Marketing without Social Media: 11 ways I grew my business outside Instagram
Do you ever have the urge to just delete all your apps and live life without social media?
Of course, you do.
But you run a business— marketing without social media isn’t really attainable…. or is it?!
The idea that businesses can’t thrive without grinding on social media is what I like to call toxic social media hustle culture.
Plus, you’re a business owner— not a content creator.
Who TF has time to create content every day AND serve clients?
Even if you sell digital or physical products, depending on social media alone will burn you out real quick.
Within two years of running this company, I realized that I didn’t want to post 3-7 times per week on multiple social media platforms just to keep my business afloat.
Now, I post once per week (or less). And my clients don’t use social media at all.
If you feel drained from having to post constantly and just want a damn break, this is what you’re gonna do:
5 Ideas for Marketing Without Social Media
I’m not here to knock social media—but let’s get real: most people use it all wrong.
Social media is meant to build your community (or, as I like to call it, Your Brand Fandom).
It’s not about posting daily and crossing your fingers that the right people will magically find you (or that one viral post will change your life overnight).
That’s why my top recommendations for marketing your business without social media are simple:
Become known for one thing
Network
SEO your website
Email marketing
Create SEO content
1. Become Known
To stand out in a crowded market, you need to become known for something specific.
Here’s how you’re gonna do that:
Step 1: Establish yourself for ONE service or ONE product
I became known for SEO, but other copywriters have become known for their brand voice or sales expertise.
Some photographers are known for teaching you how to pose, and others are known for their style of photography (e.g., golden hour photography)
Pick one part of your process that you do REALLY well (or pick a specific product) and own it.
The more specific, the better!
Step 2: Have a repeatable message or a brand aesthetic people will remember
Create a memorable vibe that people can identify easily.
This could be something as simple as having a consistent visual style (think fonts, logo, and color palette) or always wearing a particular color to networking events.
Imagine people saying, “Do you know the girl at those networking events who always wears baby blue? She does SEO, right?”
Having a memorable message (like this) is also a simple trick that keeps you top of mind!
Step 3: Get in smaller circles
It’s a LOT easier to become well-known in smaller, more intimate circles.
It’s just easier to build trust and personal relationships that way.
Look for local groups or niche communities where you can start building your reputation.
Which brings me to…
2. Networking
If you’re not using social media to market your business, you need to create or join something that fosters community.
Option 1: Business cards
This is small, so it’s not going to make or break your business. Just a little extra, effortless marketing.
Business cards are an easy way to throw your name out there— literally.
I throw a pile of my business cards on every table I see that is full of business cards (like the one at my favorite pizza shop and the business card table at my gym).
I like to use guerilla marketing for my business cards. It’s eye-catching and forces them to take action because their curiosity gets the better of them.
Option 2: Local groups
The go-to suggestion you’ll always hear is to join your local Chamber of Commerce or BNI.
Maybe even attend those painfully awkward monthly networking groups armed with a stack of business cards.
Honestly, for many small businesses, these can be a great starting point for building confidence, connections, and word-of-mouth referrals.
Personally? I hate these kinds of groups. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but they just give me the ick.
Plus, if you’re running a product-based business or selling digital products, these in-person meetups don’t make much sense anyway.
Option 3 (my favorite): Join a membership
That’s why I recommend joining online memberships instead.
Not only are online memberships one of the most affordable ways to get your business name out there, but they’re also packed with like-minded entrepreneurs who actually get what you’re doing.
They offer networking opportunities, resources, and support tailored to your business type—without the awkward coffee chats or feeling out of place.
For example, I joined Babe Crafted in 2020, just six months into starting my business. Over the past four years, I’ve seen a 300% ROI because I get at least one client from this group every single year.
Why It’s Beneficial
Referrals galore: These groups are full of people who are eager to share leads with others they trust.
