Starting a business is exciting, but let's be honest, it can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to DIY marketing your business. If you're wearing all the hats and working with a small (or non-existent) budget, don't worry.
You don't need to do everything right away. You can start with the basics and expand as you go.
This guide will walk you through some of the minimum marketing steps to start building awareness, gaining customers, and setting the stage for long-term success — without breaking the bank.
1. Establish Your Online Real Estate
One of the first and most important steps to marketing your new business is securing its online presence. It's how people will find you, learn about you, and decide whether to contact or visit you.
Here are the steps to establish your online real estate.
Claim your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile is free and helps your business show up on Google Maps and in search results. Within the listing, you can list your business contact information, hours of operation, website, logo, photos, and more. You can also manage your Google Reviews.
Learn how to add or claim your Google Business Profile HERE.
Choose your social platforms
You don't need to be everywhere. Being on every trendy social media platform can quickly become overwhelming when you’re DYIng your marketing.
Pick one or two where your customers are likely to spend time. Facebook and Instagram are great places to start for most small, local businesses.
Secure a domain name
Even if you're not ready to build your website, claim your domain so you have it when you are ready. You can purchase a domain and build a website through various platforms like Wix, Squarespace, and Go Daddy.
Set Up a Simple Website
Your website doesn't need to be fancy. A clean, easy-to-navigate 1-page website with the essentials will give you what you need to start. Remember, a website is ever-evolving. You’ll continue to expand your site as your business grows.
Here is a list of the basic information that your 1-page website should have:
- Who you are
- What you offer
-Who you serve (your target audience)
- Where you're located
- How to contact you
- Links to your social media pages
Platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or Go Daddy make it easy and affordable to create a website, even if you're not tech-savvy.
2. Keep Business Cards Handy to Market Your New Business in Public
Yes, business cards are still a thing, especially in a small town like Bloomfield. They're perfect for networking, events, or casual encounters when someone asks, "What do you do?"
You can easily design your own on Canva and have them printed at a local print shop or print them online through Canva, Vistaprint, Moo, or others.
Include your name, business name, logo (if you have one), phone number, email, and website or social links.
*Pro Tip
Include a QR code on your business card that links to your website.
3. Post Consistently on Social Media + Engage Others
Marketing your new business on social media is one of the most cost-effective ways to reach your customers.
You don't need to post every day but aim to show up a few times a week. The key is consistency. Your posts should be a mixture of promotional, educational/informative, and even entertaining. Give your readers value, make them feel good, and let them get to know your brand.
Here are a few content topic ideas to get you started:
- Behind-the-scenes photos
- Highlight a product or service
- Share a customer testimonial
- Offer a quick tip or helpful resource
- Promote a local event you're attending
-Share a funny, relative, and appropriate meme with a little message from your brand
*Pro tip
Save time and reduce stress by batching your content. Set aside one day each week (or even once a month) to create several posts at once.
You can use free tools like Canva to design your graphics and Meta's (Facebook + Instagram) built-in scheduling tools to schedule everything in advance. That way, your content goes out consistently, even when you're too busy to think about social media.
Canva is a great free tool to make your posts look polished and professional. And batching helps you stay visible without being glued to your phone.
**Bonus tip
Don’t just post — engage! Take time to respond to comments on your posts, reply to messages, and interact with other local pages or businesses.
Like, comment, and share when it feels genuine. Engaging with others not only builds relationships but also boosts your visibility and helps grow your following organically. Social media is a two-way street; engagement is where the magic happens.
4. Collect Reviews Early
One of the fastest ways to build trust is through positive reviews. When you've helped your first customer or client, ask them to leave a review on your Google profile or Facebook page or email you a review to add to your website.
Make it easy by sending them a direct link and thanking them for their support. Good reviews are like gold — especially when you're just starting out.
5. Get Involved in the Community
Marketing isn't just digital. It's also about showing up in real life. If you’re a business in San Juan County, New Mexico, join the Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce to connect with other business owners, attend networking events, and gain exposure through community activities.
Being part of the community builds relationships that often lead to referrals and loyal customers.
Discover all the benefits of a Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce membership and join HERE.
6. Plan to Grow Later
As your business grows, your marketing will, too. Focus on these essentials and take it one step at a time. Keep track of what's working, and when your budget allows, consider investing in professional marketing support, running paid ads, or working with local resources like:
Start Simple, Stay Consistent
Remember, progress over perfection. You don't need a massive following or a fancy brand to get started. Focus on building relationships, showing up consistently, and sharing your story. The rest will come.
Need support or have questions? The Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce is here to help connect you with tools, resources, and other small business owners who've been right where you are.
We believe in your success, and we're cheering you on!
The Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center is open Monday through Friday, 8-4:30 p.m.
Contact us today at (505) 632-0880 or askus@bloomfieldchamber.info.