The Gentle Sell: 15 Low-Cost Ways to Market Without Even Trying
Marketing doesn't have to be flashy ads, viral videos, or exhausting content schedules. For small business owners, especially in close-knit communities like Portlaoise, the best kind of marketing can be the kind that doesn't feel like marketing at all.
Here are 15 subtle-but-clever ways to market yourself without spending more time, money or energy than you already have.
1. Reply to Reviews with a Gentle Reminder
Instead of just saying "thank you," use reviews as a chance to highlight something else you offer: "So glad you enjoyed the brownies! Next time, try the peanut butter ones!"
2. Let Your Voicemail Do the Talking
Your voicemail can answer FAQs and softly promote a service: "Hi! We're open Thurs–Sat and yes, we do same-day delivery. Leave a message and we'll get back to you soon!"
3. Pin a 'Did You Know?' Post
Use a pinned Instagram post or story highlight to answer common questions or promote services people often miss: "Did you know we offer refills? Bring your bottle back and save €2."
4. Write a Warm PS in Emails or Notes
A simple "PS" can go a long way: "P.S. We've just restocked the lavender soap. Get yours before it disappears!"
5. Share a Weekly Favourite
Give a quiet product or service its own spotlight. No campaign needed: "This week's favourite: chai oat cookies. Like a hug, but crunchy."
6. Add a Little Note to Your Packaging
Include a thank-you, a reminder, or a future offer: "Thanks for supporting local! Present this card for a free coffee next time."
7. Answer FAQs in Your Captions
Instead of just describing the product, include helpful answers: "Yes, we deliver! Yes, the cake is gluten-free. Yes, it tastes like heaven."
8. Ask for Photos, Not Reviews
Instead of formal reviews, ask customers to tag or DM you a photo using your product. It's easier for them, and great for your content.
9. Highlight What You Don't Do
Sometimes what you don't offer says more about your values than what you do: "We don't rush orders. We don't use plastic. We don't believe in fast fashion."
10. Use a Branded Playlist
Create a Spotify playlist and share it: "What we're listening to while packing your orders". It subtly reinforces your brand personality.
11. Turn Your Workspace Into a Story
Post behind-the-scenes moments: the messy middle, the prep, the quiet in-between. Real life sells better than polish.
12. Create a Conversation Around a Product
"Should we bring this back? Who remembers our first ever candle scent?". These small questions build connection and encourage interaction.
13. Bundle Creatively, Not Expensively
Use what you already have to create gift ideas: "Mug + sachet + handwritten tag = perfect teacher gift".
14. Leave Business Cards in Surprising Places
Tuck one into takeaway bags, pop it in packaging, or leave it with a bowl of sweets on the counter.
15. Thank People Publicly
"To everyone who shopped with us this week: thank you! You keep this little business alive." Gratitude is magnetic.
Marketing doesn't always need to be loud to be effective. Every thank-you note, every caption that answers a question, every kind reply adds up to something powerful: connection. And that's what keeps your customers coming back.