Most small businesses start with almost no money for advertising, and that is fine. Many successful Ghanaian sellers grew through Status updates, groups, referrals and good timing before they ever paid for an ad. Shop and sales adverts often list promotions and social media among the duties, so knowing how to market well on a small budget is useful in a job too.
Free and low cost channels
- WhatsApp Status: shown to people in your contacts, depending on the Status privacy settings you choose. Ask happy customers to save your number so they can see it. Post regularly: new stock, a product in use, a happy customer (with permission), and prices.
- Your own groups: church, school, alumni, association and community groups. Share only where selling is welcome, follow group rules, and do not spam.
- Referrals: ask happy customers to tell friends, and thank them when they do, perhaps with a small discount on their next order.
- Social media posts and short videos: free to post, and a good video can travel far.
- Your Google Business Profile: free, and helps nearby people find you.
- Offline still works: a small sign at your stall, a sticker on your parcel with your WhatsApp number, or telling people at the market.
Timing and offers
People buy more at certain times. Plan around them: