Best Marketing Strategies for Small Business in a Changing Technology Landscape

Given the ever-changing technology landscape, small businesses can have a hard time figuring out the most effective marketing strategies. So, we have asked the amazing CarolRoth.com contributor network of business owners, experts, advisors and entrepreneurs to find out what they currently think is the best marketing strategy for small businesses. Their responses are presented below, in no particular order.

You may notice some similar ideas listed below, but I kept them separate, as something in the way one is framed may resonate differently with you.

*Please note that all information listed below was submitted by our community members as a courtesy. Intercap Merchant Partners, LLC, Carol Roth and our affiliates neither endorse nor recommend any of the following and should you purchase from or hire anyone, please ask for references and do your due diligence first.

1. Gain Exponential Exposure

Moving forward, changing from a competitive mindset to collaboration proves compelling. On social sites like LinkedIn, find posts to share with your following. Connect with those who create the posts you enjoy. Make it a daily habit to review the list of people who share your posts and reciprocate. Consider the premium level membership, as it recommends new people with whom to connect. Making new connections daily provides greater visibility. Ultimately, new offers arise, empowering growth.

Thanks to: Elinor Stutz of Smooth Sale.

2. Education & Engagement

The best marketing strategy for small businesses today is building trust through education and engagement. In my field, offering value through webinars, informative content, and personalized digital interactions can set a business apart. For example, using technology to create virtual consultations or share expert insights on social platforms builds credibility and fosters relationships. Staying approachable and innovative helps businesses to effectively connect with clients.

Thanks to: Dr. Barbara Sparacino of The Aging Parent Coach.

3. Slide Into Their Social Posts

The best marketing strategy for small businesses today? Keep an eye on posts where people mention related products or services and jump into the conversation with fun, helpful comments. It works because people love when a brand feels real and pays attention. Plus, it’s like free advertising—you show up, make someone smile or solve a problem, and suddenly everyone knows your name. It’s cheap, it’s easy, and it keeps your business trendy and ready for whatever’s next!

Thanks to: Devin Miller of Miller IP.

4. Targeting Local Markets

A strategy that has proven successful for us is targeting local markets. As technology advances, national competition becomes even stronger. During the pandemic, for instance, the shift to remote work and services brought many more companies online, flooding the internet and making it harder to compete on a national level. But by targeting specific cities, we’ve been able to focus our marketing efforts on the areas where we can make the biggest impact for our business.

Thanks to: Thomas Samuels of Trade Show Displays Atlanta.

5. 3rd Party Endorsement w/PR

A 3rd party endorsement from a client in an article in a media outlet goes much further in gaining trust, generating leads, and garnering thought leadership than just placing an ad. Client mentions are more credible and validate your product or service through the positive experiences of others. Consumers tend to trust the opinions of independent reviewers, experts, or other customers more than a company promoting its own products.

Thanks to: Becky Boyd of MediaFirst .

6. Content (Still) Reigns Supreme

Content remains king, but it's evolved to be smarter and more value-focused. To engage audiences:

1. Develop educational webinars (73% of B2B leaders say they're best for high-quality leads)
2. Craft how-to guides (articles with "how to" get 1.5x more organic traffic)
3. Share industry insights (91% of B2B pros prefer webinars for this)
4. Tell your brand's unique story (stories are 22x more memorable than facts)

Solve problems and provide genuine value. Focus on quality.

Thanks to: Molly McClure.

7. Print Over Pixels

While marketers chase the newest digital trends, try a traditional approach with direct mail and print handouts. Physical materials connect personally and are underused in today's tech landscape. Texture, weight, and flipping pages free from flashing ads create a multisensory experience that strengthens the consumer-brand bond. Research shows printed items like brochures and presentation folders imply trust, helping you stand out. Integrate social in your print ads to convert recipients online.

Thanks to: Vladimir Gendelman of Company Folders, Inc.

