What Kind of Marketing Support Does My Business Need?
You’re posting on social media, sending emails, maybe even running ads, but your marketing efforts, money and time all still feel like throwing money into a black hole. Sound familiar?
Most small businesses struggle with marketing because they’re using the wrong approach for their business type. The good news is that once you match the right marketing support to your specific situation, everything changes.
I’ve worked with businesses across South Derbyshire, and the ones that succeed all have one thing in common—they found the marketing support that fits their specific situation.
So, how do you know what kind of marketing support your business actually needs?
Let’s break it down based on different business types and their common struggles – and the kind of marketing support that can really make a difference.
1. Marketing Startups and New small and micro Businesses
If this sounds like you:
- “I don’t know where to start with marketing”
- “I have no brand identity”
- “Everyone says I need a website, social media, AND email marketing – it’s overwhelming”
Recommended support:
- Brand Transformation Package – Complete marketing strategy, 90-day roadmap, plus professional branded photos that showcase your business properly
- Strategic social media setup – Accounts optimised to attract your ideal customers from day one
- One-page website – Simple landing page that builds credibility and captures leads
- 90-day marketing roadmap – Clear priorities so you’re not scattered
For businesses looking for something more tailored, I also offer private workshop delivery. This means you (or your team) can get focused, practical advice in a session built entirely around your business, your goals, and your current challenges.
A 1-2-1 marketing strategy session can also give a solid starting point with a roadmap towards reaching those goals.
2. Local Service-Based Businesses (like trades, beauty, or wellness)
If this sounds like you:
- “I only get work through word of mouth”
- “I post randomly on social media but nothing happens”
- “People can’t find me online”
Recommended support:
- Google Business Profile optimisation – Be the first business locals find
- Content that showcases expertise – Before/after photos, process videos, client testimonials
- Review generation system – Turn happy customers into a steady stream of 5-star reviews
- Local SEO strategy – Dominate search results in South Derbyshire
Why this works: When potential customers search for services like yours, you want to be the first business they see. Local SEO and strategic content put you exactly where your customers are looking.
Ready to get found by more local customers? Book your Service Business Strategy Session – we’ll identify your biggest visibility opportunities.
3. Marketing Help for Retail and Physical / bricks-and-mortar Businesses
If this sounds like you:
- “Online sales are inconsistent”
- “I struggle to drive footfall to my shop”
- “I’m constantly competing on price”
What increases sales:
- Email marketing sequences – Turn browsers into buyers (average 25% increase in repeat customers)
- Seasonal campaign planning – Maximize peak periods, create demand in quiet times
- Product photography that sells – Professional images that showcase value, not just features
- SEO content strategy – Attract customers searching for what you sell
Tip: Combining content planning and newsletter updates with in-store promotions is a powerful strategy.
4. Makers, Creatives, and One-Person Brands
If this sounds like you:
- “I hate feeling ‘salesy'”
- “I don’t know what content my audience wants”
- “Imposter syndrome stops me from promoting myself”
What builds sustainable income:
- Story-driven content templates – Share your process without feeling pushy
- Behind-the-scenes strategy – Build connection and trust naturally
- Portfolio optimisation – Showcase work that attracts dream clients
Why this works: When customers understand your process and story, they see the value in what you create. This naturally justifies higher prices and builds loyal customers who choose you over cheaper alternatives.
5. Advanced Marketing Support for Growing Businesses
If this sounds like you:
- “We’ve plateaued and need fresh ideas”
- “Marketing takes too much time away from running the business”
- “We’re ready to invest in serious growth”
Recommended support:
-
Marketing audits and strategy – find the gaps and opportunities
-
Outsourced content creation – free up your time
-
Lead generation campaigns – social ads, landing pages, email funnels
-
Partnership and PR opportunities – wider reach, better exposure
Why this works: When you remove marketing tasks from your plate and implement systems that work consistently, you free up time to focus on high-value activities that directly impact revenue growth.
Tip: Sometimes you’re too close to your own business to see the opportunities. A fresh perspective can quickly identify what’s working, what’s not, and where your biggest growth potential lies.
So, What Support Does Your Business Need?
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to marketing support. The key is identifying your biggest challenge – visibility, confidence, consistency, or growth – and finding the right kind of help to move you forward.
Whether you need a DIY boost, a strategy session, affordable SEO, or someone to take it off your plate, there is support out there that fits your style and your budget.
I can also offer targeted marketing workshops for teams to ensure everyone is working towards the same marketing goals.
Need help figuring out the next step?
I offer tailored marketing support for small businesses in South Derbyshire – from one-off strategy sessions, to done-for-you content and ongoing SEO support.
Let’s chat about what would help you thrive.