10 Small Business Marketing Strategies That Work

Marketing your business as an independent contractor isn’t always easy—especially when you’re trying to do it all on your own. The good news? You don’t need a huge budget to get noticed or attract new clients. 

With the right plan and a bit of creativity, you can promote your services, bring in new leads, and stand out from the competition. These 10 smart, affordable marketing strategies can help take your business to the next level—without draining your bank account. 

10 Marketing Strategies for Independent Professionals

1. Build Your Professional Brand

Before you start promoting your business, make sure your brand is solid. Your brand should tell people who you are, what you do, and why they should hire you. 

Ask yourself: 

• What does my business stand for? 
• What do I do really well? 
• How do I help solve problems for my clients? 

Think about how you want clients to see you and make sure your messaging stays consistent—on your website, social media, and email. The more authentic and clear you are, the easier it will be to connect with your target audience. 

2. Create a Professional Website

A website makes you look more professional and helps people find your business online. These days, it’s easier than ever to set up a website using tools like Wix or Squarespace. 

Your website should include: 

• A clear description of your services 
• Contact info 
• Testimonials or examples of past work 

Need help getting started? MBO shares our website guide with step-by-step instructions on how to create a great website that drives results for your business. 

3. Start a Blog

Blogging is a great way to showcase your expertise and attract more people to your site. Write about topics your clients care about—industry news, helpful tips, or answers to common questions. 

Also, create a content calendar to stay organized and aim to post regularly. Quality matters more than quantity, so focus on writing helpful posts that offer real value. 

4. Contribute Content to Other Channels

Want to reach more people? Try writing for other websites, blogs, or online magazines your ideal clients already read. 

Try to pitch ideas that match your expertise and link back to your site or blog. This not only builds credibility but can also drive more visitors to your business. 

5. Think Local

Independent contractor marketing doesn’t have to be all online. Get involved in your community to raise awareness of your business. Or offer a free workshop, volunteer your skills, or write a column for a local paper. 

You can also team up with nearby businesses for joint events. Local connections often lead to strong word-of-mouth referrals and new clients. 

6. Use Social Networks

Social media is an easy way to stay connected and share updates. Set up a professional profile on platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook and post content that relates to your work. 

Balance business posts with a bit of personality. And don’t just post—interact! Comment on others’ posts, ask questions, and start conversations to build relationships and show your expertise. 

7. Ask for Referrals

Word-of-mouth is powerful. If clients hear about your business from people they trust, it builds credibility and trust in your services. 

Also, be sure to stay in touch with past clients and thank them for their support. Loyal relationships often lead to more projects and new opportunities. 

8. Experiment With Video

Video is a great way to let people see the real you. You don’t need fancy equipment—your phone and some free editing tools are enough to get started. 

Create videos that explain what you do, answer common questions, or share behind-the-scenes moments. Post them on your website or social media to make your marketing more personal and engaging. 

9. Stay in Touch Through Email

Email is still one of the best ways to stay connected with clients. Use a simple form on your site to collect email addresses, then send out updates or helpful tips on a regular basis. 

Remember: Keep your emails clear, short, and useful. A monthly newsletter is a great way to remind people about your services and keep them in the loop. 

10. Take Your Marketing Efforts Offline

Don’t forget about face-to-face connections. Attend meetups, conferences, or local networking events where you can talk about your business in person. 

These events help you build trust, grow your network, and meet potential clients who might not find you online. 

Branding and Marketing for Independent Contractors: Tools and Resources

For more advice on how to create a strong and visible brand for your business, download our guide: Marketing and Branding for Independent Contractors. 

If you’re looking for more independent contractor marketing and branding tips, as well as valuable information to support your journey, such as advice on taxes and financial planning, the MBO blog is the place to visit. Our blog offers expert insights to help you grow your business, navigate challenges, and build a professional brand. Check out the MBO blog now for all the resources you need to succeed as an independent contractor.