8. Stories Sell

Leverage technology for storytelling and content creation by finding the right words and pictures to create interest for your products/services. The world is more visual when it comes to consuming content now, which makes visual-driven platforms like YouTube/Instagram/TikTok gain popularity. With the rise of a generation that would much rather watch/look at something vs sit/read, there is a growing trend of more visual content including pictures/videos/memes/diagrams/infographics.

Thanks to: Paige Arnof-Fenn of Mavens & Moguls.

9. Reinventing Technology Sucks

One thing - a small company must stop reinventing other people‘s technologies by building your own - stop reinventing someone else’s technology that works perfectly fine and will work perfectly fine for you.
Your company and your staff do not want to reinvent someone else’s technology because you think you need something ”unique”; it is a waste of time, energy, and money. Most fortunately, just use what is already been proven to work, including for marketing.

Thanks to: Chris Carter of Approyo .

10. Content with Intention

With all the hours spent scrolling on social media, imagine creating content with intention. Have a direct message through video, posts, and graphics that connects your audience to your message, which in turn connects them to your products and services. It works for small business because it is relatable and attracts your ideal client based on platforms that they are already spending hours scrolling on every single day.

Thanks to: Galit Ventura-Rozen of Everyday Woman.

11. Honest Storytelling

Whether we are speaking in a casual meeting or at a professional networking setting, it's our personal story that will stay with the other person. Knowing what your story is, and being willing to tell it honestly is key. Even the setbacks and failures can build your image in the other person's eyes as long as you have a come back or bounce back moment, especially if it leads to why you do what you do or how you do it. For example, being a blind failed carnival owner is still part of my bio.

Thanks to: Maxwell Ivey of The Accessibility Advantage.

12. Old-School Marketing Magic

Handwritten direct mail is a powerful small business marketing strategy in today's tech-driven landscape. It stands out by offering a personal touch that digital communication lacks. With open rates up to 99% and response rates significantly higher than emails, handwritten notes cut through digital noise effectively. They build trust, create emotional connections, and demonstrate genuine care for customers. This "old school" approach is surprisingly cost-effective and versatile.

Thanks to: AJ Cheponis of https://www.straightline.consulting.

13. Make Media Matter

ONE small business marketing strategy given the ever-changing technology landscape is:

No matter how much you share your value or offering - having a 3rd party mention it - always has a greater impact.

For example, 2 companies are selling the same thing, both with the same price & offer. But, one has "AS SEEN ON" with a list of various media outlets. What one stands out for you? I would venture to guess - the one with media credentials.

Make Media Matter for your business!

Thanks to: Kevin Huhn of MARKD Productions.

14. Be Social or Go Home

It's really this simple. Traditional print advertising is just not enough. If you don't use all the social media platforms to get your story, your brand, out there, you are missing out on a great opportunity. What's also great about it is that it is no longer just the domain of those with deep pockets. Anyone can begin to create a social media presence on multiple platforms. Sure, there will have to be enough time and money spent... but such a cost effective use of one's resources when done right!

Thanks to: Crraig Wolfe of Business.

15. Economical & Focused Promotion

I recommend adopting digital marketing trends, which can frequently be less expensive than using conventional techniques. For example, without the high expenses of print or broadcast advertising, social media combined with marketing can produce sizable returns. Trends frequently introduce new methods and tools for accurate audience targeting. Instead of using a one-size-fits-all strategy, small businesses may optimize their marketing expenses by reaching the right people with ideas that resonate.

Thanks to: Mubashir Latif of Senior Financial Analyst at Banyan.

16. Digital Transformation

Embrace digital transformation. Key strategies include optimizing for SEO and local search, leveraging social media for authentic engagement, using data analytics for targeted campaigns, and investing in content marketing. Prioritize mobile-friendly websites, automation, and CRM tools to nurture leads. Agile adaptation, customer personalization, influencer partnerships, and community building remain crucial to stand out, grow brand loyalty, and drive sustainable success.

Thanks to: Kristin Marquet of Marquet Media, LLC.

17. Get Known in Your Community

If you're known as the local expert and you offer a friendly, helpful service, people will refer you. They'll do some marketing for you. How to get known locally? Join the closest networking group to you and be active. Help out at relevant events - schools, church, fairs, sports - whatever works best for you & your business. Offer to speak at local social groups. If your local community isn't quite your target market, then apply the same principles to wherever your target clients do hangout.