Opportunities to host workshops: I’ve taught SEO for Babe Crafted members both in-person and online. Not every membership offers this, so if this is something you really want to do, make sure it’s an option in the one you join. Teach what you know, establish yourself as an expert, and connect with potential clients in a meaningful way.
Collaborations galore: It’s much less nerve-racking to collaborate within a supportive community. You could get on a fellow member’s podcast, write guest blog posts, or co-host a Zoom challenge.
When looking for a community to join, I recommend:
Monthly payment options: It’s a low-risk way to test if the group is the right fit for you.
Less niche groups: Instead of a membership for social media managers (which might limit referrals to those in your area), opt for a broader group that covers various industries.
Local options: Even if the group is mostly virtual, some offer annual meetups or weekly digital networking events that help foster deeper connections.
At the end of the day, these memberships embody the “community over competition” mindset.
And that’s where real growth happens.
Option 4: Collaborate
Teaming up with others in your industry or in adjacent fields opens the door to more exposure.
Guest write on a big website: Leverage your expertise by guest blogging on larger websites. This gives you a platform to share your knowledge and introduces your brand to a wider audience. I don’t recommend guest blogging for your fellow entrepreneurs or content creators because this rarely gets the impact it needs for the amount of time you’ll put into the blog. Instead, try…
Podcast guest: Being a guest on a podcast allows you to showcase your expertise and connect with new listeners who may not have heard of you before.
Host a live workshop: Offering a live workshop or webinar is a great way to share your knowledge, answer questions, and build relationships in real-time.
PR: Public Relations is all about getting your name out there in credible spaces. Pitch yourself as a resource for journalists looking for expert commentary in your field.
3. SEO Your Site
Let’s say you’re a social media manager trying to get clients.
Creating content on Instagram about “how to grow on Instagram” or “how my client 4x their reach this month” are super intriguing— but they’re not attracting “I’m ready to hire a social media manager now” type of clients.
One of your followers might be sold on this content (especially if they’ve been around for a while or you happen to go viral) and reach out to you to book your services.
But it’s not likely.
Here’s how I know:
“How to grow on Instagram” is educational content. This is the stuff DIYers want to see.
“How my client 4x their reach this month” is authority/storytelling content. It is designed to sell, but you’re at the mercy of the Instagram algorithm. How many followers are going to see that post? Out of everyone who sees it, how many are even ready to hire you?
Wouldn’t it just be easier if you could somehow reach people who are ready to drop $1-2K on your service (or buy a buttload of your products)?
That’s the good news— you absolutely can!
That’s where SEO on your website comes into play.
Think about this: when someone searches “social media manager for interior designers” they are ready to hire someone.
So, when your website shows up in their search, not only did you not have to do anything to get that client, you look hella credible.
My copy template, SEO Your Sales, shows you how to pick the right keyword so you show up on Google and shows you how to write copy that will make your dream client hit that “Apply Now” button half-way down your sales page.
For now, here’s the simple overview of how it’s done:
4. Email Marketing
There are a bunch of articles about the average email conversion rate, and they all say something slightly different.
On average, though? Email conversion rates are between 2-5%! That means they’ve opened your emails, clicked on a link to your sales page, and made a purchase.
Here’s how email marketing’s conversion rate compares:
SEO: 2-5% average conversion rate.
Social Media: 0.5-3% average conversion rate.
Email Marketing: 15-20% open rate, 1-5% click-through rate, 2-5% conversion rate.
There are different ways to do email marketing, but if you’re selling a digital or physical product, here’s how you can start:
Create a freebie: A lead magnet (like a downloadable checklist or 10% off your product) will entice people to sign up for your email list.
Write your welcome sequence: After someone subscribes, give them a warm introduction to your brand and what they can expect. This is a great opportunity to showcase your personality and expertise, or products
But for service-based businesses?
Just straight up invite them to join your newsletter for once-per-week tips on [insert your industry here].
If they’re interested in the service you offer (and they like your vibe), they’ll sign up.
