You don’t need a huge budget or a digital agency to succeed online. You just need smart, consistent effort — and a few proven tactics that work especially well in a place like Carterton.
Here are 10 digital marketing tips to help local businesses stand out, connect with customers, and grow online without the overwhelm.
1. Claim Your Google Business Profile
This is local SEO gold. It helps people find you when they search things like “café near me” or “Carterton plumber.”
Add your hours, contact info, photos, and respond to reviews
Tip: Post regular updates like promos or events, it boosts visibility
2. Use Real Photos
Stock images look… like stock images. Local customers love seeing:
- Your team in action
- Behind-the-scenes snaps
- New products arriving
- Events and customers (with permission!)
Authentic = trustworthy.
3. Be Where Your Audience Is
Not every business needs TikTok. But if your customers are on Facebook or Instagram, you should be too.
- Retail? Instagram.
- Services? Facebook.
- B2B or consultants? LinkedIn.
- Farmers’ market stall? All of the above with a smile.
4. Write Like You Speak
Whether you’re posting on social or updating your website, ditch the jargon.
- Keep sentences short.
- Use everyday language.
- Write like you’re explaining to a friend at Carterton’s weekend market.
5. Add a Lead Magnet
Offer something useful in exchange for an email address:
- A free quote
- A downloadable checklist
- A locals-only discount
Then use that list to promote events, products, or updates through email.
6. Create a Simple Content Plan
Avoid social media burnout with a basic schedule:
- Monday: Product feature
- Wednesday: Local tip or behind-the-scenes
- Friday: Customer story or review
Consistency > perfection.
7. Make It Easy to Buy or Book
Whether you’re selling dog treats or accounting services, people need to know:
- What you offer
- How much it costs
- How to buy, book, or contact you
Use clear buttons. Link directly. Don’t make them search.
8. Embrace Video (Just Start Simple)
Video gets attention — and people love seeing familiar Carterton faces.
- Do a 30-second intro to your business
- Film a product unboxing or behind-the-scenes
- Interview a happy customer
No need for fancy gear, just good lighting and your phone.
9. Check Your Website on Mobile
More than half your visitors are likely on their phones.
- Is your text readable?
- Do buttons work?
- Can someone book or call in under 10 seconds?
If not, time for a refresh.
10. Track What’s Working
You don’t need to be a data nerd, just check in monthly:
- What posts got the most likes?
- What emails had high open rates?
- Did anyone actually click that link?
Then do more of what works, and stop what doesn’t.
Need Help With Digital Marketing?
You’re not alone. Many GoCarterton members are figuring it out together.
Come to one of our business events or ask us about local marketers, workshops, and digital tools that actually make sense for small-town business.
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