Thanks to: Laurence Jones of KidsNaturally Photography.

18. Using Tech to Strengthen Trust

Customers care about where their products come from, so showcasing real-time tracking and sustainable practices is vital. Technology like AI and IoT can optimize inventory and ensure consistent quality, which strengthens brand trust. For us, it’s not just about delivering fresh, traceable lobster - it’s about sharing the journey from ocean to plate. Highlighting this through digital platforms builds credibility and connects with consumers in a meaningful way.

Thanks to: Angelo Conti of Maine Lobster Now.

19. Provide Helpful Tips!

I believe small businesses must leverage personalization and accessibility in marketing. In mental health, this could mean using AI to create self-assessment tools that engage potential clients while showcasing expertise. Offering virtual counseling options and sharing thought leadership through blogs and social media builds trust. For example, a platform that provides free mental wellness tips can attract clients while reinforcing the business's commitment to care, even online.

Thanks to: Natalie Buchwald of Manhattan Mental Health Counseling.

20. Creativity Through Stories

It's especially important for creative businesses like photography to embrace storytelling and connection. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok help to create moments, have editing tips, or encourage client testimonials, making our art relatable. Some AI tools also help to personalize outreach or create mood boards for clients which can also set us apart. Try to incorporate more interactive elements as this also helps potential clients to see your value.

Thanks to: Renata Lutz of The Portrait Mama.

21. Partner Up: Partnerships Work

Develop partnerships!

This marketing strategy will never be replaced.

Spend time with your customers and see who they do business with in your community already.

Example: We work with children, adults & our aging population that want better brain health.

We partner with schools, mental health counselors and retirement villages by offering free workshops to help their clients.

Your business has other businesses ready to partner and they'll help you grow today!

Thanks to: Michael Kawula of Genesis Brain Institute.

22. Networking is Everything

Our Moving and Shipping company has been evolving in the last 3 decades in a very saturated market place. Our core business is coming from referrals and repeat customers, along with quality relationships with other related vendors who refer us business, trusting us to provide good service to their customers. It took time to build this network through endless meetings and calls but once expanded enough, the business flowed in. Take care of the people who help in growing your business. Always.

Thanks to: Moshe Fogel of Eagle Lines Moving.

23. Clarity is the Best Strategy

People buy because a product or service solves a problem or helps them achieve a goal. Content marketing and clear messaging are the best small business marketing strategies because they build trust and familiarity. Your content provides valuable, relevant information to your ideal preferred customers that helps them solve problems, leading to increased brand awareness, trust, and conversions. Clear messaging makes it easier to make a sale, guiding customers from awareness to purchase.

Thanks to: Brian Sooy of Aespire Marketing.

24. Face to Face

As social media changes, in person interactions become more important. I love being in physical places with my customers where we can interact. This year, we will be doing more in person events to meet customers. This gives customers a chance to try our skin care products and ask questions to learn more.

Thanks to: Cindy Jones of Colorado Aromatics.

25. Strategic Partnerships

Leveraging strategic partnerships is a powerful marketing strategy for small businesses in a tech-driven world. Collaborate with complementary businesses to cross-promote services, share audiences, and build community trust. In insurance for example, partnerships with real estate agents or financial advisors have amplified reach. This approach fosters credibility, expands visibility, and creates a network effect that adapts well to changing technology.

Thanks to: Brent Thurman of https://bearriveragent.com/.

26. Personalized Emails

In my work alongside the marketing team at Langan Financial, I believe that leveraging personalized email marketing is the best strategy. It’s cost-effective, scalable, and allows small businesses to nurture relationships with their customers.

By segmenting email lists based on customer behavior and preferences, businesses can deliver tailored messages that drive engagement and loyalty. As we’ve seen at our company, building trust and repeat customers is key to long-term growth.

Thanks to: Alex Langan of Langan Financial Group.

27. Trust

In senior homecare, trust is everything.

