Tips for Marketing Your Small Business

Before promoting your business, understand who your customers are.

Ask yourself:

• What problem does my product or service solve?
• Who benefits the most from what I offer?
• Where does my ideal customer spend their time (Instagram, TikTok, local events)?

Example: If you’re selling handmade candles, your audience might be college students, gift shoppers, or home decor enthusiasts.

Take Action:
Write down three key characteristics of your ideal customer. This will help you focus your marketing efforts.

Most small businesses grow through social media and online search.

Here’s how to set up your digital storefront:

• Instagram & TikTok: Post engaging content about your products or services
• Google My Business: If you offer local services, claim your free listing
• Etsy, Shopify, or Facebook Marketplace: Sell products online easily
• Hornet Student Marketplace: List your business for free visibility on campus

Pro Tip: Keep your username consistent across platforms so people can find you easily!

Take Action:
Create a business Instagram account today and post an introduction about your business.

Social media is one of the best free tools for promoting a business.

Here’s how to maximize it with the Best Social Media Strategies:

• Show behind-the-scenes content (people love seeing how things are made!)
• Engage with followers – Reply to comments and DMs quickly
• Use trending sounds & hashtags – Helps you reach more people
• Post customer testimonials – Builds trust and credibility

Example: A student selling custom-painted sneakers posts time-lapse videos of their designs on TikTok, gaining thousands of views and new orders.

Take Action:
Post a behind-the-scenes video of your business and use #HornetBiz to connect with other student entrepreneurs.

Teaming up with other small businesses can double your reach without extra effort!

Ways to Collaborate:

• Cross-promote on social media (shoutouts, giveaways, or joint posts)
• Bundle products or services (e.g., a photographer + a custom print shop)
• Join local markets or pop-up events

Example: A student selling handmade jewelry teams up with a candle maker for a “Self-Care Bundle”, bringing in new customers for both businesses.

Take Action:
Find one other student business to cross-promote with this week.

People love a good deal—use promotions to attract first-time customers.

Creative Discount Ideas:

• “First-Time Buyer” Discounts – Offer 10% off for new customers
• Referral Program – Give discounts when customers bring a friend
• Limited-Time Sales – Creates urgency and boosts purchases

Example: A student photographer offers “Graduation Mini-Sessions” at a discount—boosting sales during peak demand.

Take Action:
Create a limited-time offer and post about it on Instagram today.

Social proof increases sales—potential customers trust real reviews over ads.

How to Get More Reviews:

• Ask satisfied customers to leave a review (Google, Yelp, or your website)
• Screenshot and post positive feedback on Instagram
• Offer a small discount in exchange for a testimonial

Example: A student offering tutoring services asks clients to leave a review in exchange for a free study guide—increasing word-of-mouth referrals.

Take Action:
Send a DM or email to your last 3 customers asking for a short review.

Marketing is easier when you have a platform that promotes you! The Hornet Student Marketplace connects Fullerton College entrepreneurs with students, faculty, and the local community.

Why Join?

• Free visibility – Get your business in front of potential customers
• Networking opportunities – Connect with other student entrepreneurs
• Marketing support – Get featured on social media and campus promotions

Pro Tip: Listing your business here can help you gain customers faster than relying on social media alone!

Take Action:
Sign up for the Hornet Student Marketplace today! Register here