As a small business owner, you’re no stranger to budget constraints, especially when it comes to marketing. 

However, the thing is, you don’t need deep pockets to make a splash. The real game-changer in content marketing is creativity. It’s that one resource that’s free and limitless. 

You can use it to create engaging stories and draw in the right audience. According to Forbes, a whopping 84% of businesses succeed in raising brand awareness through strategic content marketing. 

If you want to be the next, stick around as we reveal the best content marketing strategies for small businesses. 

7 Effective Content Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses

Small business owners have a lot on their plate, and stretching every dollar is a must. Amidst this, finding ways to make a big impact without a massive budget is challenging. 

However, the right content marketing strategy for small business can help you thrive, even on a tight budget. 

1. Blog Posts

Some people argue that blogging has become a thing of the past, especially with the rise of video content and social media. However, it is far from dead. People still turn to blogs when they’re looking for detailed information on a certain topic.

In fact, according to Social Media Today, 77% of internet users read blogs. However, now that AI can churn out generic posts in seconds, you need to ensure your content reads better than ever. 

When we talk about creating blog posts, we’re not referring to mass-produced, cookie-cutter content. Instead, the blog should serve your audience by providing real value and a touch of your unique personality. Here are a few things to remember:

• Go deep, not wide. Instead of cranking out blog posts just to meet a quota, focus on creating in-depth, well-researched articles that provide genuine value. Quality over quantity is the way to go. 
• Be a problem-solver. Think about the challenges your audience faces, and then write blog posts that offer solutions. It could be tips and how-tos that help your readers meaningfully.
• Bring your voice to the table. Share your experiences and opinions for each piece, just like Brenna Holeman does in her travel blog. This personalizes the content and makes readers come back for more. 

2. Videos

Video is one of the most effective content marketing ideas for small businesses. It engages, entertains, and educates all at once. 

Whether it’s a quick tutorial or a behind-the-scenes glimpse, videos can grab attention in a way that text alone can’t. According to Statistica, 58% of US adults watch videos daily. 

Further, Forbes announces short-form videos as “the most engaging type of content on social media,” capturing the attention of 66% of consumers. It’s no wonder that platforms across the board are riding the video wave. 

Take LinkedIn, for instance. Traditionally known for professional networking, the platform recently introduced a short-form video content feature. This makes it clear that people are drawn to this format. 

If you intend to leverage this content marketing strategy for small business, you’ve got to be intentional. 

• Focus on Storytelling

Sure, you can casually show your product or service, but how about telling a story behind it?

For example, if you own a small coffee shop, don’t just film your baristas making lattes. Share a video about how your shop started and the challenges you encountered. Talk about the community you’ve built. 

A story like this will make viewers feel a connection to your brand. Take a cue from Harvard Business Review on how to tell a story that moves people. 

• Teach Something Helpful

Let’s face it - many among us graduated watching YouTube videos the night before the exam. They’re practical and offer information in a bite-sized manner. Research highlights that 72% of consumers prefer to learn about a product through video. 

So, for instance, if you own a skincare brand, create a series of videos explaining to your audience how to use the product effectively. You could discuss how to layer products, the best times to use them, and what results they can expect. 

Plus, if you hire a micro-influencer to get the job done, it’ll be the cherry on top. You’ll draw in some niche-specific audience, and they’ll get paid (a win-win).

3. Email Newsletters

Email newsletters might seem like a throwback in today’s world of social media, but they’re far from outdated. In fact, it is the most reliable b2b content marketing strategy for small businesses. 

They let you build strong relationships with your existing and potential customers because they create a direct line to your audience’s inbox. You get to share updates and offer exclusive deals all in one place. 

So, unlike social media, where your message can get lost in the shuffle, an email lands right where your customers are most likely to see it. 

However, make sure you:

• Keep Them Personal

Did you know 83% of customers happily share their data when a business promises personalized experiences in return? Using your customers' names and segmenting them based on their interests can take you a long way. 

For instance, if you run a fitness studio, you could send different email newsletters to yoga enthusiasts and weightlifting fans. This way, your content will speak to their unique passion. 

• Remain Consistent But Not Overbearing

Consistency is key, but you don’t want to overwhelm your audience. Find a frequency that works for you and stick to it. You have the option to send out newsletters every week, bi-weekly, or monthly. 

4. Podcasts

Podcast listeners have increased in the past few years, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a way to consume content on the go (while community, working out, or relaxing). Unlike videos, they don’t demand your full attention, and unlike written content, they don’t require you to sit down and read. 

The audience loving the flexibility it offers implies it’s the right time to invest in this content type. And the best part? You don’t need a massive budget to get started. All you need is:

• A decent microphone
• Basic recording software (free options like Audacity or Garageband work, too)
• A quiet space 

Once your podcast is ready, you can host it on multiple platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. To reach a broader audience, consider sharing the episodes on social media channels. 