Word of mouth remains our strongest marketing tool because clients trust recommendations from friends and family. Recently, I’ve had calls from past clients’ children seeking care for themselves, proving this approach works.

For 2025, I’m blending this trust-based strategy with a stronger online presence: improving local SEO, showcasing testimonials, and highlighting our caregivers’ work on social media to reach families researching online.

Thanks to: Christian Bullas of Senior Home Care By Angels.

28. Embrace the Value of Podcasts

Our most successful new small business marketing strategy is embracing the growing podcast industry, with quality presentations to an increasing number of listeners. We push and drive content on podcasts relevant to our industry and customers. We reach hosts and their team, demonstrating our product's interest to their audiences and offer our expertise as show guests. On their websites, podcasts publish the urls mentioned on the program, enhancing awareness, SEO levels and growth.

Thanks to: Ashley Kenny of Heirloom Video Books.

29. Take Control of Social Media!

The TikTok ban, Twitter's (X's) ownership change, and Meta's sudden removal of fact-checking highlight the risks of relying on centralized social platforms. Brands spend years building up followings on corporate-owned platforms that can be ripped out from under them on the whim of a billionaire owner. This is where decentralized social media "joins the chat." BlueSky, while not yet decentralized, is built on a portable protocol — meaning you can MOVE your content and followers somewhere else!

Thanks to: Pam Aungst Cronin of Pam Ann Marketing.

30. TikTok = Value Proposition

Facebook and Instagram cost-per-acquisition has skyrocketed post-COVID. The best value proposition for a marketer in 2025 is TikTok. Its algorithm rewards content that connects with consumers and proliferates it -- for free. You can enhance that with buying traffic on the platform once you know you are connecting. The same is true for its live-selling offering (note that live-selling is >30% of all e-commerce sales in China, and TikTok is looking to pioneer this in the U.S.).

Thanks to: Paul Shrater of Digital Commerce Agency.

31. Local Marketing Counts

As a cryptocurrency ATM provider, I've found that focusing on local SEO and location-based digital presence is the most effective marketing strategy for small businesses in today's tech landscape. By optimizing for local search and maintaining accurate business information across online platforms, we've successfully captured high-intent customers searching for nearby services. This approach has helped us drive traffic to our 40+ ATM locations across the Gulf South while building trust.

Thanks to: Jordan Figuerdo of Pelicoin Bitcoin ATMs.

32. Customer Love is the Best Tech

As tech takes over the future with AI and an "all things made faster/easier" mentality takes hold, I still believe in the time-honored tradition of customer love and customer service.

Making people feel seen, heard, and listened to creates a much better customer experience, which converts to loyalty and additional sales.

I would rather wow one customer at a time with that kind of business than sweep them up with tech.

Thanks to: Roberta Perry of ScrubzBody Skin Care Products.

33. Avoid the Algorithms

With buzz about a potential TikTok ban, there's a key takeaway to keep in mind—don’t put all your eggs in one basket! Stay active on multiple platforms so you're not caught off guard by algorithm shifts or platform shake-ups. Don’t forget about your owned channels like your website and email. These are your golden tickets to connect directly with your audience. Plus, having that personal approach is what’s going to set you apart. That’s how you build a brand people love!

Thanks to: Blaire Brown of Visionary Advantages.

34. The Local Edge

As a small business owner, I've found that combining local SEO with active review management is the most powerful way to market my company today. I focus on optimizing for local search terms while building and responding to our online reviews. This strategy lets me compete with bigger businesses in my area because it builds both our digital presence and genuine community relationships.

Thanks to: Craig Ricks Jr. of Acadian Windows.

35. Social Strategy Success

From my experience marketing truck driving schools, the key to success lies in authentic TikTok and Instagram Reels content. I focus on showing real student experiences and answering common CDL training questions since these platforms' algorithms reward educational content. By being transparent and meeting potential students where they already are, I've found we get better leads at a lower cost than traditional ads.

Thanks to: Lauren Gast-Stevens of Truck Driver's Institute.

