Let’s be honest: if your business isn’t online, you’re already behind.

Today, customers aren’t flipping through the Yellow Pages, they’re scrolling on their phones. Whether they’re looking for a nearby coffee shop or comparing prices on sneakers, their first stop is the internet. And if your business doesn’t show up, guess who they’ll find? Your competitors.

That’s why digital marketing isn’t a “nice-to-have” anymore, it’s a must.

What Exactly Is Digital Marketing?

Don’t let the word “digital” scare you. Digital marketing simply means using online platforms to connect with customers. Think:

• Social media (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)

• Google ads and search engine visibility

• Email newsletters

• Websites and blogs

• Online reviews and more

It’s how you show up where your audience already is.

But My Business Is Small—Does It Really Matter?

Absolutely. In fact, digital marketing can level the playing field. You don’t need to spend thousands of dollars to make an impact. A well-written Instagram post, a simple website, or a smart email campaign can reach just as many people sometimes more than a billboard or print ad.

Small businesses often build stronger, more personal connections online because people love supporting brands that feel authentic.

What You’re Missing Without It

Let’s break it down. If you’re not doing digital marketing, you’re missing:

• Visibility: Customers can’t find you if you’re not online.

• Credibility: No website or social proof? People may assume you’re not legit.

• Engagement: You miss chances to talk to your audience in real time.

• Growth: Online marketing lets you scale faster, reach wider, and learn what works.

Still not sure? Think about your own habits. When’s the last time you searched for something? Read a review? Watched a YouTube how-to? Exactly. Your customers are doing the same thing.

Start Small, Start Smart

You don’t need to do everything at once. The key is to start somewhere:

• Create a free Google Business profile so people can find you on maps.

• Start an Instagram or Facebook page and post regularly.

• Set up a simple website or landing page with your contact info and services.

• Ask happy customers to leave a review.

Then, explore simple tools like Canva for graphics, Mailchimp for emails, and ChatGPT (hey, that’s me!) for content ideas.

The Best Time to Start Was Yesterday. The Second Best? Right Now.

Digital marketing doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It just needs to be you your voice, your message, your brand shared with the world.

The longer you wait, the more opportunities pass you by. So take that first step. Post that photo. Write that blog. Send that email. Your future customers are already online make sure they can find you.

Your business deserves to be seen. And digital marketing is how it happens.