Social media feels louder than ever. Everyone’s posting, promoting, and trying to go viral. But...
Marketing advice for small businesses usually swings between “start a TikTok” and “build a 10-step funnel” — but what if you just want more customers, more often, without burning out?
This list gives you 20 fast, practical ideas that don’t cost the earth and actually work for local businesses. Whether you run a café, gym, salon, or side hustle — pick a few, try them out, and get the word out without the overwhelm.
1. Turn Every Receipt into a Referral Tool
Add a note, QR code, or printed offer: “Tag us and show this post next time for 10% off.”
2. Write the Post You Wish You Saw Last Week
Think: “3 Things We Wish More Customers Knew,” “Today’s Mood in 1 Photo,” or “Our Least Popular Item (That’s Actually Our Favourite).”
3. Nominate a ‘Local Legend’ of the Month
Pick a regular customer, staff member, or neighbour. Shout them out on Instagram or Facebook — and tag their business if they’ve got one.
4. Run a “Guess the Price / Guess the Dish” Story
Instagram stickers are your friend. Use polls, sliders, or quiz boxes to drive interaction.
5. Add a Story Highlight Called ‘Start Here’
New followers don’t scroll. Use this to show opening hours, FAQs, and best sellers.
6. Drop a “Secret Menu” Post
Something you make off-menu? Tease it. Say it’s available for a limited time or DM-only orders.
7. Leave a Handwritten Note in 3 Orders a Day
“Thanks, you’re awesome.” That’s it. People post that kind of stuff. Word spreads.
8. Share a Short Video Answering 1 Customer Question
No editing. Just hit record, speak human, post it. You can even upload it straight from your BIGR dashboard.
9. Create a $0 Collab with Another Business
For example: “Coffee from us, pastry from them — $10 combo, this weekend only.” No need for fancy partnerships. Just DM a neighbour and make it happen.
10. Pin Your Best Post (That Still Deserves Attention)
That one post from six months ago that was actually good? Pin it to the top of your feed.
11. Start a Photo Series: “From the Counter”
Snap a daily or weekly photo from the same spot. It becomes a mini tradition followers expect.
12. Go Old-School: Flyer Swap or Window Poster
Still works. Especially if you’re in a strip of shops. Promote each other. Win-win.
13. Add a Customer Quote to Your Packaging or Table Cards
“Best service I’ve had in 5 years – Google Review.” Adds proof without being salesy.
14. Give a Name to Your Newsletter or Menu Board
“The Local Drop,” “The Morning Roast,” “Salon Dispatch.” A name makes it feel like content, not spam.
15. Offer a Freebie for Posts — But Make It Fun
“Show us a pic of you with your order and we’ll upgrade your next drink to large.” Not everyone will do it — but some will. And it spreads.
16. Share Your Worst Review (And Respond With Humor)
“This coffee tastes like regret.” Then caption: “Fair — we were low on beans that day.” People love a humble comeback.
17. Make One Day All About Your Regulars
“Regulars Thursday” — snap pics, do shoutouts, post throwbacks. It boosts loyalty and shows new people what kind of crowd you attract.
18. Drop a "Before We Opened" Photo
Show what your shop or team looked like at the beginning. Everyone loves a glow-up.
19. Share a 5-Second Hack Related to Your Product
“Here’s how to fold our pizza box into a plate.” “How to get the most volume from our dry shampoo.”
20. Let BIGR Do the Posting for You
Got ideas but no time? BIGR Social turns your business details into ready-to-post content — image + caption, 16x a week. It feels like you made it. You just didn’t have to.
We’ll help you stay active, on-brand, and ahead of the local competition — all from your phone. Check out the FAQ here or start automating your socials now.