36. Growing ENT Practice Digitally

As a growing ENT practice, we’ve embraced digital marketing to stay competitive.

Prioritizing local SEO helps patients find us online, while educational content about our services, like Balloon Sinuplasty, builds trust. Investing in user-friendly scheduling tools improves the patient experience. By adapting to tech trends, we connect with our community and ensure accessible, quality care.

Thanks to: Dr. Don Beasley of Boise ENT.

37. Partnerships are a Smart Play

As a PEO professional, I've seen firsthand how partnering with a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) gives small businesses a competitive edge in marketing. By outsourcing payroll and benefits administration, business owners free up valuable time and resources to focus on strategic marketing initiatives. This allows them to stay agile and adapt to technological changes while maintaining core operations. The data shows PEO clients grow 7-9% faster than their peers.

Thanks to: Mitch Chailland of Canal HR.

38. The Local Edge

In my experience working with small businesses, I've found that success comes from blending local SEO with strong review management. I focus on optimizing for nearby searches while building real relationships through customer reviews. When I help businesses respond thoughtfully to feedback and target local keywords, they can effectively compete against bigger companies without spending a fortune. It's about combining digital reach with authentic community connections.

Thanks to: Hirely Martinez of Advantage TMS.

39. Community-Driven Storytelling

In today's tech-driven market, small businesses should focus on community-driven social media storytelling. Share authentic behind-the-scenes content that humanizes your brand, builds genuine connections, and transforms customers into loyal brand advocates by showing real people, real challenges, and real passion behind your business – without massive advertising budgets.

Customers buy from businesses they feel emotionally connected to, not just products.

Thanks to: Mudassir Ahmed of Startup Silicon.

40. LinkedIn!

Leverage LinkedIn to connect directly with decision-makers. It’s a good way for businesses to stand out in a tech-savvy landscape.

Share thought leadership content, engage in industry discussions, and build relationships with potential clients and referral sources. As an attorney and law firm owner, I've found LinkedIn invaluable for expanding my network, showcasing expertise, and generating leads in a professional, targeted way.

Thanks to: Brian Joslyn of Joslyn Law Firm.

41. Create Micro-niche Communities

Rather than casting a wide net, focus on building highly targeted online communities tailored to your ideal audience’s specific interests or pain points.

Platforms like Discord, Slack, or private Facebook Groups are excellent for fostering these spaces.

For example, if you run a fitness business, create a “Healthy Habits for Busy Professionals” community. If you're a local bakery, start a group for “Weekend Baking Enthusiasts” where you share recipes and tips.

Thanks to: Andrew Smith of PropFusion.

42. Micro-Advocacy

We encourage happy clients to share their experiences in simple, impactful ways. For example, we provide homeowners with easy tools, like customizable social media templates, to celebrate their new home while subtly mentioning Turkin Mortgage.

This strategy leverages trust networks, as friends trust recommendations from friends far more than ads. It’s also incredibly cost-effective, creating organic buzz without a big budget.

Thanks to: Leon Turkin of Turkin Mortgage.

43. Hyper-Local Personalization

Instead of spreading your efforts thin across broad audiences, focus on becoming a trusted name within your immediate community.

Use geo-targeted ads on platforms like Google and Meta to reach people in specific neighborhoods, personalize your messaging with local landmarks or events, and engage directly with community forums or social groups.

This strategy works because technology has made personalization more accessible, and people value businesses that understand their unique needs.

Thanks to: Hector S Garcia Monzon of Baltimore HCS.

44. Geofencing is My Cheat Code...

I used to work in advertising media planning and actually pay for publicity on TV, radio, internet, or print and HOPE for results. Now I can get directly on the phone of my precise target market without ANY waste... at pennies on the dollar. For example, if you want to sell pants, I can send a push notification to everyone visiting a yoga studio at a given time. I can even offer a discount for customers of the studio, even though I don't own it. Precise targeting. Zero waste. 100% Cheat Code.

Thanks to: Matt Hallisy of My General Counsel On Call.