You can draw inspiration from Jay Shetty’s Podcast, and you’ll notice how powerful this medium can be. Jay has invited several influential figures from various fields to share their insights. 

So, it goes without saying that it is one of the best content marketing strategies for small businesses seeking budget-friendly options. 

5. Interactive Content 

If you’re looking for a content marketing strategy for small business that sparks engagement, this might be it. 81% of marketers believe that interactive content drives better results than static content. 

Unlike traditional content, which is often consumed and forgotten, interactive content actively engages people. They get to make choices, discover new insights, and learn something new about themselves. 

For instance, if you run a skincare business, a relevant quiz can help someone find their perfect skincare routine. Likewise, an interactive calculator that shows how much they could save on your product allows them to make an informed decision. 

These personalized experiences stay in the user’s mind, which means you build strong relationships with them. Here’s why it works. 

• Interactive content keeps users engaged longer. This implies they’re more likely to explore your offer. 
• People love sharing interactive content that resonates with them. Friends often end up sharing their results with each other. As a result, you generate organic reach and attract new audiences to your brand. 
• Besides the reach part, interactive content offers a great way to collect data. Every interaction gives you insights into your audience’s preferences. This way, you can tailor your products and marketing efforts more effectively. 

6. Behind-the-Scenes Content

We’re curious beings, and behind-the-scenes content quenches that curiosity. Besides, consumers are now increasingly craving genuine connections with brands. 

Sharing behind-the-scenes content means allowing them to see the effort and creativity that goes into everything you do. The result? Trust built on transparency. 

Consider Glossier. This beauty brand often shares glimpses of product development, team meetings, and fun moments. Check out this video where the brand teams up with Louisa Jacobson, who gives us a peek into her routine. 

Pulling back the curtain has allowed Glossier to create a loyal community that feels more like a group of friends than customers. So, it remains one of the most effective content marketing strategies for small business. If you intend to leverage it, keep these things in mind. 

• Be authentic. Don’t worry about making everything perfect. In fact, the imperfections - the little mishaps or moments of spontaneity - often make this content type more relatable. Audience often connects well with the real, unscripted moments from their favorite brands. 
• Highlight your team. People connect with people. So, consider introducing your team members and let them talk about their roles. This approach humanizes your brand and makes your audience feel like they’re part of your company’s story. 

7. Virtual Events

Virtual events are the way to go if you’re looking for affordable strategies for small business content creation and marketing. They reshape how we connect and engage with our audience. 

First, they eliminate the costs of venue rentals, travel, and catering. Second, they offer the incredible convenience of participating from anywhere. 

Data reveals that virtual events are a part of the marketing plan of a staggering 99% of businesses. No wonder it's one of the best content marketing strategies for small businesses.

Sure, the trend of online events accelerated during the COVID era, but people still flock to these events because of their flexibility. 

Attendees can literally join from the comfort of their living rooms. Plus, interactive live chats and Q&A sessions offer a rich experience without geographical constraints. 

If you seek to leverage this content type, here are a few things to consider. 

• Choose a platform that boosts your event’s experience. Tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams offer several features for an interactive experience (think polls, breakout rooms, and live streaming). 
• Always test the platform ahead of time to ensure it meets your needs and is user-friendly. 
• Encourage your audience to share their thoughts and ask questions. The more interactive your event, the more memorable it will be. 
• Don’t let the engagement die once the event is over. Follow up with a recap email that includes the event highlights and key takeaways. You can also share a post about it on social media. 

Contact Video Marketing, Chicago Experts for a Personalized Content Marketing Strategy

Content marketing is generally always seen as a tactic, and while there’s no denying that, it is more than that: a conversation with your customers and a chance to share your story.

When you infuse your content with a touch of authenticity, you transform it from mere messaging into meaningful engagement. 

We shared the best content marketing strategies for small businesses to help you reach your people. Experiment with them, but most importantly, stay true to what makes your business special.

If you don't want to do all these things on your own, you can let the experts do the job. At INDIRAP, we have a team of video marketing, Chicago pros specializing in different aspects of content marketing. Whether you need help with blogs or podcasts, our experts can do all the legwork for you, so you can sit back and see your small business getting the exposure it deserves.

Contact us today and get a free consultation from our video production, Chicago team.

FAQs

How to do content marketing for a small business?

Start by understanding your audience and what they’re interested in. Then, create valuable content that resolves their pain points. Share the content on social media or email newsletters (if your audience prefers personalization). Besides, make sure you keep the content aligned with your brand’s voice. 

What is the marketing strategy for small businesses?

A solid marketing strategy for small businesses focuses on identifying your target market. This is followed by delivering customized messages that speak directly to your audience. Besides, track your efforts and adjust your approach depending on what works best. 

What are the best content marketing strategies?

The best content marketing strategies for small businesses involve creating high-quality, relevant content. This requires out-of-the-box thinking, so hiring creative content marketers is a given. Plus, consider using a mix of formats—videos, blogs, and podcasts—to keep things engaging.