No Social Media? No Problem: Alternative Marketing Strategies for Your Business

Summary

In this video, Lydia Lee offers practical advice for entrepreneurs who want to market their businesses without relying on social media. She suggests three key strategies: leveraging existing networks by reaching out to friends, family, and colleagues; pitching to podcasts to build credibility and exposure; and starting an email newsletter to directly connect with an audience. Lydia emphasizes building one-on-one relationships, sharing your expertise through podcasts, and creating a personal communication channel through newsletters. These approaches can help entrepreneurs promote their businesses effectively while avoiding social media overwhelm.

Takeaways

• 😀 Social media isn't the only way to market your business. Alternatives exist that can be more effective for some entrepreneurs.
• 😀 If social media feels overwhelming or not aligned with your personality, it's okay to seek other marketing strategies.
• 😀 Start marketing with the community you already have—friends, family, colleagues, and existing connections.
• 😀 Personal outreach like sending emails or making phone calls can be a powerful way to let people know about your business.
• 😀 Building relationships one person at a time can be a more meaningful and effective way to grow your business.
• 😀 Asking for referrals from your existing network can help expand your reach and attract new clients.
• 😀 Look into local partnerships and collaborations with businesses that share a similar audience but offer complementary services.
• 😀 Podcasts are a great platform to pitch your expertise and connect with a new audience, even if you're a newer entrepreneur.
• 😀 Start pitching to smaller, newer podcasts where the hosts are open to featuring emerging voices and ideas.
• 😀 Building an email newsletter can offer a more intimate and consistent connection with your audience than social media posts.
• 😀 Consistency in sending out your newsletter is key—find a rhythm that works for you and your business.

Q & A

Is social media necessary for marketing a business?

No, social media is not absolutely necessary for marketing. There are alternative ways to connect with your audience and promote your business without being on social media.

What should new business owners focus on for marketing if they don't want to use social media?

New business owners should tap into their existing ecosystem, including friends, family, colleagues, and local communities. Personal outreach like sending emails or making phone calls can be an effective way to start building relationships and gaining clients.

How can building relationships help in marketing your business without social media?

Building relationships one-on-one, such as through personal emails, phone calls, or face-to-face meetings, can create trust and connections that lead to referrals and potential clients. These relationships are the foundation for long-term success.

What are 'watering holes' in the context of business marketing?

'Watering holes' is a term coined by business coach Pam Slim, referring to existing communities and networks that business owners are already a part of. These could include friends, colleagues, family, or social groups where you can start sharing your business.

How can you leverage local businesses and organizations to promote your business?

Partnering with local businesses or organizations that share similar values or target audiences can be an excellent way to promote your business. You can run co-hosted events, workshops, or other collaborative efforts to reach a wider audience.

What is the benefit of pitching yourself to podcasts as a way to market your business?

Pitching yourself to podcasts allows you to share your story and expertise with a new audience, which can help build credibility and attract clients. It’s a great alternative to social media and can be especially effective with newer podcasts that are looking for fresh content.

Can new business owners pitch themselves to podcasts?

Yes, new business owners can pitch themselves to podcasts. It's a common misconception that only seasoned business owners can be guests on podcasts. Many new podcast hosts are looking for fresh voices and unique stories to feature.

How can you find new podcasts to pitch to?

You can find new podcasts to pitch to by browsing the 'New and Noteworthy' section on platforms like iTunes, joining podcasting groups on Facebook, or using platforms like Podit to connect with podcast hosts who are looking for guests.

What is the advantage of starting a newsletter for your business?

Starting a newsletter allows you to communicate directly with your audience, bypassing social media algorithms. It's a more personal way to build trust, share valuable content, and promote your products or services without distractions.

What should you include in a newsletter to make it engaging?

A newsletter should include valuable content such as advice, tips, stories, and updates on your products or services. You can also include fun and personal content like music playlists or behind-the-scenes stories to keep the audience engaged.