If you’re running a small business, chances are you’re constantly juggling a dozen hats. With fulfilling orders, managing your team, and keeping things running, finding time or money for marketing can seem hard.

You don’t need a massive ad budget or a marketing degree to get more customers through your door. Some of the best ways to grow your local reach are free. This works because it focuses on relationships, trust, and community.

Here are five low-cost strategies to attract more local customers. These tips can help your small business grow without spending money on ads.

1. Make Google Your Best Friend with a Fully Optimized Business Profile

Think of your Google Business Profile as your online store. It appears when people search for businesses like yours nearby. If your information is old or missing, you are losing a significant opportunity to connect with people. They are already looking for what you provide.

What to do:

• Make sure your hours, phone number, and address are accurate and consistent with your website
• Add photos to your profile. Include shots of your products, space, team, and anything that makes your business special
• Write a short and clear description. I provide services in [your field] while located in [your location]. For example, say “plant shop in Fort Collins” or “affordable haircut near downtown Boise.”
• Ask your happy customers for reviews, and take a minute to reply to each one
• Use the “Posts” feature to share weekly updates, special offers, or events

🛠 Pro tip: Add service areas if you travel to clients or serve surrounding cities—this helps Google show your business in more searches.

2. Appear in Your Community (Not Just Online)

Want your business to feel like a local favorite? You have to appear where your people are—and that includes both real-life events and local social media spaces.

Try this:

• Set up a table at a community market, vendor fair, or school fundraiser
• Join your city’s Chamber of Commerce or small biz networking groups
• Sponsor a youth sports team or neighborhood clean-up day
• Run a giveaway with other local businesses (hello, cross-promotion!)
• Be active in neighborhood Facebook Groups—answer questions, recommend others, and contribute genuinely

The more people see your name linked to trusted community spaces, the more they will remember you. This will help when they need your product or service.

3. Make Referrals Easy—and Worth It

Referrals are powerful, but they don’t always happen on their own. You have to make it easy (and rewarding!) for people to discuss your business.

A few simple ideas:

• Create “Refer a Friend” cards or digital links with a discount for both the referrer and the new customer
• Run a monthly giveaway where every referral = one entry
• Include a card in each order or at checkout that says “Loved this? Send a friend and get 10% off your next visit!”
• Give customers the actual words to share: “Hey, I just found this awesome bakery in downtown Spokane—check them out!”

Don’t forget to celebrate your top referrers. A thank-you note or small freebie goes a long way.

4. Use Social Media Like a Human, Not a Billboard

You don’t need to go viral—you just need to be visible and relatable. Social media is your chance to build trust with your local audience before they ever set foot in your shop or book your service.

Here’s what to post:

• Behind-the-scenes glimpses of your day
• Quick tips related to your business (e.g., “3 easy ways to care for your new houseplant”)
• Fun facts or “Meet the Owner” posts
• Customer shoutouts or photos with their permission.
• Announcements about specials, events, or community involvement

Use location tags and city-specific hashtags like #DenverMoms or #ShopSmallSanAntonio. This helps your content reach the right local audience.

5. Create a Share-Worthy Experience

One of the best ways to market your business is to get people discussing it. But word-of-mouth doesn’t just happen—it’s something you can actively encourage.

Make your business more “shareable”:

• Offer small touches that feel personal—handwritten thank-you notes, cute packaging, or branded stickers
• Set up a mini photo wall or mirror with your logo and a fun hashtag (great for salons, boutiques, and studios!)
• Add a QR code to your checkout counter or thank-you card that links directly to your Google review page
• Amaze customers with a bonus sample, discount, or shoutout on social media.

When people have a great experience with you, they want to tell their friends. Make it easy for them to do it.

A Quick Recap

Attracting more local customers doesn’t require a huge budget—it just requires showing up intentionally and consistently. Here’s a quick recap:

• Optimize your Google profile so you appear in local search.
• Get involved in your community to boost visibility and build relationships
• Make referrals easy and rewarding for your biggest fans
• Use social media to connect, not just promote
• Create moments worth sharing to keep word-of-mouth working for you

You don’t need fancy strategies. You need people to know who you are, what you do, and why they should come back.

Here are the simple steps to take. 

1. **Engage with Local Events**: Attend or sponsor local events, fairs, or markets. This not only puts your business in front of potential customers but also shows that you value your community. Hand out flyers or business cards, and don’t forget to bring a friendly smile!

2. **Leverage Customer Feedback**: Encourage your customers to leave reviews online. Positive testimonials can significantly influence new customers. Think about sending a simple follow-up email or message. Thank them for their business and ask for their feedback.

3. **Host Workshops or Classes**: If applicable, consider hosting workshops or classes related to your business. This not only showcases your expertise but also creates a fun and interactive way for locals to engage with your brand.

4. **Collaborate with Other Local Businesses**: Partner with other businesses for cross-promotions. This could be as simple as sharing each other’s social media posts or creating a special offer that benefits both parties.

5. **Utilize Local SEO**: Make sure your website is optimized for local searches. Use keywords that reflect your location and services. This will help you appear in search results when locals are looking for what you offer.

6. **Create a Loyalty Program**: Reward your repeat customers with a loyalty program. This could be a simple punch card or a digital rewards system. It encourages them to return and can also motivate them to refer friends.

7. **Share Local Stories**: Use your social media platforms to share stories about your community, your customers, or your team. This personal touch can help build a connection and make your brand more relatable.

8. **Stay Consistent**: Consistency is key. Whether it’s posting on social media, attending events, or engaging with customers, make sure you’re regularly showing up. This builds trust and keeps your business top-of-mind.

By implementing these strategies, you’ll not only attract more local customers but also foster a loyal community around your brand. Remember, it’s all about building relationships and creating a welcoming environment. So, get out there and start connecting! Get our free Marketing and Growth Toolkit. It has customizable templates, ideas, and time-saving tools for small business owners like you.