Social Media Tips for Small Businesses

Running a small business means wearing a lot of hats - owner, accountant, customer service rep, and sometimes even marketer. With so much on your plate, keeping up with social media can feel overwhelming.

No need to fear! You don’t need a big budget or a marketing degree to use social platforms effectively. With the right strategy, social media can help you connect with customers, build your brand, and grow your business online.

Here are some simple, practical tips to help your small business make the most out of social media.

1. Know Your Audience

Not every social media platform is right for every business. Think about who your customers are and where they spend their time. For example, younger audiences may be on TikTok or Instagram, while professionals are more likely to be on LinkedIn. Choosing the right platform will save you time and make your efforts more effective.

2. Keep It Consistent

Consistency is key in social media marketing for small businesses. Posting regularly helps keep your business visible and top-of-mind. You don’t need to post every day—just create a realistic schedule you can stick to, whether that’s three times a week or once a week.

3. Share More Than Sales Pitches

People don’t log on to social media to be sold to. They’re there to be entertained, inspired, or informed. Mix in behind-the-scenes content, helpful tips, or fun facts alongside your promotions. This isn't to say you can't advertise at all on your pages, but showing the human side of your small business builds trust and loyalty.

4. Use High-Quality Photos and Videos

With social media, you're looking to "stop the scroll" and catch the attention of your audience! Eye-catching visuals can help you do just that.

You don’t need expensive equipment - just good lighting and can make a huge difference on photos taken with a phone. Short videos, reels, and even live streams are a great way to showcase your products or services.

5. Engage With Your Followers

Social media isn’t just about posting - it’s about connecting. Reply to comments, answer messages, and thank people who tag your business. When customers feel heard, they’re more likely to support your business and recommend you to others.

6. Take Advantage of Free Tools

Many platforms like Instagram and Facebook offer free tools to track your performance. Use insights and analytics to see what types of posts attract the most views and engagement. Over time, you’ll learn what kind of content your audience enjoys most.

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Try Paid Ads

If your budget allows, even a small amount spent on targeted ads can go a long way. Social media advertising lets you reach people based on location, age, or interests, which is perfect for growing a local small business audience.

In short, social media is one of the most affordable and effective ways for small businesses to connect with customers. With a little planning and consistency, you can use these platforms to build relationships, grow your brand, and ultimately boost your bottom line.

So pick your platforms, share your story, and have fun with it! Your future customers are just a few taps away.

Need help getting your small business up and running? At Elevate Credit Union, we're proud to offer one of the best business accounts for Utah small business owners.

Stop by one of our Northern Utah branches, give us a call at 435-723-3437, or apply online for a business account! One of our experienced and friendly new account representatives would love to help you out.