In a recent discussion with Dan Paulson and Rich Veltre I addressed the issue of using video in your marketing. You can go right to the clip here.

I also addressed the greater question of, do you have to do lots of content marketing to build a successful business. The answer is no.

Using social media and “content marketing” to market your business is best. You produce content, the gets attention and builds trust. This community you build is available to purchase from you over time.

Gary Vaynerchuck refers to this as Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook in his book. Lamar Tyler refers to this as Traffic, Sales and Profit in his namesake community.

Video, humanizes your brand and should be used if you can. But it’s not a must.

However, you don’t have to use video NOR do you have to use social media to build a thriving business.

As long as you’re building trust and getting attention for your business, you’ll be fine. Social media and/or “content marketing” just makes it easier to reach your ideal customer.

Here’s ways to not use social media, to still generate leads for your business.

Ways to Grow Your Business Without Social Media

Local Marketing

Local marketing is about targeting customers in your immediate area.

Use Traditional Advertising

Billboards, flyers, and local newspapers still work. They can reach people who aren’t online. Place ads where your target audience frequents.

Sponsor Local Events

Sponsoring local events is a great way to get your business noticed. It shows community support and builds brand recognition. Choose events that align with your business values.

Collaborate with Local Businesses

Partner with other local businesses. Create joint promotions or host events together. This expands your reach to their customer base as well.

Event Marketing

Speaking at Events

Public speaking boosts your credibility. It positions you as an expert in your field.

Find Speaking Opportunities

Look for local conferences and seminars. Many are eager for knowledgeable speakers. Offer to speak on topics related to your business.

Prepare Engaging Presentations

Make sure your presentation is engaging. Use visuals and real-life examples. Practice until you’re confident.

Network with Attendees

After speaking, network with attendees. Exchange business cards. Follow up with them to build relationships.

Commenting on LinkedIn

I know it’s social media but….

Commenting on LinkedIn Posts

LinkedIn is a professional network. Commenting on posts can be more effective than posting your own content.

Engage with Influencers

Find posts by industry influencers. Add thoughtful comments. This gets you noticed by their followers.

Be Consistent

Comment regularly. Consistency builds recognition. Over time, people will start to see you as an expert.

Share Insights and Opinions

Share your insights and opinions. This shows your expertise and adds value to the conversation.

Attending Networking Events

Networking events are perfect for making connections.

Networking Groups

Join Local Networking Groups

Find local networking groups. Chambers of commerce often host these events.

Be Prepared

Bring plenty of business cards. Have a clear introduction prepared. Know what you want to achieve from the event.

Follow Up

After the event, follow up with new contacts. A quick email or a coffee meeting can cement the connection.

Being Active in Your Local Business Communities

Active involvement in local business communities pays off.

Join Your Chamber of Commerce

Join your local chamber of commerce. Participate in their events. This shows you’re serious about local business.

Attend Community Meetings

Attend community meetings and town halls. Be vocal about business issues. This positions you as a community leader.

Volunteer for Committees

Volunteer for committees or boards. This increases your visibility and influence.

Word of Mouth

Word of Mouth

Never underestimate the power of word of mouth.

Encourage Customer Referrals

Encourage your satisfied customers to refer others. Offer incentives for referrals.

Provide Excellent Service

Excellent service gets people talking. Aim to exceed customer expectations.

Ask for Testimonials

Ask happy customers for testimonials. Display them prominently on your website and marketing materials.

Host Workshops and Classes

Hosting workshops and classes is another great way to attract new customers.

Offer Value

Provide valuable content in your workshops. Make sure attendees leave with actionable insights.

Promote Locally

Promote your workshops through local channels. Use flyers, local radio, and community boards.

Collect Contact Information

Collect contact information from attendees. Follow up with them to convert them into customers.

Trade Shows

Participate in Trade Shows

Trade shows offer exposure to a large audience.

Choose the Right Trade Shows

Select trade shows that match your industry. Ensure they attract your target audience.

Create an Attractive Booth

Design an eye-catching booth. Offer freebies to attract visitors.

Engage with Attendees

Engage with attendees. Demonstrate your products and answer questions. Collect contact information for follow-up.

Partnerships

Building Partnerships

Building partnerships can greatly expand your reach.

Identify Potential Partners

Identify businesses that complement yours. Reach out to them with partnership proposals.

Offer Mutual Benefits

Ensure the partnership benefits both parties. This fosters a long-lasting relationship.

Promote Each Other

Promote your partner’s business to your customers. Encourage them to do the same.

Get Involved in Community Service

Community service builds goodwill and brand recognition.

Organize Charity Events

Organize charity events or participate in existing ones. This shows your business cares about the community.

Encourage Employee Participation

Encourage your employees to volunteer. This strengthens team spirit and public image.

Highlight Your Efforts

Publicize your community service efforts. Use local media and your website.

Media Attention

Leverage Local Media

Local media can offer excellent exposure.

Build Relationships with Journalists

Build relationships with local journalists. They can feature your business in articles and news segments.

Submit Press Releases

Regularly submit press releases about your business activities. This keeps your business in the news.

Offer Expert Commentary

Offer your expertise to local media. They often need experts for commentary on relevant topics.

Host Community Events

Hosting community events puts your business in the spotlight.

Plan Engaging Events

Plan events that engage the community. It could be a fair, a contest, or an open house.

Promote Widely

Promote your events through local channels. Ensure the community knows about it.

Gather Feedback

Gather feedback during and after the event. This helps improve future events.

Conclusion

Social media isn’t the only way to grow your business. Local marketing, public speaking, networking, and community involvement are powerful alternatives. Focus on building real, meaningful connections. These efforts pay off in lasting customer relationships and business growth.