45. Blending Tech and Trust

My more unique marketing strategy is blending modern tech with personal connections. In a rapidly evolving landscape, I focus on leveraging smart automation, like CRM tools for follow-ups, while maintaining genuine, face-to-face service that builds trust. My HVAC background taught me that tech enhances, but relationships close deals. Embracing video content for education and transparent pricing online also sets us apart in fostering customer loyalty.

Thanks to: Kyle Vocaturo of One Way Air.

46. Reviews Build Trust

I emphasize online reviews because they build trust in today’s digital-first world. HVAC is a competitive field, and potential customers rely on reviews to make decisions. A strong online reputation showcases our reliability, expertise, and excellent service. By encouraging happy clients to share their experiences, we stand out in search results, attract more leads, and ensure our personalized, high-quality approach reaches more people. It's a must for any customer-centric business!

Thanks to: Jacob Leicht of Alberta Mountain Air.

47. Everyone's a Marketer

Harnessing the power of the entire team rather than just dedicated marketers amplifies the noise your business makes within your niche. Utilizing employees, who are essentially the experts, to send your message whilst adhering to the marketing strategy can really get you noticed.

We work with our marketing pros to create a strategy incorporating all our voices for maximum impact.

Thanks to: Mohamed Moussa of Tornado Marine Fleet.

48. Expert Insight

As a dentist, I’ve found success in marketing by focusing on patient education through engaging, health-focused content. Leveraging SEO, social media, and personalized outreach has helped me build trust and connect with a larger audience.

Small businesses can adapt to changing technology by sharing their expertise through articles and digital platforms, reaching more people effectively. I’m happy to provide expert insight for helpful articles in order to get in front of new eyeballs!

Thanks to: Dr. Kristy Gretzula of Hawley Lane Dental.

49. Leveraging Data Analytics

I believe leveraging data analytics tools is the best marketing strategy for small businesses. These tools help us track customer behavior, fine-tune campaigns, and allocate budgets wisely. When you understand what works and what doesn’t, your small businesses can maximize ROI without wasting resources. It’s all about being smarter with your limited marketing dollars. Plus, it ensures we stay adaptable as technology evolves.

Thanks to: Gary Hemming of ABC Finance.

50. Focusing on Personalized CX

Focusing on personalized customer experiences is key in today’s tech-driven world. Using AI-powered tools to customize offers, recommendations, and communication can make a small business feel personal, even at scale. Customers respond well to brands that “get” them. It’s a competitive edge that builds loyalty and trust while harnessing the latest technology.

Thanks to: Lifei Chen of buysmart.ai.

51. Powering Small Business

Based on my experience serving small businesses at Health In Tech, I've found success leveraging data analytics and automation to deliver personalized solutions efficiently. Using our eDIYBS platform, we help small businesses streamline complex processes from weeks to minutes, letting them compete with larger companies while maintaining client relationships. I've seen how this blend of high-tech efficiency and high-touch service helps them scale without sacrificing personalized attention.

Thanks to: Tim Johnson of Health in Tech.

52. Pinning a Promotion to Socials

Pinning a promotional post to the top of your social media profiles taps into the visibility power of static content in a digital world where posts quickly disappear in timelines. This approach ensures your most compelling offer or announcement remains the first thing visitors see when checking out your profile, maximizing exposure without needing to repeatedly post or advertise. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to consistently catch the eye of both new and returning visitors.

Thanks to: Casey Meraz of CaseyMeraz.com.

53. Offer a Free Digital Resource

Offering a free digital resource like a checklist, eBook, or guide in exchange for an email sign-up is one of the best strategies for small businesses navigating a rapidly evolving tech landscape. This approach enables businesses to build an email list, which remains a powerful communication tool, independent of the shifting algorithms of social media platforms. It allows personalized interaction, fostering a direct relationship with potential customers.

Thanks to: Andy Gillin of GJEL Accident Attorneys.

54. Leverage LinkedIn for B2B Lead

Leveraging LinkedIn for B2B leads can be incredibly effective in a changing tech landscape. Sending personalized connection requests to potential customers isn't just about networking; it's about meaningful engagement. Tailor each request to the recipient’s profile to show genuine interest. Once connected, consistently share insightful content that addresses their industry's challenges. This builds trust and positions your business as a thought leader.

