losing too much. However, the location where employees give samples is even more important.

For example, if a local cookie bakery hires two college students to give out cookies on a random sidewalk in town, the effects will be minimal. But if the students visit the busiest corner of town at rush hour, and one handles foot traffic while the other deals with cars, then local exposure will increase.

5) Volunteer for Local Good Causes

Community members with big hearts get noticed. While business is our focus here, there are other aspects to living in a small local area. One of these is recognizing that everyone is a part of the whole, and another is being willing to sacrifice time to help others.

When business owners support local causes, their businesses bring in more customers. Writing a check is one thing, but showing up to clean up litter or raise money for a less fortunate family is much more noticeable.

Making an Impact

Local organizations such as shelters and food kitchens always need help, and when small business owners give back, they create more business and feel good about themselves. When small businesses become known as institutions in small towns, it is usually not only because they offer a valuable product or service. It is because they give back to the town, and vice-versa.

6) Encourage and Solicit Customer Reviews

It is rare for a new small business not to make mistakes or have a list of things to work on. Therefore, gathering positive and negative feedback is crucial for all small businesses. Encouraging local customers to leave reviews lets them know that the owner cares about their experience and wants to improve it if possible.

Local Reviews

Local areas are excellent places to solicit reviews and get company feedback off to a promising start. With fewer businesses to compete with, small companies should be able to earn a good number of reviews. Business owners and managers should not only take reviews to heart but respond by thanking people online or in person. When customers see their suggestions taken seriously, they trust the business and return often.

An Example

Nick recently opened NIC-SURF, a small surf shop in Encinitas, CA., specializing in boards and lessons. He encouraged Thomas to leave a review after his lesson. Thomas loved the lesson but noted that 30 minutes was far too short. He felt he would’ve learned more with an hour of lessons, but that was not an option.

Nick thanked Thomas for the feedback online and encouraged him to come back. Nick explained that as a new business owner, he was still learning the ropes and trying to pack in as many lessons as possible to help more people learn to ride waves.

Thomas returned a week later and found that he was able to sign up for a 30-minute lesson, an hour-long lesson, or a two-hour lesson. Of course, he happily pays more to sign up for the hour lesson, and on the way out, he buys a $550 surfboard because he now loves surfing. Nice work, Nick!

Use Reviews Practically

Small business owners often forget the last point on reviews. The business should use its good to excellent reviews to bring in more business. They can be tweeted, pinned, and posted to show the local area, and the world, that customers are enjoying the services or goods of the business. Use them to their utmost advantage since they result from hard work.

7) Use Local SEO Content

By now, most businesses know that quality SEO content can drive up business visibility and exposure. Mixing in local words with SEO content can help break into new markets. When prospective customers search out businesses online, they often enter local town names, city names, and other landmarks to find local businesses. They even use the word “local” and its synonyms. Using specialized SEO to target the local vicinity can boost exposure, and when the business is ready to explode nationally, it isn’t hard to reconfigure the message.

Voice Search SEO

While SEO writing is still relevant, it is vital for all businesses to stay on the cutting edge. These days, many customers make a request while verbally searching for a service or product. For example, when speaking to a smart home device, there are certain commonly used words, such as “Hey Google,” “Hey Siri,” or “Alexis.” Therefore, focusing on new keywords and targeting SEO voice searches is another way to break into the local market.

8) Deliver Newsletters

The internet is one of the first resources we consider when discussing company exposure, but many small businesses still find local success through newsletters. Customers are often open to picking up a professionally created ad when they visit. This concise newsletter can feature news, deals, and even coupons and can be given out anywhere. Many wise small business owners keep a stack of newsletters and business cards in their cars or wallets.

Online Newsletters

Some businesses find the best mix of new and old strategies through an emailed newsletter. Business owners should do a little research or contact an SEO writing professional for tips on avoiding the spam folder. However, a succinct email about future happenings can remind locals about the business and entice them into returning.

9) Send Mail

Younger generations, from Generation Z to Millennials, welcome direct mail to their PO Boxes and homes. Why? Because direct mail is a tangible alternative to the web, it is also decidedly local. As a result, a business can target specific repeat and prospective customers for a low expense.

