10 Smart Ways to Get Your Small Business Seen and Set Up for Long-Term Success
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Starting anything new can feel like trying to be heard in a room full of noise. Whether it’s a blog, an Etsy shop, or a small business… someone else is already doing something similar. And probably even doing it really well!
That can feel SO intimidating, especially when you’re staring at a blank website page or prepping your first Etsy listing.
But here’s the truth you shouldn’t overlook:
The market being crowded means the market exists!
There’s demand. There’s money being spent.
There’s proof that it works.
Your job?
Don’t get discouraged! Get strategic.
In this post, I’m sharing 10 powerful, beginner-friendly ways to help your brand stand out online. Even if you’re new, not techy, or feel totally overwhelmed right now.
Ready? Let’s dive right in…
1. Start With a Crystal-Clear Niche
This is huge. One of the biggest reasons people get lost in a saturated market is because they’re trying to attract everyone.
You might think…more eyes must mean more sales.
This is actually not the case!
Instead:
- Focus on solving one specific problem.
- Speak directly to a specific person.
- Get known for one thing before expanding.
Example: Instead of “I sell planners,” try: “I sell digital ADHD planners for overwhelmed stay-at-home moms.”
👉🏼 Need help refining your niche? Grab your free guide: “5 Mistakes New Mompreneurs Make + What to Do Instead” →
2. Look More Professional from Day One
Let’s be honest…looks matter online! Your brand doesn’t need to be perfect, but it should look polished, intentional, and consistent across ALL platforms.
That means:
- A cohesive color palette and fonts
- Clear messaging and product descriptions
- Matching visuals across Etsy/Instagram/your site, etc.
👉🏼 Branding does NOT have to be hard (or expensive). I offer affordable branding kits on Etsy to help you look like a pro instantly → Shop here
3. Create a Homepage That Converts
A common mistake? Focusing only on aesthetics instead of user experience. Your homepage should clearly answer:
- Who you help
- What you offer
- How to take the next step (buy/book/download)
💻 Using WordPress or Shopify? Both platforms make it easy to build gorgeous, high-converting websites, even as a beginner.
4. Master your Micro-Content
You don’t need to go viral to build an audience! Instead of trying to do everything, focus on creating “bite-sized” content that teaches, inspires, or entertains your niche.
Examples:
- 15-second Instagram reels
- Quick Pinterest infographics
- Value-packed email tips
Pro Tip: Repurpose 1 piece of content across multiple platforms. Work smarter, not harder!
5. Focus on Search Engines from the Start
One of the biggest things people overlook? SEO.
You can have the prettiest site in the world, but if it’s not optimized for search, no one will find it.
Start with:
- Blog posts targeting long-tail keywords (like “how to get your small business seen online”)
- SEO-optimized Etsy product titles and tags
- Pinterest pin descriptions that use natural search terms
Not sure where to even begin?
Try tools like Ubersuggest, EverBee (for Etsy), and Pinterest Trends to find high-traffic, low-competition keywords.
You can also go the old fashioned route and do some manual keyword searching on Google. Check out the “people also searched” section at the bottom to find other common search terms.
6. Lean into Your Story (People Buy from People)
YOU are your best asset.
Your journey, your perspective, your style and your mission…that’s your unique, secret strength. Don’t hide it!
Ideas:
- Share why you started your business
- Show behind-the-scenes content
- Let people see the face (or values) behind the brand
Bonus tip example: I love using PiqueLife Matcha & tea in my morning routine. (seriously, every morning.)
Showing personal routines like this adds authenticity (and it’s an affiliate-friendly share too!) →
7. USE Strong Product Photography
For Etsy sellers and service providers, visuals are everything! And you don’t need a professional camera. Just great lighting, your iPhone, and a few Canva mockups can go a long way.
Tips:
- Use natural light near a window
- Keep your background clean and consistent
- Showcase multiple angles or use cases
Need help with templates?
👉🏼 My branding kits come with customizable Canva templates so your posts, pins, and product shots are always ready to go!
8. Build an Email List Early
Email marketing still has the highest ROI of any platform. And unlike social media, YOU own your list!
Start with:
- A freebie (like a guide, checklist, or discount code)
- A simple landing page (try Flodesk, MailerLite, or a Shopify plug-in)
- A welcome email with personality!
Bonus Tip: Create a dedicated email opt-in page for your freebie. Then pin it, post it, and promote it all over!
9. Partner, Don’t Compete
There’s room for all of us. I promise! Collaboration is one of the fastest ways to grow, while a scarcity mindset is a quick way to fail.
Ideas:
- Guest blog posts
- Shoutouts with aligned small biz owners
- Bundle offers with complementary sellers
Stop seeing others in your niche as competition. Think of them as future collab opportunities and even friends!
10. Keep Going. Show Up. Be Consistent.
This is the most powerful advice I can give: Be more consistent than you are motivated.
Motivation comes and goes, NO one is always motivated. Consistency and discipline is where you need to be.
You don’t need to go viral.
You just need to show up.
Regularly. Authentically. With value.
And that’s how you stand out.
Let’s Recap:
How to Stand Out in a Crowded Market
✔️ Niche down + speak to one person
✔️ Look polished with intentional branding
✔️ Build a website that converts
✔️ Share value-packed content across platforms
✔️ Optimize for search
✔️ Use your story to build trust
✔️ Take your visuals seriously
✔️ Build and nurture your email list
✔️ Collaborate with others
✔️ Stay consistent, not perfect
Ready to Stand Out Like a Pro?
Need help pulling your brand together? Check out my Etsy shop for affordable branding kits, custom logo design, and and more.
→ Shop CRAFTEDbyJeanna
💌 Want more tips like this? Get your free guide: “5 Mistakes New Mompreneurs Make + What to Do Instead” → Opt in here
Follow along for more behind-the-scenes, encouragement, and small business marketing tips…
Pinterest → @craftedbyjeanna
Instagram → @craftedbyjeanna
You’ve got this, and I’ve got your back. Don’t loose that consistency. Keep going!
Contact me below with any questions, branding requests, or just to chat about your brand!
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