Thanks to: Will Yang of Instrumentl.

55. Email Signature Promotion

Using your email signature as a marketing tool is a clever way to subtly promote your business with every message you send. Think of it as passive advertising that's constantly working in the background without being intrusive. Utilize tools like Wisestamp or HubSpot to easily create dynamic signatures that can include a promo banner or CTA linked to a special offer or new product page. This strategy not only keeps your contact information current but also keeps recipients engaged.

Thanks to: Connor Butterworth of Southwestern Rugs Depot.

56. QR Codes on Packaging & Flyers

Integrating QR codes into packaging and flyers can transform how small businesses engage with customers in real-time. These codes offer an interactive element to otherwise static materials, linking directly to discount pages, review sites, or exclusive content. This strategy amplifies customer engagement by providing an immediate and convenient way to access valuable information or offers, enhancing the overall shopping experience.

Thanks to: Jean Chen of Mondressy.

57. Short-Form Video Marketing

Short-form video marketing is a powerhouse for small businesses navigating a tech-driven world. These quick, engaging clips tap into our shrinking attention spans and make content shareable, letting brands reach broad audiences with minimal effort. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels prioritize such content, boosting visibility without needing hefty ad budgets. This not only fosters community but creates authentic content that feels less like traditional advertising.

Thanks to: Andrew Franks of Claimsline.

58. Automated Thank You Emails

Automated thank-you emails with a special offer work well because they capitalize on the customer’s positive sentiment right after a purchase, boosting both loyalty and repeat business. Personalizing these emails using customer data and past purchase behavior can significantly increase conversion rates by making the offers feel relevant. Leveraging a simple tool like an A/B testing framework can refine the email's timing and content, ensuring it resonates effectively with your audience.

Thanks to: Roy Benesh of eSIMple.

59. AI for Competitive Edge

AI-driven competitive intelligence and trend spotting stands out as a top marketing strategy for small businesses in today's tech landscape. Implementing tools like Google Trends or using AI platforms that offer predictive analytics can provide these valuable insights, helping small businesses make informed decisions on product offerings and marketing campaigns, ensuring they remain relevant and competitive. Using AI helps businesses focus resources on what truly resonates.

Thanks to: Chris Roy of Reclaim247.

60. Shoppable IG & TikTok Posts

Shoppable Instagram and TikTok posts transform casual browsing into an instant shopping experience, giving small businesses a chance to meet customers where they already spend a lot of time. This strategy cuts the buying process short and taps into impulse buying by eliminating the need to leave the app, providing a seamless path to purchase. Use eye-catching visuals combined with relatable storytelling in your posts to hook viewers and guide them effortlessly toward a purchase.

Thanks to: Jovie Chen of Zogiwel.

61. AI-Powered Personalization

AI-powered personalization is gold for small businesses, allowing them to tailor experiences and build connections with customers without needing huge budgets. Use AI to analyze customer interactions, then adjust your messaging and offers to fit individual preferences in real-time, making your audience feel understood and valued. To get started, set up A/B tests for different AI-generated content on your website to see which personalized elements boost engagement most effectively.

Thanks to: Richard Bee of Garden Office Buildings.

62. Stay Focused & Keep it Simple

I've found it effective to focus on only a few key marketing goals, or target niches, each quarter to avoid overwhelming myself and my team. Concentrated efforts can produce more than spread-too-thin.

Pick a segment, i.e., construction companies, and go hard after their business. Speaking to similar prospects will sometimes produce insights and language that will help you with the next one you speak to, and lead to better results than scattershot.

Thanks to: Dan Edmonson of Dronegenuity.

63. Content Marketing

For me, content marketing stands out. Creating valuable, educational content that solves problems or answers questions positions small businesses as trusted authorities. It’s cost-effective and can be easily amplified with SEO and social media. Also, content builds long-term relationships with your audience, which is essential in any tech landscape.

Thanks to: Stanislav Khilobochenko of Clario.

