“Marketing agency? That is only for the big ones...”
You often hear this sentence from small companies, practices or self-employed people. No wonder: Many have already experienced how to transfer money to an agency — and in the end, nothing comes of it. “Website doesn't bring in inquiries”, “Writing texts costs a lot but doesn't bring customers”, “Agency too expensive, nothing happens” — these are real experiences that last.
This leads to a typical fear: online marketing is a luxury. Something that only corporations can afford. And that's why many try it out for themselves. You tinker with your own website, make posts on social media, hand out flyers, hope for recommendations. But at some point, disillusionment comes: Either no customers get in touch at all, or the wrong people get in touch.
The mistake: All or nothing
The problem isn't that marketing doesn't work. The problem is the idea that you have to buy an entire “all-round carefree package” right away. As if just a complete contract would help: social media, SEO, ads, newsletter, new website — all at the same time.
For small companies, this is unimaginable. “Not a big marketing budget, but still finding customers” — that is the real question. And the answer is easier than many people think: It goes small too. Step by step.
How a good partner starts
Imagine that your website is being redesigned. No conversion for 10,000€. But:
- A clear sentence above that immediately explains what you're there for.
- Two to three ways they can work with you.
- An example that immediately shows what customers get (before-after).
That's all it takes to get started. No fireworks, no 50 posts a week. But clarity. And it is precisely this clarity that ensures that your site no longer remains silent.
Small steps, real impact
A craftsman who used to receive constant inquiries from people who only wanted the cheapest price suddenly has less stress after a small text change: his website now clearly shows what work he is doing and the quality behind it.
A practice that had lists of offers online for years has reduced the whole thing to one set and two areas. The result: fewer inquiries over the phone, appointments are booked more quickly.
A small shop that thought it had to constantly post on social media finally got suitable customers after the website received a visible contact button and a short “How it works” statement.
These examples show that the “full package” is not required. It takes the right little levers — and someone who knows where to apply them.
Why giving up isn't worth it
At some point, many self-employed people say: “No advertising then. I continue to do this via word of mouth.” It sometimes works — but it slows down growth. And it causes frustration when the wrong customers steal time and again.
The truth is: Even with small marketing steps, you can achieve a noticeable change. A clearer website. A comprehensible text. A structure where customers immediately understand: “That's for me. ”
And when there is more budget later on, you can expand bit by bit — ads, SEO, social media. But the basis must be right first.
Conclusion: Online marketing 2025 is small, easy, feasible
Online marketing is no longer just for big companies. Even small companies, local businesses, practices and tradesmen can start today with a small budget — if they take the right steps.
It is not important to book everything right away. The important thing is not to give up. Start small, see what works, and build on that. A good online marketing partner will show you this abbreviation: Order before volume, clarity before costs.
