Slow season? Use these 5 clever, cost-free marketing when business is quiet moves to stay visible, build momentum, and prep for your next wave of customers.
Business a bit too quiet? Maybe it’s school holidays, the off-season, or just one of those eerie lulls where tumbleweeds roll through your inbox. The phones go silent, online orders drop off, and walk-ins… well, don’t walk in.
It’s tempting to freak out or freeze up—but don’t!
Marketing when business is quiet can be one of your secret weapons. Why? Because it gives you space to strengthen your brand, get visible, and plant seeds that’ll grow when the buzz returns.
The best part? These five moves don’t cost a cent—and they can set you up for a powerful bounce-back. Let’s dive in.
1. Refresh the First Place People See You: Google
When someone types your business into Google, what pops up? If your Google Business Profile is outdated or neglected, it might be saying, “Hey, we’ve gone into hibernation.”
Why it matters:
People trust businesses that look alive and kicking. Old photos, wrong hours, and crickets in the review section? Not a good look.
Quick wins you can do today:
- Update your opening hours
- Add a few fresh pics (no need for pro shots—your phone is perfect)
- Respond to a couple of recent reviews with a simple “Thanks so much!”
- Post a quick update like you would on Facebook or Insta
Pro Tip: Every time you update your profile, it sends a little signal to Google saying, “Yep, we’re active.” That helps with showing up more in local searches.
2. Turn FAQs Into Easy, Searchable Content
Got questions customers always ask? Turn them into bite-sized content gold.
Why it works:
If people ask in real life, they’re probably searching online too. By answering FAQs on social or your website, you’re serving your audience and boosting your visibility.
Try this simple content plan:
- Jot down the top 5 questions you get all the time
- Answer each one in a short blog post or a snappy social caption (200 words is plenty!)
- Add your personal spin—people want your voice, not just generic fluff
Examples:
- “Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?”
- “What’s the difference between your [X] and [Y] service?”
- “How do I take care of this at home?”
Bonus: You’ll save time answering the same thing over and over. Efficiency win!
Need help writing these? Check out our article on how to create engaging social media content.
3. Email Your Past Customers (Yes, Really!)
No need for fancy tech or jazzy graphics. A heartfelt email from your Gmail can go a long way.
Why it matters:
People forget you exist (harsh but true). A friendly nudge can bring them back, especially if they already love what you do.
Keep it simple:
Hi [Name],
Just wanted to say hey and let you know we’ve got some exciting new [products/services] this month. Would love to see you soon!
Hope you’re well,
— [Your Name]
No pressure. No pitch. Just be human and helpful.
Bonus resource: Check out our free resources for small business email ideas if you’re new to email marketing.
4. Fix That One Thing That’s Been Driving You Nuts
You know the one. The blurry profile pic. That “About” page from 2018. The broken link in your bio.
Why it’s worth it:
Tiny tweaks make a big difference in how trustworthy and pro your biz looks online.
Here’s your micro to-do list:
- Swap out that old Facebook cover image
- Update your contact info on all platforms
- Rewrite your Instagram bio with a clear CTA
- Refresh your pinned post with something current
Need help? Our website review checklist can help you spot the sneaky stuff dragging down your digital presence.
5. Check Your Reviews (Yes, Even the Awkward Ones)
Reviews = digital word-of-mouth. And when business is quiet, it’s the perfect time to tune in.
Why you should care:
- Glowing reviews? Turn them into social proof.
- Not-so-great ones? Learn, grow, and show you care with a reply.
Your mini-review plan:
- Screenshot 2–3 great reviews and post them with a grateful shoutout
- Reply to older reviews you missed (a late “thank you” is still appreciated!)
- Look for patterns—what are people loving or suggesting?
Pro Tip: Use a tool like Birdeye or GatherUp to track and manage reviews in one place if you get a lot of them.
Final Thought
Marketing when business is quiet isn’t about scrambling for a quick fix—it’s about setting yourself up to soar. Even one tiny move this week can create ripple effects for months.
So pick one idea from this list. Just one.
✨ Tidy up your Google profile.
✨ Post an FAQ.
✨ Send a friendly email.
Whatever you choose, just do something.
Because while quiet times don’t last, the momentum you build now absolutely does.
Want help turning quiet time into growth time?
Book a Marketing Ecosystem Workshop with our team and get tailored ideas for your biz.