Do All Small Businesses Need Digital Marketing?
by Tony Polatty | Saltgrass Marketing
Tight Budget?
If you’re a small business owner, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is:
“Do I really need to invest in digital marketing?”
The short answer? Yea… but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank!
How much you spend and where you start can make all the difference.
Why Digital Marketing Matters
People expect to find you online.
Before they call, message, or visit, most people:
Google your business
Check your reviews
Scan your website or social media
And they make snap decisions based on what they find (or don’t find).
Even if you run a small, locally-focused business.. your digital presence builds credibility and connection with your current and potential customers.
The good news is that digital marketing doesn’t have to mean big ad spend... It just has to be strategic.
Is it Always a Good Investment?
The honest truth… not always.
Spending money on Facebook or Google ads before you have a clear offer, a decent online presence, or a way to capture leads can be a waste. But investing in a strong digital foundation, even if you DIY, will set you up for long-term growth and success.
A smart $500 foundation will provide A LOT more value than a porrly thought out $5,000 ad campaign.
If you're not ready to hire a marketer, there’s still a bare minimum you need to accomplish.
The Bare Minimum for Every Small Business
Focus on these five essentials to make your business discoverable, trustworthy, and easy to contact:
1. Google Business Profile (GMB)
It’s free and vital for local search.
Add your address, hours, services, and photos.
Ask customers to leave a review.
Show up on Google Maps when people search nearby.
2. A Basic, Mobile-Friendly Website
Use a tool like Squarespace, Wix, or WordPress.
Include these essentials:
Who you are
What you offer (What differentiates you)
How people can reach you
Add clear calls to action like “Book Now” or “Request a Quote.”
3. Claim Your Social Handles
Secure your business name on Instagram and Facebook at a minimum.
Post 3–5 evergreen updates so your page doesn’t look inactive.
Link to your website and keep contact info up to date.
4. Simple Contact Form or Email Capture
Let people easily ask a question, request a quote, or join a mailing list.
Even if you’re not running email campaigns yet, you’ll be glad you started collecting leads early.
5. Consistent Messaging
Have a short, clear sentence or two that explains what you do and who you help.
Use it on your website, social bios, and even in person. Keep your tone and voice consistent… this builds your brand.
Start Small, Grow Smart
If your budget’s tight, don’t ignore digital marketing… just start small and grow smart.
Build a strong foundation, focus on being findable and trustworthy online, and grow from there.
When you're ready to take things to the next level, Saltgrass Marketing is here to help.
New or growing business? Not sure what to do next?
Fill out the form below and we’ll reach out to assess your situation and provide you with strategies to meet your needs!
