Is Your Marketing Strategy Just Social Media Posting? Time to Think Bigger!

When it comes to marketing, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that posting on social media is enough. You’re posting every day, keeping up with trends, and maybe even getting some engagement—but is that really all your marketing should be? Spoiler alert: It’s not.

In this fast-paced world of digital marketing, relying solely on social media can limit your business’s growth potential. If you're serious about expanding your reach and building a sustainable, long-term strategy, it’s time to think bigger and look beyond the social media bubble.

Here’s the thing: Social media is just one piece of the marketing puzzle. And while it's important, treating it as your only strategy is like trying to build a house with just a hammer. You need more tools.

Why You Need More Than Social Media

Social media platforms are great for connecting with your audience, but they’re just one location where your potential customers might find you. If you really want to grow your business, you need to diversify. Here’s what you should be doing alongside social media to truly amplify your marketing efforts:

1. Get Interviewed on Podcasts Podcasts are a powerful way to get in front of new audiences. Aim to be a guest on at least six podcasts a year where you can share your expertise and invite listeners to connect with you. Whether it’s through a freebie, your website, or your social channels, this strategy opens the door to new relationships.
2. Partner with Other Businesses Collaborations can be game-changing. Partner with non-competing businesses that share your target audience. This could be co-hosting a webinar, cross-promoting products, or running a joint giveaway. It’s a great way to tap into an existing customer base that’s already primed for what you offer.
3. Enter Business Awards Don’t underestimate the marketing power of entering business awards. Even if you don’t win, you can still shout about being a finalist! Use it as a reason to market your business and boost your credibility.
4. Get Featured in the Media Whether it’s a local newspaper, an industry magazine, or a popular blog, getting media coverage can give your business a significant credibility boost. Reach out to journalists with a great story idea and pitch yourself as a go-to expert in your field.
5. Thank Your Customers How often do you thank your customers beyond the standard "thanks for your purchase"? A handwritten thank-you note or even a small gift can go a long way in making your clients feel valued, turning them into loyal fans.
6. Ask for Feedback Instead of relying solely on glowing testimonials, take it a step further and ask your customers for honest feedback. What can you improve? What do they love about your service or product? Their insights could help you level up your business in ways you haven’t even considered.
7. Get Involved in the Community Community involvement isn’t just good for your soul—it’s good for business too. Sponsor local events, support charities, or collaborate with community groups. It’s a way to build goodwill and connect with potential customers in a meaningful way.
8. Leverage Email Marketing Email marketing remains one of the most effective ways to nurture relationships with your audience. Regularly send updates, exclusive content, or personalized offers. Unlike social media, email gives you direct access to your audience without the fear of ever-changing algorithms.
9. Utilize Google My Business If your business isn’t on Google My Business, you’re missing out. It’s a crucial tool for local SEO and helps potential customers find you. Plus, it’s an easy way to gather reviews and boost your credibility.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

In marketing, the numbers 11, 7, and 4 are key. These are the magical numbers you need to make a sale:

• 11 touchpoints
• 7 hours of interaction
• 4 different locations where your potential customers need to see you

So, if social media is just one of those locations, where are the others? By adding podcast interviews, media features, collaborations, awards, and email marketing into the mix, you start to cover those other touchpoints, building trust and rapport with your audience.

Ready to Level Up Your Marketing Strategy?

If the thought of moving beyond social media makes you feel a little uncomfortable, that’s good! Amazing things happen outside your comfort zone. Don’t keep doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. It’s time to take your marketing strategy to the next level.

If you’re ready for more, dive deeper into this topic on my podcast episode, Is Your Marketing Strategy Just Social Media Posting? You’ll hear all about how to stretch your marketing efforts beyond just posting and into new, exciting opportunities for growth.

Listen to the full episode here: Is Your Marketing Strategy Just Social Media Posting?

About Jenn Donovan

Jenn Donovan is a global marketing strategist and one of Australia’s most sought-after speakers on all things marketing and community building. With a deep passion for helping rural and regional small businesses, Jenn has made it her mission to show business owners that marketing doesn’t have to be complicated. She’s the founder of Social Media & Marketing Australia and the viral Facebook Group Buy From a Bush Business, and she co-founded Spend With Us, Australia’s rural marketplace. Jenn is also the author of Small Town Big Impact and hosts the Small Business Made Simple podcast, ranked in the Top 1.5% Globally.

Now, let’s get started on that bigger marketing strategy!