64. A Strong SEO Foundation

Always start with SEO, using PPC ads to fill in the gaps - it takes six to twelve months to see SEO progress, no matter your brand’s size or budget.

Start by looking up your competitors in your tool of choice and targeting their top low-competition keywords and those you don't yet rank for. Create high-quality content that builds on the conversation and feeds user pain points. If that means releasing 2 new pages monthly rather than 10, choose quality over quantity.

Thanks to: Elisa Montanari of Wrike.

65. Automated Customer Engagement

Embracing automation for customer engagement is a game-changer. Automated emails, chatbots, and CRM tools streamline communication while staying responsive. It helps small businesses save time, scale their outreach, and provide consistent service. As tech evolves, automation ensures you stay competitive and connected without overwhelming your team.

Thanks to: Conrad Wang of EnableU.

66. Omnichannel Marketing

I’d say omnichannel marketing is critical. Being present and consistent across social media, email, search, and even offline ensures you reach customers wherever they are. Technology now allows small businesses to manage this seamlessly with integrated tools. This approach increases visibility and builds trust, especially as customer touchpoints multiply.

Thanks to: Adam Young of Event Tickets Center.

67. Video Marketing

It’s my top pick because with tech making video creation more accessible, small businesses can tell compelling stories that resonate. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok make it easy to reach millions with minimal budgets. Video builds trust, demonstrates products, and creates emotional connections in ways text simply can’t.

Thanks to: Roman Zrazhevskiy of MIRA Safety.

68. Investing in Local SEO

Investing in local SEO is crucial. Most small businesses thrive on local customers, and optimizing for “near me” searches ensures you show up when people are ready to buy. It’s cost-effective and highly targeted. With tech tools like Google My Business, even a small investment can yield significant results in local visibility.

Thanks to: Nick Esposito of NYCServers.

69. Building a Strong Email List

Building a strong email list remains unbeatable. Despite new tech, email offers a direct line to your audience with incredible ROI. It’s personal, adaptable, and can be automated to nurture relationships over time. In a constantly changing landscape, email is a steady strategy that keeps your business top-of-mind.

Thanks to: John Grant of Premier Bidets.

70. Leveraging Social Proof

I think leveraging social proof, like reviews and testimonials, is incredibly powerful. Customers trust the opinions of others, and technology has made it easier to showcase this on your site and social media. It’s a low-cost, high-impact strategy that builds credibility and encourages new customers to engage.

Thanks to: Maryanne Fiedler of Psychic Source.

71. Influencer Partnerships

Adopting influencer partnerships is my go-to strategy. Collaborating with micro-influencers in your niche provides authentic promotion to highly engaged audiences. Technology makes it simple to connect with the right influencers and measure results. This approach gives small businesses a personal touch in a competitive landscape.

Thanks to: Peter Čuček of Tuuli.

72. Search Engine Optimization

Search engine optimization (SEO) remains the best strategy. By optimizing your website for search, you can attract a steady stream of targeted traffic without ongoing ad spend. As technology and algorithms evolve, SEO adapts, ensuring long-term relevance and visibility. For small businesses, it’s a sustainable way to grow.

Thanks to: David Haskins of WrongfulDeathLawyer.com.

73. Adapt Agile Marketing

Small businesses need agility and Agile Marketing can be the perfect fit as it combines flexibility and effectiveness. The best thing about agile marketing is that it replaces rigid, long-term plans with short, iterative campaigns (or sprints) that can quickly be tested, analyzed, and refined. This test-and-learn approach helps small businesses compete, stay ahead of the trend, timely respond to shifting customer's needs, and optimize their marketing efforts with a lot of precision and speed.

Thanks to: Nandini Sharma of ProofHub.

74. Don't Overlook the Obvious

Know where your target market client lives online and be highly visible on the specific social media form associated with where they live. For example, if your client is a business person, post on LinkedIn every day. Have a strong presence where your client is most likely to be.

Thanks to: Randy Peyser of Author One Stop, Inc.

As always, many thanks to everyone that contributed to this article!

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