TikTok ain’t for everybody — and that’s okay.
There, I said it.
This isn’t just about TikTok though. It’s about any platform the internet experts say you should be on. As a small business owner, you need to be where your people are.
When we think about marketing, our minds go straight to social media. The reach. The scale. The dream of going viral. And yes, your business probably needs to be on social — but that’s a conversation for another day.
Don’t Overlook the Basics
Social media might feel like the only game in town — but don’t get it twisted.
Just because there are nail guns doesn’t mean you throw away your hammer.
The hammer still works. It’s simple, reliable, and does the job.
Business cards, phone calls, your website — this is your hammer. Use them.
Are Business Cards Dead?
I thought so.
Until people kept asking me for one.
Now I carry a stack with me, always.
Here’s why: there’s a generation — with money to spend — still value a card in their hand. Especially in the home service world — driveways, pressure washing, pest control, house cleaning.
These folks save cards and pull them out when they’re ready.
If they have your card, you’re literally in their hands when it’s time to buy.
Don’t Sleep on Your Website
I’ll admit — it took us forever to update Lanier Construction’s website.
We finally did it, and the compliments started rolling in.
In public bid work, your website doesn’t win jobs — your number does. But that doesn’t mean people don’t look you up. They do. They check your site. They check your social. And they judge your business based on what they see.
If your website is out of date, you look out of business.
And the truth is — it’s never been easier to launch or update a clean, simple website.
And Yes, Pick Up the Phone
DMs and emails are great, but don’t underestimate the power of a phone call.
People are busy. They see your email, but might not reply. That’s one touchpoint. Call them — that’s two. If they answer, that’s your in.
Some folks don’t love phone calls, sure. But you’re a pro — you can read the room.
Simple Wins
At the end of the day, business is still about people.
People are your customers, your neighbors, your friends.
Marketing doesn’t have to be fancy. It just needs to be consistent.
If you do the basics right — cards, calls, a decent site — the rest tends to fall into place.
💡 Want more simple ideas like this?
I share business insights like this for Main Street entrepreneurs every week. Stay tuned — and feel free to hit reply if something resonated with you.
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