Top 7 Digital Marketing Tactics Every Small Business Should Use

If you're a small business owner trying to stand out online, digital marketing can feel like  a full-time job — with no paycheck. But when you use the right strategies, it becomes  the engine that drives your leads, sales, and growth.  

Here are 7 powerful tactics you should be using in 2025.  

1. Nail Your Instagram Reels Strategy  

Reels are still king for organic reach.  

✅ Keep it under 7 seconds  

✅ Use bold text and fast cuts  

✅ Open with a “stop scroll” hook (problem, question, or stat)  

Consistency is more important than going viral.  

2. Start Building an Email List (Now!)  

Social platforms change. Your list is forever.  

Offer a freebie your audience can’t resist — like a checklist, script, or workbook. Use  MailerLite, Flodesk, or ConvertKit to get started.  

Send weekly emails that:  

• Share tips  

• Tell stories  

• Promote your offer  

3. Optimize Your Bio Like It’s a Sales Page  

Your Instagram bio should clearly say:  

• Who you help 

• What you help them do  

• How they can take action (DM, link, etc.)  

✅ Use emojis and line breaks  

✅ Include a call to action: “�� Grab the free checklist”  

4. Use Story Highlights to Showcase Your Brand  

Create highlights that function like a website:  

• “Start Here”  

• “Client Wins”  

• “Free Guide”  

• “How to Work With Me”  

Think of your profile as a mini funnel.  

5. Create One High-Converting Landing Page  

Ditch the homepage — start with a landing page that sells. Tools like Leadpages,  Systeme.io, or even Canva websites are perfect for beginners.  

Include:  

• Headline  

• Pain point  

• Testimonial 

• CTA button  

6. Retarget Visitors with Meta Ads  

Set up a simple pixel-based ad targeting visitors who didn’t opt in or buy. Offer them a  free resource or low-ticket item.  

�� This often cuts lead cost by 50% or more.  

7. Use Content Pillars to Streamline Posting  

Pick 3–5 categories and rotate content. For example:  

• Tips + How-Tos  

• Behind-the-scenes  

• Offers  

• Client Wins  

• Thought Leadership  

Use a content calendar tool like Notion or Later to stay consistent.  

Final Thoughts  

Digital marketing isn’t about doing everything. It’s about doing the right things  consistently. Start with one tactic, master it, and build from there.  

CTA  

Follow @carlamariabruno and @ottawareels for more digital strategy insights, or email  contact@carlamariabruno.com for personalized support.