Question 1

Is TikTok worth it for a local business?

Accepted Answer

It can be if you can show your work, personality or process in short videos and do so regularly. Reach can go beyond your area, so link it back to your website and Google profile to turn views into local customers. It works best alongside, not instead of, being findable on Google.

Question 2

Which social media platform is best for a small business?

Accepted Answer

The one your customers use and that suits what you sell. Visual businesses such as restaurants, salons and retail often do well on Instagram and TikTok; local services often lean on Facebook and Google posts. Doing one or two platforms well beats doing five badly.

Question 3

How often should a small business post on social media?

Accepted Answer

Consistency matters more than volume. A steady rhythm you can keep up, such as a few posts a week on your main platform, works better than bursts followed by silence. Our Growth plan includes posting for you every month. Quality and accuracy count for more than frequency.

Question 4

Should I use a Facebook business page or my personal profile?

Accepted Answer

Use a business page. It is free, keeps work separate from personal life, lets you add team members without sharing logins, gives you insights and is required for running ads. Personal profiles are not meant for commercial use. Meta's own rules point businesses to Pages.

Question 5

How do I connect my Instagram business account to Facebook?

Accepted Answer

Switch Instagram to a professional account, then link it to your Facebook Page through Meta's account settings or Meta Business Suite. Once linked you can manage messages, posts and ads in one place. Use an account the business controls. That way access stays with the business.

Question 6

Is email marketing still worth it for small businesses?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when you email people who asked to hear from you. You own the list, unlike social followers, and a short useful email such as a seasonal reminder or offer can bring repeat business. Follow consent and unsubscribe rules. Keep emails short and send only when you have something useful.

Question 7

Is SMS marketing legal in the US and Canada?

Accepted Answer

It is legal with the right consent and opt-out handling. The US (TCPA) and Canada (CASL) have strict rules, and carriers have their own registration requirements for business texting. Get clear consent, identify yourself and honor STOP requests. This is general information, not legal advice.

Question 8

Is it legal to send marketing emails to customers?

Accepted Answer

Generally yes, but rules differ. The US CAN-SPAM Act requires honest headers, a physical address and a working unsubscribe. Canada's CASL usually requires consent before you send. Keep records of how people joined your list. This is general information, not legal advice.

Question 9

What should a local business post on social media?

Accepted Answer

Real work and real people: jobs done, behind the scenes, team, customer stories (with permission), seasonal tips, answers to common questions and clear offers. Use your own photos and video. Each post should make it easy to call, book or visit.

Question 10

Is a Facebook business page free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Creating and running a Facebook Page costs nothing. You only pay if you choose to boost posts or run ads. Meta's business tools, such as Business Suite, are also free to use. Set up the Page under an account the business controls and add a second admin.

Question 11

How do I create a Facebook page for my business?

Accepted Answer

From your personal Facebook account, create a Page, choose your category, add your business name, logo, cover photo, hours, phone, website and address or service area. Then add another admin you trust so you are never locked out. Link the Page to your website and keep details matching your Google profile.

Question 12

How can I do email marketing for free?

Accepted Answer

Several email platforms offer free plans for small lists. Collect emails with consent, write a short useful message, include your address and an unsubscribe link, and send on a schedule you can keep. Upgrade only when your list outgrows the free tier.

Question 13

What should I put in a monthly email to customers?

Accepted Answer

One useful thing: a seasonal reminder, a tip, a new service, an offer or a short story from your business. Keep it short with one clear action, such as book, call or visit. Personal and helpful beats long and salesy.

Social media, email and texting: 13 questions