4 Reasons How Small Business Owners Can Compete With The Big Brands On Social Media

Today, we're setting sail on a voyage that will not only shatter a common misconception but also reignite your passion for conquering the digital seascape. If you feel like the underdog, a small fish in the vast ocean of social media, this one's for you! Towering above you are colossal corporate sharks, equipped with hefty budgets, celebrity endorsements and legions of followers. 

It's easy to feel like a minnow amidst the giants, right? But hold on, because here's a little secret. Size doesn't matter in this digital domain! Yes, it's true that big brands have substantial resources at their disposal. But social media is not just about throwing money at ads; it's about connecting with your audience authentically, and that's where small businesses and start-ups can shine. 

This blog is a celebration of the small business, to show you the possibilities for growth and that you can achieve amazing results as an entrepreneur of a small business by tapping into some vital marketing elements! Here are 4 reasons small businesses can compete with the big brands, and 4 things small businesses need to know to take their business to the next level. 

1. It's easier to tap into your Unique Selling Points (USPs). 

Big brands are often too generic to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of their audience. Think about it; the big players can't replicate the personal touch and uniqueness that your small business brings to the table. Embrace your USPs, whether it's your personalised customer service, handcrafted products or local charm. Share your story and let your audience see the heart and soul behind your brand. Your authenticity will create a bond that even the most colossal corporations can't replicate. 

In the era of online business, tapping into your Unique Selling Points (USPs) has become easier than ever. With the availability of various digital platforms and tools, every business has the opportunity to showcase its distinct features and stand out from the competition. Whether it's highlighting exceptional customer service, innovative products, or a specific target audience, online platforms provide a wide range of channels to effectively communicate your USPs.

By utilising social media platforms, company websites, or email marketing campaigns, businesses can reach a larger audience and emphasise what makes them special. However, it is crucial to make sure you're consistently and authentically representing your USPs across all online channels. This includes crafting compelling content, utilising attractive visuals and engaging with your audience effectively. In the digital landscape, where competition is fierce, leveraging your USPs is an essential strategy to differentiate yourself and build a strong online presence. 

2. As a small business owner, you can tap into your niche with your niche knowledge.

Small businesses can excel by finding their sweet spot in the niche market. As a small business owner, having niche knowledge can be a powerful tool to tap into your market. When creating a business plan, it is crucial to identify your niche and understand it thoroughly. By having expertise in your specific field, you can position yourself as an authority and gain a competitive advantage over larger and more general competitors. Being familiar with your niche enables you to better serve your target audience with specialised products or services that meet their specific needs and preferences.

Additionally, having niche knowledge can help you make informed decisions when it comes to digital marketing. Understanding the language, trends, and behaviors of your niche audience will allow you to create effective marketing campaigns that are tailored to their interests, increasing your chances of attracting and retaining customers. So, do not underestimate the power of your niche knowledge in growing your small business and making it stand out in the market.  

While big brands might be casting a wide net, you have the luxury of focusing like a laser beam on a specific, passionate audience. Your niche knowledge, tailored content and product offerings can make you the go-to source in your field. Take the time to understand your niche audience and avatar, their pain points and desires. Then, curate content that speaks directly to them. 

3. A small business often has greater potential to create more engaging content.

One of your most potent weapons in this battle is engaging content. Big brands might have the budget for flashy ads, but it's often the small businesses that produce the most creative and relatable content. Think outside the box, experiment with different content formats, and show the human side of your brand. From behind-the-scenes videos to customer success stories or fun challenges, engaging content can go viral without a big budget.

Small businesses have the advantage of being able to closely connect with their target audience and understand their needs and preferences. This allows them to tailor their content to meet those specific demands and provide a more personalised experience. Whether it is a local bakery sharing behind-the-scenes footage of their baking process or a boutique clothing store showcasing unique outfit combinations, small businesses have the ability to capture the attention and engage their audience in a genuine way. 

4. Small businesses tend to be better at nailing their Emotional Selling Proposition (ESP).

Small business owners tend to be the best at nailing their Emotional Selling Proposition (ESP). Why? Well, it's simple. People will always need the personalised touch that small businesses can offer so well.

When you understand that it's not just about selling a product or service and about creating an experience that leaves a lasting impact, that's what makes your business the best. You genuinely care about your customers and go above and beyond to make their dreams a reality.

Successful businesses know their audience well and how to tap into their emotions. They don’t see their audience as social media metrics, but as real, living people they’re helping or solving a problem for. When you tell stories that evoke emotions in your audience, and spark their desire for what you’re offering, that’s where the magic happens. At the end of the day, emotions drive buying decisions, and this is an area where small businesses can truly excel. 

With the right mix of strategy, creativity, and elbow grease, not only can you go toe-to-toe with big brands, but you can also ride the social media wave like a pro. Your unique selling points, niche know-how and engaging content can turn you into a force of nature, no matter how colossal the competition may appear.

If you’re frustrated by social media at the moment, take our quiz to discover which of the 5 Social Media Growth blockers is impacting you! Find out YOUR personal Social Media Growth Blocker to make it clearer what you need to do over the coming months to grow your social media presence!