Direct mail can be an excellent way to make a company more locally recognizable, but it comes with a caveat. Many people are dismissive of receiving ads in the mail; if a business sends too much correspondence, it could work against them. So send mail sparingly and ensure it contains a valuable and timely message.

10) Frequent Local Events

In addition to charity events and softball games, new business owners should frequent local markets, trade fairs, conventions, and conferences. Networking with locals at these events strengthens the company’s reputation, and there is less competition locally than at national events.

While it is impossible to attend every local event while running a business, take the time to schedule a few events for every quarter. Then, the locals will appreciate it, the business will appreciate it, and the business owners might just learn something.

11) Purchase Local Ad Space

Traditional marketing and advertising materials still promote solid growth. While Google ads can help with web traffic searches already tuned into the business, newspapers, and magazines are also strong options. Usually, local ads are more affordable than national ads, too.

Fliers and Posters

It may appear antiquated, but an inexpensive batch of clear, well-designed fliers or posters can promote local visibility. When fliers advertise a soft opening, a grand opening, or a special limited-time deal, they become even more coveted.

12) Create Interesting Video Content

When many small businesses think of Facebook Ads, they immediately envision photos. However, brief, professional videos that focus on the local community can drive up business.

For example, let’s say Jim has started a small umbrella business in one of Seattle’s neighborhoods. His first video is lighthearted and informational. Over two minutes, Jim demonstrates the umbrellas he sells while walking in the rain. The video becomes popular first because Jim makes funny comments about the rain, but that is not all. The video is helpful because Jim shows five streets that offer various sources of shelter from the rain. Jim, therefore, shows his local knowledge and his concern for his customers. The video is so popular that Jim’s clients request a “Part Two.”

Videos like Jim’s show his company as valuable to the community. At the end of the video, Jim shares his business’s contact information, and guess what? His business sees a large spike in sales, and it only costs him $2 a week to run the ad on Facebook. Nice work, Jim!

13 Brand the Business

Small local businesses sometimes overlook brand identity. While larger national chains focus on their brand and logo, smaller companies target the local community in other ways. However, every small business should use its brand to connect with the community and enhance recognition.

Companies should settle on a brand identity early on and maintain it consistently. What does the small business stand for? What makes it different than its competitors? What should local clients associate with the business?

An Example

Although there are ice cream shops everywhere, the Vanilla Bean enjoyed a strong opening in Huntington Beach last year. This strong start was due in part to their clear branding. The Vanilla Bean is an organic, dairy-free ice cream shop focusing on clean ingredients and low-calorie counts. As a result, their young, active target market has fallen head over heels for the low-fat and low-sugar fare they serve. Likewise, the Bean’s logo, a cone of ice cream surrounded by plants, looks great on the t-shirts they sell and communicates a clear message. With clear branding, the Vanilla Bean’s success knows no bounds.

A Local Presence

Many entrepreneurs wonder how they can get their small businesses noticed locally. We hope this list shows new small businesses that local recognition is well within their hands. Making a company known locally requires knowledge and hard work, but it is worth the effort when the company becomes a successful local institution.

Best Free Payroll Software for Small Businesses and Startups in 2025

Find the best free payroll software options for small businesses and startups in 2025 with essential tools and flexible features. Compare user-friendly platforms offering global payments, tax calculations, employee portals, and cloud access at no cost.

What Services Does a California Business Lawyer Provide?

A California business lawyer helps protect your company by providing legal guidance on structure, taxation, contracts, and compliance. Their services ensure you avoid costly mistakes and navigate disputes, allowing you to focus on growth.

Where Can I Find a Business Lawyer?

Find a skilled business lawyer to navigate legal matters like contracts, trademarks, and liability issues. Protect your company with expert legal advice and support.

What Are the Requirements for a Business Contract Termination Letter?

A contract termination letter must clearly state the reason for termination, reference the original contract, and follow required notice procedures. Ensuring proper documentation and adherence to contract terms helps prevent legal disputes and wrongful termination claims.

Are Verbal Contracts Binding in California?

A verbal contract can be legally binding in California, but proving its terms in court is often difficult. Written agreements provide stronger legal protection, reducing risks of disputes and misunderstandings.

Where Can I Find a Business Lawyer Near Me?

Find a business lawyer by seeking referrals, researching credentials, and ensuring they specialize in your industry’s legal needs. Schedule consultations to assess their expertise, compatibility, and pricing structure before making a final decision.

What Is the Statement of Information and When Is It Required?

A Statement of Information is a required filing for California corporations and LLCs, providing key business and leadership details. Filing deadlines vary, requiring annual or biennial submissions to maintain compliance and avoid penalties.

What Is Indemnity and How Does It Apply to Insurance Contracts?

Indemnity protects individuals and businesses from financial loss by ensuring compensation for damages under legal agreements, including insurance contracts. Various indemnity policies cover liability, property damage, and professional risks, with terms defining coverage limits and exclusions.

What Is Gross Profit and How Is It Calculated in Financial Statements?

Gross profit represents the revenue remaining after deducting the cost of goods sold, helping businesses assess production efficiency and pricing strategies. Calculating gross profit involves subtracting direct expenses from revenue, providing insights into cost control and financial performance.

What Is Gross Income and How Does It Differ From Net Income?

Gross income includes all earnings before deductions, while net income is what remains after taxes and expenses. Understanding these figures helps determine tax obligations, loan eligibility, and overall financial health.

What Is Beneficial Ownership Information and Why Is It Important for Compliance

Beneficial ownership information helps prevent financial crimes by increasing transparency in corporate structures. Businesses should stay informed on reporting requirements to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with evolving regulations.

What Is Arbitration and How Does It Resolve Disputes?

Arbitration resolves disputes by allowing a neutral third party to make binding decisions, offering privacy and efficiency over traditional litigation. Businesses and individuals prefer arbitration for its speed, cost savings, and adaptability, ensuring enforceable outcomes across various legal frameworks.

What Is a Corporation, and How Does It Differ From an LLC?

A corporation is a separate legal entity owned by shareholders, while an LLC offers flexible management and pass-through taxation. Corporations require stricter compliance and structured oversight, whereas LLCs provide fewer formalities and adaptable ownership structures.

How Do You Incorporate a Business, and What Are the Benefits?

Incorporating a business creates a separate legal entity, protecting personal assets and offering potential tax advantages. This process enhances credibility, simplifies ownership transfer, and provides growth opportunities while requiring compliance with specific regulations.

How Do You Get an LLC, and What Are the Benefits of Forming One?

An LLC provides liability protection, tax flexibility, and management freedom for business owners. Follow seven simple steps to establish one efficiently.

How Do You Start a Business, and What Are the Legal Requirements?

Starting a business in California requires careful planning, legal compliance, and financial preparation. From selecting a business structure to obtaining permits, tax registration, and funding, each step is crucial for long-term success.

How Do Accrual Accounting and Cash Accounting Differ in Financial Management?

Accrual accounting records transactions when they are earned, while cash accounting records them when money changes hands. Choosing the right method impacts taxes, financial planning, and cash flow management for businesses.

Do I Need a Permit to Operate a Vending Machine?

A vending machine business requires permits, including a business license, EIN, and compliance with state and federal regulations. Proper location approval, ADA compliance, and product labeling are essential for legal operation and profitability.

Are There Grants Available to Start a Business?

Government and private grants provide funding to help entrepreneurs start businesses, with eligibility varying by industry, location, and business type. Opportunities include federal programs, state initiatives, and private grants supporting startups, research, and minority-owned businesses.

What Is a Stock Corporation in California – General Requirements?

A stock corporation in California raises capital by selling shares, granting investors ownership and voting rights while maintaining limited liability. These corporations, classified as C or S, follow specific legal steps, including filing Articles of Incorporation and drafting corporate bylaws.

Is a Contract Valid Only if It Is in Written Form?

A contract can be legally binding whether written or verbal, but some agreements, such as real estate deals, require written documentation. A valid contract must include clear terms, mutual agreement, legal capacity, consideration, and intent to create enforceable obligations.

What Is a Cash Receipt and Why It Matters for Business Transactions

A cash receipt records the exchange of cash during a transaction, detailing the amount, parties involved, and purchase specifics. Maintaining accurate cash receipts supports tax reporting, financial management, and dispute resolution while ensuring compliance with audits.