How to Use Social Media to Boost Your Small Business’s Traffic and Sales (Without Losing Your Mind)
Ah, social media. One day, your post is soaring high on the algorithm like a meme from the Grammy's that everyone suddenly forgets about the next day. The next? Crickets. Literal crickets (or at least a single bot comment that just says “Send us your pic! 😍🔥💕”). But as frustrating as it can be, social media remains one of the most powerful tools for small businesses to drive traffic and sales. The key? A strategy that embraces consistency, value, and a touch of humor (because let’s be real, sometimes that’s all that keeps us going).
Here are my top 7 tips for crafting a social media strategy that not only leads to more sales, but creates a sense of community and excitement around every one of your posts.
1. Create Content That People Actually Want to See
WTF do I mean by that? Stop hard selling in every post. People don’t log onto Instagram hoping to be bombarded with “BUY NOW!” messages. That's soooo 2015. Instead, mix in content that educates, entertains, and inspires. Think behind-the-scenes moments, customer success stories, industry tips, or the occasional meme that makes your audience think, “Wow, they really get me.”
2. Be Consistent (Even When It Feels Like No One’s Watching)
I get it—posting regularly when engagement is low feels like telling jokes to an empty room. But consistency is key. Social media platforms love creators who show up regularly, and over time, your audience will too. Set a realistic posting schedule and stick to it. Set aside an hour or two every week to plan and create content. (Don't forget to schedule it!)
How many times should you post? Ideally, I recommend about 4 times per week on a minimum of two different platforms, but that's simply not doable for everyone. Find a rhythm that works for you and your audience--experiment with it!
3. Engagement: The Secret Sauce to More Visibility
Want more people to see your posts? Then it’s time to get social. Respond to comments, reply to DMs, and engage with your audience’s content. "But I don't get many comments on my posts, if at all..." Engage with other local accounts, influencers, and wherever you feel your ideal customer is hanging out on social. (Don’t forget about commenting on stories!) Social media is a two-way street--the more active you are, the more favorably the algorithm will treat you. Plus, it helps build real relationships with potential customers.
4. Leverage Video (Yes, Even If You Hate Being on Camera)
I'll say it once and I'll keep saying it, video content is king right now, whether it’s Instagram Reels, TikToks, or YouTube Shorts. If being on camera makes you break out in a nervous sweat, don’t worry—there are plenty of creative ways to use video. Try voiceovers, product demos, event footage, or even text-based CapCut memes. The key is to keep it engaging, snappy, and valuable.
5. Use Calls to Action That Feel Natural
When you do go in for the hard (ish) sell, instead of a generic “Check out our website,” make your call to action (CTA) feel more conversational. Try “Snag yours before they’re gone!” or “DM us for a free recommendation!” Make it feel like you’re chatting with a friend rather than shouting into the void of the internet. Leverage tools like Manychat to not only help increase post engagement, but deliver links easily to your followers.
And since social media is such an awareness-driven platform, you could also forgo sales-focused CTAs and entice your audience to join your email list. An email list is good insurance for if something ever happened to your account, or a social media platform disappeared (IYKYK). An email list is yours. I use Flodesk to provide my audience with more tips, and insights.
6. Track What’s Working (and What’s Not)
Social media success isn’t about guessing—it’s about analyzing. Check your analytics to see what types of content drive the most engagement, reach, etc. Set up UTM tracking using Google Analytics to see if sales are coming from social, or somewhere else. Do more of what works and tweak (or ditch) what doesn’t. Just remember, one flopped post doesn’t mean failure. Even the best creators have their fair share of duds.
7. Give It Time (and a Little Patience)
Social media isn’t a magic wand—it’s more like a slow cooker. You have to put in the ingredients (relatable content, consistency, trending audio) and let it simmer. Also, social is meant to be social! Don't just hit "post" and never engage with anyone. Over time, you’ll start to see growth, traffic, and sales. Keep going, keep testing, and most importantly, keep showing up.
Final Thoughts: Keep Creating, Keep Showing Up
Yes, social media is unpredictable. Yes, the algorithm can feel like a fickle overlord. But at the end of the day, the businesses that win on social media are the ones that don’t give up. Keep creating, keep engaging, and keep providing value. The results will come—just maybe not overnight (unless you somehow go viral, in which case, congrats!)
Now, go plan, post, and be social with confidence!
