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How to create a marketing plan for your small business - build a brand, target customers and set prices that will maximise sales.

The internet has transformed business marketing. No matter what you do, the internet is likely to be at the heart of your marketing strategy.

Social media is firmly established as a marketing tool. Having a presence opens up new lines of communication with existing and potential customers.

Advertising allows you to promote your business to potential and existing customers. There are many forms of advertising: direct mail, email marketing, online and print advertising, leaflets, outdoor advertising on billboards and buses or sponsorship.

Customer care is at the heart of all successful companies. It can help you develop customer loyalty and improve relationships with your customers.

Sales bring in the money that enables your business to survive and grow. Your sales strategy will be driven by your sales objectives.

Market research exists to guide your business decisions by giving you insight into your market, competitors, products, marketing and your customers.

PR can be especially cost-effective for small businesses. However, you also need to act quickly to manage any bad press. Discover how you can get media coverage online and via the local press.

Start Your Own Business podcast celebrates 200,000 downloads

10 March 2025

The Start Your Own Business podcast, created by the team behind the Donut small business websites, is celebrating two exciting milestones. The podcast has reached 200,000 downloads in the same week that the 50th episode is released.

Fiona Prior, host of the Start Your Own Business podcast, said, “We’re really excited to reach our 50th episode and 200,000 downloads. We never imagined it would be this successful when we first started out.

“Running your own business is challenging. Overnight, you become captain of your own ship and it’s down to you to keep things afloat. We have spoken to some really inspiring small businesses and leading experts and we have covered the whole gamut of small business topics. Everything you need to know when running your own business. I can’t wait for the new episodes to drop.”

Upcoming episodes feature Gus Bhandal, founder of LinkedIn-first digital and social media marketing agency, The M Guru, Darren Fell, founder and CEO of Crunch Accounting and small-business marketing specialist, Tracy Heatley.

Launched in March 2021, the Start Your Own Business podcast has become a must-listen resource for sole traders and small business leaders here in the UK. Fiona said, “We wouldn’t have reached this point without our fabulous sponsors. This series we’re delighted to be working with investment platform, Lightyear. We also couldn’t have done it without our original host, Chloë Thomas and all the fabulous guests who have given us their time and insights.”

Episode 50 of the Start Your Own Business podcast will be released on 11 March 2025.

Start Your Own Business podcast

Written by Rachel Miller.

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