What marketing should a small business do beyond SEO?

SEO is a durable channel, but it works best alongside a few others. None of these require a large budget, and together they reduce dependence on any single source of customers.

Email to people who already know you

A simple newsletter or occasional update to past and prospective customers is one of the highest return channels available. You own the list, unlike a social following.

Referrals, made easy

Most small businesses get a large share of customers by word of mouth. Make it easy: ask satisfied customers to refer you, and consider a simple thank-you for those who do.

Local partnerships

Complementary local businesses can refer customers to each other. A photographer and a florist, a plumber and an estate agent. These relationships also earn the local mentions that help SEO.

A clear, fast website

Marketing drives people to your site, and a slow or confusing site wastes that effort. A clear site that loads fast and makes it obvious how to get in touch supports every other channel.

Measure, then focus

Ask new customers how they found you and track it. Within a few months you will know which channels work for you, and you can put more into those.