Overcoming the Invisible Business Struggle: How to Get Found by Local Customers

Let’s be real—running a small business sometimes feels like you are pulling your hair out - trying everything under the sun to get customers.. You’re out there, working your tail off, but instead of hearing, “Wow, I love your business!” you get… “Oh I didn’t even know you were here” Ugh - Seriously?  It’s frustrating. But here’s the thing: it’s not because your business isn’t awesome. Sometimes, you’re just a little too good at playing hide-and-seek with your customers.

So how do you go from invisible to impossible to ignore? At Zenspired Strategies (where we turn marketing confusion into calm, productive strategies), we’ve helped businesses just like yours stop hiding and start shining. Here’s what we’ve seen actually work—no expensive ads, no social media dances required. Just smart, local-focused strategies.

🎯 1. Google Business Profile: Your Small Business GPS

Let’s imagine your business is a pot of gold (because it is). What’s the point of having treasure if no one knows where to find it? Google Business Profile is the map that shows people exactly how to get to your front door, and trust me, everyone is using it.  While there has been talk of other modes coming in - Google is STILL the best way to get seen.  If I asked you to find a coffee shop in Kansas City  - what would you do?  You Google it.

Here’s why it’s a game-changer: When someone searches “best coffee shop near me,” Google doesn’t guess. It looks for businesses with updated profiles, lots of reviews, and accurate information. If your profile is incomplete or outdated, guess what? No pot of gold for them—no customers for you.  What I see often - people do have a Google Business Profile - but they have not updated it in years - if ever!  This is not a set it and forget it - you have to put in a little effort.

How to Zenspirationally Optimize Your Profile:

• Claim it: If you haven’t already, do it now. Like, stop reading this and go claim it. We’ll wait.

• Fill in every detail: Hours, address, website, menu, photos—don’t leave anything blank.

• Get reviews: Ask happy customers to leave honest reviews. Don’t be shy; people love to help!  Reviews are a big part of what Google shows to searchers.  

• Post updates: Specials, events, or new products—keep your profile fresh and active. Just like with any marketing you do - keep your profile up to date with the latest events, updates and information.

🎉 2. Get Involved in Local Events (Because People Love Free Stuff)

Let’s face it—people will show up for just about anything if it’s free. (Looking at you, Augusta.) But instead of just attending events, make sure your business is part of the action. Here’s how:

🛍️ Host a Pop-Up Shop:

Set up a booth at community festivals, farmers’ markets, sporting events, you name it. You don’t have to go over the top—just make it fun and inviting.  Just having a brick and mortar location doesn’t mean people will know you are there.  Meet people where they are.  Because of how Augusta is laid out - the south side is businesses - the north side is residential- so not everyone comes downtown.   Bring samples, swag, or a fun game that ties into your business. (Pro tip: a giant spinning prize wheel never fails.)

🎓 Offer Free Workshops or Training:

Are you a coffee shop? Teach people how to make the perfect latte at home. Own a landscaping business? Offer a free class on planting fall perennials. Not only does this position you as an expert, but it also builds trust and goodwill. And guess what? People remember the businesses that help them.

🌐 3. Create a Simple Website with Local SEO Focus

I know what you’re thinking: Do I really need a website if I have a Facebook page? The answer is a big, resounding YES. Here’s why: Facebook is like renting a house—you’re at the mercy of their rules, they can decide to kick you out for no reason (TikTok)  and if they change the algorithm, your visibility could vanish overnight. A website is like owning your house—it’s yours, and no one can take it away. 

But a website alone isn’t enough. It needs to be optimized for local searches. Here’s how to do that:

• Use local keywords: Instead of “marketing coach,” try “marketing coach in Augusta, KS.”

• Add your location everywhere: In your headers, page titles, and even image descriptions.

• Make it mobile-friendly: Most local searches happen on smartphones. If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, you’re losing customers.

• Include a map: Make it easy for people to find you. Embed a Google Map on your Contact page.

🚀 Bonus Tip: Partner with Other Local Businesses

Don’t go it alone—collaborate! Team up with complementary businesses to cross-promote each other. For example, if you’re a yoga studio, partner with a local health food store to offer joint discounts. You’ll tap into each other’s customer base and get double the exposure.  And by the way - Locable has a great software system that does this for you!  Ask me how!

🏁 Final Thoughts

Overcoming the “invisible business” struggle isn’t about flashy ads or viral videos. It’s about being present in your community, showing up where your customers are, and making it easy for them to find you.  Too many small businesses get overwhelmed at the possibility to keep up on every new trend - or spend countless hours on social media.  But if that was really working for you - you probably wouldn’t be reading this blog.   At Zenspired Strategies, we believe that small businesses don’t need big budgets to succeed—they just need smart, intentional strategies.

So if you’re tired of playing hide-and-seek with your customers, let’s chat. We’ll help you go from “invisible” to “unmissable”

Need help getting found? Contact Zenspired Strategies today and let’s get you back on the map. Literally.