So you’ve launched your business, now what?
One of the biggest challenges for new entrepreneurs is getting noticed. You’ve spent time developing your product or service, setting up your operations, and maybe even getting a few first customers. But consistent sales don’t just happen. You need a plan to attract attention, build trust, and turn interest into income.
This guide offers simple, practical ways to market your business now that you’re live. Whether you’re working with no budget or just getting started on social media, you’ll find tools and ideas to help you grow.
Step One: Make Your Message Clear
1. Write a Simple One-Liner
Good marketing starts with clarity. You should be able to explain what you do and who it’s for in one sentence.
Formula
I help [audience] solve [problem] with [product or service].
Examples
- I help new moms in Saskatoon save time by delivering healthy meals.
- I help tradespeople organize their finances with easy-to-use bookkeeping services.
Write it down and use it across your website, social media bios, and email introductions.
2. Create a Home Base Online
If you haven’t already, build a basic website. It doesn’t need to be perfect, it just needs to clearly explain who you are, what you offer, and how to buy or book.
Tool Suggestion
Wix, Squarespace, or Shopify (depending on whether you offer services or products)
What to include
- A simple home page with your one-liner
- A product or services page
- Testimonials or reviews
- A way to contact you or place an order
Make it easy for people to take the next step.
Step Two: Build Relationships Through Email
3. Start Collecting Emails
Even if you’re active on social media, email is still one of the best ways to connect directly with your audience. Create a simple form on your website so people can sign up for updates, discounts, or resources.
Tool Suggestion
Kit, MailerLite, or Mailchimp – all offer beginner-friendly plans
Offer a reason to subscribe, like a discount or a helpful download (such as a guide, checklist, or sample).
4. Send Consistent Updates
You don’t need to email every week, but aim for once or twice a month. Keep it short, friendly, and focused. Share what’s new, what’s working, and how people can buy or book.
What to include
- Promotions or seasonal offers
- Customer highlights or testimonials
- A story about something you’ve learned or struggled with
- A reminder of how your product helps
Email helps build long-term loyalty, not just quick sales.
Step Three: Show Up on Social Media
5. Pick One Platform to Focus On
You don’t need to be on every platform. Choose one based on where your customers already spend time.
- Instagram or TikTok for visual products and younger audiences
- Facebook or LinkedIn for local services or business clients
Tool Suggestion
Post 2–3 times per week to stay visible and active.
6. Share Your Day-to-Day Story
People connect with people. Share more than just promotions. Show what it’s like to run your business, solve problems, or serve your community.
Ideas to try
- Behind-the-scenes photos or videos
- Short tips related to your industry
- The story of why you started
- Introductions to you or your team
Authenticity builds trust. You don’t have to be perfect… just honest.
7. Use Hashtags and Local Tags
Hashtags and location tags help new people find you. Use a mix of industry-specific and community-focused tags. For example:
#ShopLocalSK
#SaskatoonWellness
#WeddingPlannerYXE
#IndigenousEntrepreneur
You can also tag other businesses you partner with or support.
Step Four: Encourage Word-of-Mouth
8. Ask for Reviews and Testimonials
After every purchase or project, follow up and ask for feedback. A short sentence or quote can go a long way when shared on your website or social media.
Tip
Make it easy – send a Google Form, email, or message with a direct question like:
“What did you love most about your experience?”
“Would you recommend us to others?”
Tool Suggestion
Use Canva to turn kind words into quote graphics you can reuse in your marketing.
9. Start a Referral Program
People love to share businesses they trust, especially when there’s a reward. Offer something simple:
- A discount for both the referrer and their friend
- A freebie after 3 or 5 referrals
- Early access or VIP status for supporters
You can track referrals manually or with tools like SparkLoop or ReferralCandy.
Step Five: Grow Your Reach
10. Partner with Another Business
Collaboration is one of the fastest ways to grow. Partner with someone who shares your audience but doesn’t compete.
- A photographer and a florist
- A fitness coach and a meal prep service
- A financial advisor and a real estate agent
Host a giveaway, share each other’s posts, or co-create a product or event.
11. Try a Small Paid Campaign
You don’t need a huge budget to test a paid ad. With just $50–100, you can run a Facebook, Instagram, or Google ad to boost visibility and drive traffic to your website or store.
Start simple
- Promote your best-selling product
- Boost a testimonial
- Share a time-limited offer
Tool Suggestion
Meta Ads Manager for Facebook/Instagram
Google Ads for service businesses based on local searches
Final Thoughts
Marketing after launch is about consistency. There’s no one perfect strategy but showing up regularly, building relationships, and offering value over time will lead to results.
Pick two or three things from this list and commit to doing them well. Update your messaging. Start an email list. Post consistently on one platform. Ask for reviews. Partner locally. Then build from there.
If you ever feel stuck or unsure what to try next, book a meeting with an advisor, we’re here to help you move forward.
