# Smart Hustle’s Guide to Marketing: Word-Of-Mouth, Instagram Stories, and Videos
At Smart Hustle, we understand the importance of marketing for small businesses. In fact, a survey we conducted earlier this year revealed that marketing strategy was listed as a top challenge for our readers. To meet this need, we have created a comprehensive guide to marketing that includes actionable advice on word-of-mouth marketing, Instagram marketing, video marketing, and more.
## The Power of Word-of-Mouth Marketing
Word-of-mouth marketing is a powerful tool for small businesses. It is essentially free marketing, where customers are willing and eager to sing your praises based on the positive experiences they’ve had with your company. However, you can’t just rely on great products and services to drum up word-of-mouth marketing. Here are five actionable things you can do to get more people talking about your business:
– Provide excellent customer service: Customers are more likely to recommend your business if they have had a positive experience with your customer service.
– Encourage and incentivize referrals: Offer discounts or other incentives to customers who refer new business to you.
– Build a strong online presence: Make sure your website and social media profiles are up-to-date and engaging.
– Participate in community events: Attend local events and sponsor community organizations to increase visibility and build relationships with potential customers.
– Leverage customer feedback: Use customer feedback to improve your products and services and demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction.
## Instagram Marketing: Making the Most of Instagram Stories
As a newer social media platform, Instagram still has many business owners scratching their heads. However, the launch of “Instagram Stories” is opening up new marketing potential for small businesses. Here’s how you can leverage it for your business:
– Create engaging content: Use eye-catching visuals and clever captions to grab viewers’ attention.
– Use hashtags: Hashtags are a great way to increase visibility and reach new audiences.
– Leverage Instagram Stories: Stories are a fun and engaging way to showcase your products and services, and they disappear after 24 hours, creating a sense of urgency that can drive conversions.
– Partner with influencers: Work with influencers in your industry to reach new audiences and build credibility.
– Run Instagram ads: Instagram ads are a cost-effective way to reach new customers and drive conversions.
## Video Marketing Ideas for Small Businesses
Video marketing is a powerful way to showcase your products and services and connect with potential customers. However, many small businesses aren’t sure where to get started. Here are some specific videos you could create to promote your business:
– Product demos: Show off your products in action to give potential customers a better sense of what you offer.
– Customer testimonials: Use satisfied customers to vouch for your business and build credibility.
– Behind-the-scenes looks: Offer a glimpse into your business operations to give customers a better sense of your company culture and values.
– How-to tutorials: Teach customers how to use your products or services with step-by-step tutorials.
– Event coverage: Showcase your involvement in community events or industry conferences to build credibility and visibility.
## The Importance of Financial Roles for Small Businesses
While marketing is important for any small business, it’s not the only factor that contributes to success. Finance is also a crucial aspect of running a successful business. Here are the three financial roles that every small business needs:
– Accountant: An accountant can help you keep track of your finances, file taxes, and provide other financial advice.
– Bookkeeper: A bookkeeper can help you keep track of your day-to-day finances and ensure that your books are accurate.
– Financial advisor: A financial advisor can help you plan for the future and make smart investments.
Missing any of these roles can have serious consequences for your business, so make sure you have them covered.
At Smart Hustle, we are committed to providing small business owners with the resources and information they need to succeed. We hope this guide to marketing has been helpful, and we welcome your feedback on what other topics you would like us to cover. Check out our website at [SmartHustle.com](http://www.smarthustle.com/) and join the Smart Hustle Community on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/groups/smarthustlegroup/) to stay up-to-date on the latest small business news and advice.
