What is Content Marketing – and Why Your Small Business Should Be Doing It (Like, Yesterday!)

Alright, small biz legends—let’s talk about content marketing.

Maybe you’ve heard the term thrown around, but you’re not quite sure what it is. Or maybe you’re already dabbling in it but don’t really have a plan (kinda like when you’d record your favourite songs off the radio but always missed the first few seconds). Either way, you’re in the right place!

Content marketing is the way to build trust, attract customers, and grow your business without being a pushy, in-your-face salesperson. Think of it like the ultimate slow burn—like how you went from casually liking that one 80s song to full-blown obsession (looking at you, "Take On Me").

Let’s break it down and show you why content marketing is the keytar solo your small business needs. 🎸

What is Content Marketing? (A.K.A. How to Make People Love You Before They Even Buy From You)

Content marketing is all about creating and sharing valuable, relevant, and engaging content to attract and retain your ideal customers. Instead of just shouting "BUY FROM ME!" (which, let’s be real, nobody likes), you provide helpful info, answer questions, and show off your expertise.

It includes things like:

• Blog posts (like this one—meta, right?)

• Social media content (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn—wherever your audience hangs out)

• Videos (because sometimes people just wanna watch and not read)

• Podcasts (for those who prefer learning on the go)

• Email newsletters (keeping your peeps in the loop)

The goal? To build trust, entertain, educate, and keep your audience coming back for more.

Why Should Small Businesses Care? (Besides, Like, Not Wanting to Be Invisible?)

Content marketing isn’t just for big brands with massive budgets. It’s actually perfect for small businesses because it helps you compete with the big dogs—without needing a huge ad budget. Here’s why you should be all in on content marketing:

1. Because Nobody Likes a Cold Sales Pitch

Think about it—would you rather buy from someone who’s been sharing helpful, interesting content for months or some rando who popped up out of nowhere yelling “BUY NOW” like an overenthusiastic car salesman? Content marketing helps you build relationships so that when people do need your service, you’re the obvious choice.

2. Because Google Loves It

The more quality content you create, the more chances you have to show up in search results. That means more people finding your biz organically—which is basically the marketing equivalent of winning a free pizza for life.

3. Because It Positions You as the Expert (A.K.A. The Yoda of Your Industry)

Want people to see you as the go-to person in your field? Content marketing is how you do it. When you consistently share insights, tips, and industry knowledge, you’re proving you know your stuff—and people love working with experts.

4. Because It Keeps You Top of Mind (Like That Song You Can’t Stop Humming)

People don’t always buy right away. But if you’re consistently showing up in their feed, inbox, or search results, guess who they’ll think of when they are ready? (Hint: You!)

5. Because It Works While You Sleep (Totally Bodacious, Right?)

A blog post, video, or podcast you create today can keep attracting new clients for months (or even years). Unlike paid ads that stop the moment you stop spending money, content marketing keeps working behind the scenes—like a trusty cassette tape on repeat.

Ready to Rock Your Content Marketing?

If your business isn’t using content marketing, you’re totally missing out. The good news? It’s never too late to start. And the even better news? We can help.

At Shout Aloud, we create content strategies that make small businesses shine brighter than a neon sign. Whether you need blogs, social media, or a full-blown content plan, we’ve got your back.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s turn your content marketing up to 11 and get your business like, totally famous! 🚀