How Local Businesses Can Use Social Media to Attract New Customers
If you are a local business, social media isn’t just about being ‘online’ - it’s an incredible tool for connecting you with your community and attracting local customers.
Whether you are a coffee shop, a retail outlet, a tradesperson, or another local service provider, tools like Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business can help you to reach your local audience, build relationships and ultimately get you more customers!
Keep reading for some easy-to-action advice on how to make the most out of your presence.
Optimise Your Profiles
The first step to bringing new customers in is making sure that your social media profiles tell people where you are and what you do.
Easy To Action:-
Add Your Location - on both Facebook and Instagram, make sure you include your town or city in your bio - if you’re a physical business, then add your address and opening hours.
Use Location Tags - tag your business location in posts and stories so people can find you when they are nearb.y
Include Clear Contact Details - make it easy for customers to call, DM or visit you by adding clickable links to either your website or booking page.
Use Local Hashtags To Be Found
Hashtags aren’t just about trends - they are a great way to appear in search results by people in your area.
To use hashtags effectively:-
Include local hashtags likes #northamptonsbusiness #NN4local or #yourtownevents
Combine wider hashtags like #shoplocal with more specific ones like #yourtownshop
Research hashtags that your target audience might look for (think about your local area and local events)
Top Tip - Use 5-10 hashtags per post, mixing local and niche options to expand your reach.
Post Local Content That Connects
Your local audience wants to see content that feels relatable and local - focus on telling the story of your business whilst highlighting connections to the area.
Ideas for local content:-
Behind-the-scenes posts - share the people, products and processes that make your business special
Local collaborations - partner with other local businesses for giveaways, joint posts or shoutouts
Events and news - share updates about local events, markets or fairs you might be involved in
Customer Feedback - show happy customers to add a personal touch to your feed
Post Example:-
“We loved seeing so many familiar faces at the NN4 market today! Thanks for stopping by; we really appreciate your support! #NN4local #shopsmall
Engage with your Community
Social media is a two-way street, and engaging with your audience is what turns viewers into loyal customers.
Tips for Engagement:-
Always respond to comments and DMs
Engage with local accounts - follow, like and comment on posts from other local businesses, influencers or community groups.
Use stories and polls - ask questions like ‘what’s your favourite item on our menu?’ or ‘what local events are you attending?’ to encourage interaction
Top Tip - Spend 10-15 minutes daily engaging with local hashtags and nearby businesses to get your business noticed.
Make The Most Out of Google Business
For local businesses, Google Business is a game changer - it’s often the first place people will go to for your location, hours and reviews.
To use Google Business effectively:-
Keep Your Profile Updated - make sure your business name, address, phone number, and hours are accurate.
Post Regular Updates - Share news, events, offers, or photos on your GMB profile. Treat it like an extension of your social media strategy.
Ask your customers for reviews - -positive reviews help you rank higher in local searches and build trust with potential customers. Don’t forget to respond to all reviews (good or bad).
Run Local Ads for Greater Reach
If you’re ready to take things a step further, consider running low-cost local ads on Facebook and Instagram.
Local Ads Tips:-
Target your town to reach customers nearby.
Promote specific offers, like discounts or events, to bring people through your doors.
Use images and videos that showcase your products or business in a recognisable, local setting.
Start Small, Stay Consistent
You don’t need to do everything at once, but a consistent effort on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Google My Business can make a big impact. Start by optimising your profiles, sharing content your community cares about, and engaging with people nearby.
Social media isn’t just about being seen - it’s about building relationships that keep customers coming back.
Need a little help with your strategy? Let’s chat -I specialise in helping local businesses create social media and content that works!
SoCopy are a Northamptonshire-based social media and content marketing business offering done-for-you and coaching for local businesses who want to grow online.