If you own a small business, you’ve probably heard people say you need “digital marketing.”
But what does that actually mean?
Simply put, digital marketing is how you promote your business online.
Instead of using flyers, billboards, or newspaper ads, you use the internet to reach people—where they already are: on Google, Facebook, Instagram, email, and their phones.
Digital marketing helps you get found, build trust, and turn more people into customers—without having to rely only on word of mouth or foot traffic.
And here’s the best part:
Done right, it can be more affordable and more effective than old-school advertising.
Table of Contents
What Digital Marketing Includes
Digital marketing isn’t just one thing. It’s a combination of different tools and strategies that work together.
Here are the basics:
1. Your Website
This is your online home base. It’s where people go to learn about your business, see what you offer, and decide if they want to call, visit, or buy from you.
A good website is clear, easy to use, and built to show up on Google.
2. SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
SEO is how you make sure your website appears when people search for services you offer.
For example, if someone types “best plumber in Johnson City,” SEO helps your site show up near the top.
Without SEO, your site is like a store hidden in a back alley—hard to find.
3. Social Media
Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn help you stay visible to your customers and community.
You don’t have to post every day. But having a simple, active presence reminds people you exist—and makes it easier for them to connect with you.
4. Paid Ads (Like Google or Facebook Ads)
If you want quicker results, paid ads let you show up right away when people are searching for businesses like yours.
You can target specific groups—like people in your city or people searching for certain services.
It’s like putting up a billboard, but you only pay when someone’s interested.
5. Email Marketing
Email is still one of the best ways to stay in touch with customers.
Whether it’s a monthly newsletter, special offers, or helpful tips, email marketing helps you build relationships and stay top of mind.
Why Digital Marketing Matters for Small Businesses
Here’s the truth:
People don’t flip through phone books anymore.
They don’t ask neighbors for recommendations as often.
They Google it.
They scroll Facebook.
They look up reviews before they visit.
If your business isn’t showing up online, you’re missing customers who are already looking for what you sell.
Good digital marketing makes sure they find you—and choose you.
But Isn’t Digital Marketing Expensive and Complicated?
It doesn’t have to be.
At ①-FIND, we specialize in helping small businesses get online the right way without huge costs or confusing tech.
We build simple, clean websites that are ready for SEO.
We help you get noticed on Google and social media.
We offer smart, focused marketing that actually fits your budget and goals.
No giant agency fees.
No getting stuck with things you don’t need.
Just real, practical help.
How to Get Started
If you’re new to digital marketing, here’s the best way to start:
- Get a clean, professional website that shows what you do and how to contact you.
- Make sure it’s SEO-friendly so people in your area can find you.
- Set up your Google Business Profile so you appear on Google Maps.
- Stay active online—even posting once a week on Facebook makes a difference.
You don’t need to do everything at once.
You just need to take the first step—and build from there.
Let’s Make Digital Marketing Easy
If you feel overwhelmed by digital marketing, you’re not alone. Most small business owners feel the same way at first.
That’s why we’re here.
At ①-FIND, we help businesses in Johnson City, Bristol, Piney Flats, and across East Tennessee grow with simple, effective digital marketing.
If you’re ready to get found online—and stop losing customers to competitors—let’s chat.