But how do you even get email subscribers when you’re marketing without social media?
You create SEO content.
5. SEO Content
I purposefully didn’t say SEO blogs because blogs aren’t the only type of SEO content (though, as a writer, they’re my personal fave).
SEO content is all about taking one main keyword (ONE!!!) and crafting long-form content around it—think breakdowns, guides, or tutorials.
The beauty of SEO content? You really only need to create one (ONE!!!) piece of high-quality content per week.
Talk about cozy marketing.
But here’s the thing: if you pick a format you don’t enjoy creating, the process will feel like a chore.
Creating content should be fun!
So, I created this handy guide on how to choose what type of SEO content to create based on your personality + your industry.
Visual Creatives: Pinterest SEO
If your business thrives on visuals, Pinterest should be your go-to platform for SEO content.
The platform is uniquely suited to industries that depend on strong, visual imagery, making it easier for your ideal clients to discover your work.
Pinterest SEO is powerful because it’s a search engine at heart, which means it can drive long-term traffic and visibility.
Unlike Instagram, which is more about the immediate feed, Pinterest allows your content to remain discoverable for months or even years.
Here are some industries that benefit from Pinterest SEO:
Photography: Showcase your portfolio and creative work to attract potential clients who are searching for inspiration for your style of photography.
Graphic Design: Pin your designs or tutorials, targeting businesses or individuals in need of visual branding.
Interior Design: Share room makeovers, mood boards, or how-to guides for creating stylish spaces.
Fashion: Post seasonal lookbooks, styling tips, or fashion inspiration to attract a loyal following.
Travel: Share destination guides, packing lists, or itinerary suggestions.
Personality Fit:
If you’re a detail-oriented person who actually enjoys crafting eye-catching visuals, Pinterest is your playground.
But if you’re like me and it takes you 2 hours to create an Instagram carousel graphic— maybe choose a different type of SEO content.
Plus, Pinterest's evergreen nature allows for content to continue driving traffic long after it's published—perfect for creatives who don’t want to post every day but still want consistent engagement.
Affiliate Marketers:
Additionally, if you’re someone who loves recommending products (like Amazon finds), Pinterest can be a great source of affiliate income. I’ve posted a video on TikTok about a product I created three years ago, and I’m still seeing affiliate sales roll in!
Even if you’re selling products you don’t make, Pinterest is an excellent tool for monetization through affiliate links.
Writers: SEO Blogs
If you’re more of a wordsmith than a designer or video creator, SEO blogs are your best bet.
Blogs are perfect for service-based businesses or industries that require detailed explanations, storytelling, or expertise.
Writing allows you to dive deep into topics and target long-tail keywords, which can help you rank for specific queries your audience is actively searching for.
Industries That Benefit from SEO Blogs:
Coaching or Consulting: Share your expertise in a way that builds trust and authority, driving potential clients to your services.
Health & Wellness: Whether it’s fitness, mental health, or nutrition, blogs allow you to educate, engage, and provide valuable resources to your audience.
Legal or Financial Services: Write informative guides on laws, taxes, or financial advice that will bring clients who need your professional services.
Tech: Share tutorials, reviews, and industry news to help build an audience that relies on your knowledge.
B2B Businesses: SEO content helps companies establish authority in their industry, making them more likely to be trusted by potential clients.
Personality Fit:
Blogs are perfect for introverts or anyone who enjoys taking their time to write and refine their thoughts.
If you prefer to communicate through writing rather than video or social media posts, SEO blogs give you the space to show off your expertise without the pressure to be on camera or constantly post.
The beauty of SEO blogs is that they can bring in organic traffic with minimal ongoing effort, unlike social media which requires daily posting.
Blogs work while you sleep, driving consistent traffic to your website and helping you rank for relevant keywords.
Yappers: TikTok, YouTube, or Podcast SEO
If you love talking and sharing your thoughts with the world, you might be a perfect fit for TikTok, YouTube, or a podcast.
