If you’re a small business owner looking to grow your business or improve your online visibility, these insights might answer some of the questions you have about marketing, building trust with customers, and navigating the early challenges of entrepreneurship.
1. Building a strong business community is essential
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that community matters. Whether you’re a small business just starting out or you’ve been around for years, being part of a network of like-minded entrepreneurs can make all the difference.
Why is networking important for small business owners? It’s simple: your business community can help you get referrals, give valuable feedback, and offer emotional support when things get tough. Networking groups and fellow business owners have become a crucial part of my growth, and they can be for you, too. Surround yourself with people who are on the same journey, and you’ll find that growing your business is not only easier, but more enjoyable.
2. Building up customer trust is critical for success
When you’re starting a small business, one of the most common challenges is earning your customers’ trust. How do you build trust with potential customers? The answer lies in showing real-world proof of your work.
For me, showcasing client reviews, successful projects, and customer testimonials helped me build credibility quickly. Potential clients want to know that you can deliver on your promises. Social proof—like customer reviews and case studies—can be the deciding factor for someone choosing your services over a competitor’s.
3. Expect hard work in the beginning
Starting a business is hard work—there’s no way around it. How can small business owners manage the challenges of starting a new business? In the early days, be prepared for long hours and lots of multitasking. From balancing the books to managing clients, you’ll wear many hats, and it can be exhausting.
But here’s the good news: once you’ve built a solid foundation, the workload does start to ease up. It’s all about pushing through the challenging first year, knowing that you’re setting yourself up for long-term success. Prioritise time management, and remember that these long hours are temporary as you establish yourself.
4. Online visibility is key (even when it feels uncomfortable)
If there’s one thing that every small business owner should know, it’s that being visible online is non-negotiable. How do you increase online visibility for a small business? You need to be present and active on the platforms where your customers are.
Whether it’s through a professional website, regular social media updates, or attending local networking events, being visible helps people discover your brand and start building trust with you. I know it can feel awkward or “icky” to promote yourself, but consistency is key. Show up, share valuable content, and make it easy for potential customers to find you.
5. Client reviews are a marketing goldmine
Why are client reviews important for small businesses? Client reviews and testimonials act as social proof, showing potential customers that your business is trustworthy and reliable. For me, they’ve been a magic bullet in building my brand and gaining credibility in the early days.
If you’re a small business owner, don’t hesitate to ask your clients for reviews. Positive feedback can go a long way in convincing others to trust you with their business. Not only do reviews help with word-of-mouth marketing, but they also improve your local SEO, making it easier for people to find you when they’re searching for services online.
6. Invest in professional photos for your brand
One of the smartest investments I made in my first year was hiring a professional photographer to capture high-quality images for my website and social media. Why are professional photos important for small businesses? The reality is, visuals play a huge role in how potential customers perceive your brand.
A polished, professional image can instantly elevate your credibility. Plus, having a bank of professional photos saved me a lot of time when I needed content for my website or social media, especially on days when I wasn’t feeling “camera-ready.” If you want your business to stand out online, professional photos are worth every penny.
7. Feeling overwhelmed is normal—and it’s a good thing
At times, you might feel like you’re in over your head. Is it normal to feel overwhelmed when starting a small business? Absolutely! But here’s the thing—feeling out of your depth often means you’re on the verge of growth.
When you’re pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone, it’s a sign that you’re learning and evolving. So, embrace those moments of self-doubt. They’re often followed by some of your biggest breakthroughs. Keep going, even when things feel tough, because success is just around the corner.
Ready to grow your small business?
My first year in business has been full of ups and downs, but the lessons I’ve learned have been invaluable. To all the small business owners out there—whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level—I hope these insights help guide your journey.
If you’re ready to take your business to the next level with a fresh website, social media makeover, or SEO strategy, let’s chat. I’d love to help your business thrive online!