TikTok and YouTube are both SEO platforms, and you can create blog posts for your podcasts so they can be discovered online!
This type of content requires more personality and energy but can generate a massive following if you approach it with a clear SEO strategy.
Industries That Shine on TikTok, YouTube, or Podcasts:
Lifestyle Influencers: Share tips on everything from daily routines to life hacks—creating SEO-optimized content that shows up for targeted searches.
Education: Whether it’s academic subjects, self-help, or skill-building, these platforms allow you to reach an audience eager for knowledge.
Fitness: Post workout tutorials, fitness challenges, or wellness advice to attract people looking for health-focused content.
Entertainment: Create engaging, fun content that blends entertainment with SEO-driven topics. For example, movie reviews or pop culture commentary.
Personal Development: Share personal growth tips, success stories, or motivational talks to connect with an audience seeking self-improvement.
Personality Fit:
This format is ideal for extroverts or people who feel comfortable on camera.
If you enjoy being in the spotlight and love expressing yourself verbally, YouTube, TikTok, or podcasts are great platforms.
Even though TikTok is social media, you can take an SEO-first approach to your content by focusing on keywords that match what your audience is searching for. With YouTube and podcasts, you can post content less frequently (think once a week) and still see big results.
The Bottom Line
The key to choosing the right SEO content type is aligning it with both your industry and your personality.
Pinterest SEO is perfect for visually-driven industries where aesthetics are important.
SEO Blogs are ideal for writers or industries that require in-depth content, like consulting, tech, and health.
TikTok, YouTube, and Podcasts are great for those who love to yap and can film at least 1 video per week.
Wanna learn how to create SEO content for any platform so you can reach more of the right people (while posting less)? My membership SEO Storytellers is all about dat life.
Your Step-by-Step Strategy To Marketing Without Social Media (Based on Your End Goal)
Knowing how to grow your business without social media all starts with reverse engineering your goals.
So, let me give you a step-by-step strategy based on your end goal.
Goal: Get more high-ticket clients
Step 1: Write an SEO copy for your service pages (using SEO Your Sales) so your services show up on Google. Use sales psychology in your copy to get them to contact you.
Step 2: Collaborate or attending networking events (in-person or in your online membership) 1x per month
Step 3: Create SEO content (see above to determine what type of SEO content to create based on your personality and industry).
Bonus: List your services in local directories or on freelance sites like Upwork.
Goal: Sell digital or physical products
Step 1: Write SEO copy for your sales page (using SEO Your Sales) and your product pages (sign up to get notified when SEO Your Shop comes out!).
Step 2: Create a freebie (a template that pairs with your digital product or a coupon code for your physical products)
Step 3: Create a welcome sequence for your freebie
Step 4: Pinterest SEO (especially for digital products & aesthetic-based businesses like jewlery, photography, etc).
Bonus 1: Create SEO content (TikTok, YouTube, or podcast if you’re a Yapper; blogs if you’re a Writer)
Bonus 2: Run ads (only IF Steps 1-3 are done and your copy is fireeeee)
RELATED: Why You Shouldn’t Run Ads— Yet.
My Clients’ Cozy Marketing Success Stories
Yes, you can market your business without social media.
And writing SEO blogs once per week is my favorite way to it!
You don’t believe me, do you?!
Let my clients show you their results:
Stephen hasn’t posted online since 2021
Stephanie hasn’t written blogs since 2022, but still shows up for
“breath coach”
Nick doesn’t get any traffic from his occassional Facebook posts— all 3k visits come from his blogs
Dr. Lasry quit running ads within 3 months of working with me. It would cost 6 figures in ad spend to get the same amount of traffic I get him organically.
TLDR;
If you’re really interested in marketing without social media, learning SEO and community building is your best bet.
Learn how to grow your business with SEO in my FREE Guide: Grow with SEO
