9 Simple Strategies to Build Your Business and Increase Your Reach

The Dubai business scene is full of opportunities, but standing out takes smart strategies. One of the best ways to grow is through multichannel marketing—engaging customers across different platforms where they already spend time. Here are nine simple strategies to help you expand your audience and get more clients.

1. Be Present on Multiple Platforms

Your customers aren’t just on one channel. They browse social media, search on Google, and visit websites. To maximize your reach:

• Use Instagram and LinkedIn to build credibility and showcase your work.
• Create a Google My Business profile to attract local searches.
• Run email marketing campaigns to nurture leads.

Example: A personal trainer can use Instagram to post daily workout tips, engage with followers through live Q&A sessions, and showcase client transformations. 

They can also use WhatsApp to manage class bookings, send reminders, and offer personalized fitness advice. 

Meanwhile, a YouTube channel can provide in-depth tutorials on proper exercise techniques and nutrition guidance, helping to build authority and trust with potential clients.

2. Optimize for Local Search (SEO)

People often search for services nearby. Make sure your business appears in those searches by:

• Using keywords like “best freelance photographer near me” on your website.
• Listing your business on Google Maps and directories.
• Encouraging clients to leave Google reviews to boost your credibility.

Example: A local photographer looking to attract more clients can optimize their website with high-quality portfolio images with descriptions including the name of the space or local landmark in the photograph. 

They can publish SEO-friendly blog posts detailing past projects, and strategic keyword placement. By also claiming a Google My Business listing, they can provide their contact details, business hours, and customer reviews, making it easier for clients to find and trust them.

3. Leverage WhatsApp for Direct Engagement

WhatsApp is a powerful tool for business communication. Use it to:

• Provide quick customer support.
• Send promotional updates via broadcast lists.
• Share product catalogs and accept orders.

Example: A freelance designer can use WhatsApp to build relationships with clients by sharing real-time project updates, collecting feedback through voice messages or quick text replies, and even sending design mockups for immediate input. 

By using WhatsApp groups, they can also create exclusive communities for clients to share tips, trends, and resources, fostering engagement and loyalty.

4. Run Targeted Social Media Ads

Instead of posting randomly, invest in highly targeted ads on platforms like:

• Facebook & Instagram: Reach specific demographics based on interests.
• LinkedIn Ads: Target professionals looking for your expertise.
• Google Ads: Appear at the top when potential clients search for services like yours.

Example: A digital marketer can create highly segmented Facebook ad campaigns tailored to different client profiles. For instance, they can target startup founders with lead-generation ads that offer a free marketing consultation, while simultaneously running Instagram ads showcasing case studies and testimonials to build credibility. 

By monitoring performance analytics, they can refine their approach for maximum return on investment.

5. Offer Value Through Content Marketing

People trust businesses that provide useful content. Create:

• Blog posts answering common client questions.
• Video tutorials or behind-the-scenes footage of your work.
• Case studies showcasing successful projects.

Example: A social media consultant can publish LinkedIn articles about trending digital marketing strategies and practical steps businesses can take to improve their online presence. 

They can also create a YouTube series covering common mistakes businesses make on social media, providing actionable solutions and linking viewers back to their consulting services for deeper insights.

6. Use Influencer and Partner Marketing

Collaborating with influencers or complementary businesses can introduce your brand to new audiences.

• Partner with micro-influencers who align with your brand.
• Collaborate with businesses offering complementary services.

Example: A freelance photographer could partner with event planners to offer bundled services for corporate clients. By photographing high-profile corporate events and sharing the images on social media (tagging the event planners), both businesses benefit from increased exposure. 

Additionally, they could offer a referral discount to clients who use both services, incentivizing new bookings for each business.

7. Use Email Marketing for Lead Nurturing

Not every client will buy immediately. Keep them engaged with email marketing:

• Offer a free resource (like an ebook or checklist) in exchange for email sign-ups.
• Send newsletters with updates, offers, and valuable insights.
• Automate follow-ups for abandoned carts or inquiries.

Example: A business consultant can set up an automated email sequence that starts with a free downloadable guide on “5 Strategies to Scale Your Business.” After downloading, the recipient receives follow-up emails that provide additional insights, success stories from past clients, and an invitation for a free strategy call, gradually warming them up toward making a purchase.

8. Engage in Offline and Networking Events

Expanding your reach isn’t just about online presence. Strengthen connections by:

• Attending industry meetups, expos, and networking events.
• Speaking at local business seminars.
• Hosting workshops or small events to showcase your expertise.

Example: A business coach looking to attract high-value clients can attend entrepreneur networking events to share insights and establish relationships. 

By offering free mini-workshops at these events, they provide immediate value, demonstrating expertise and fostering trust, which can lead to one-on-one coaching clients or speaking opportunities at larger industry conferences.

9. Analyze and Adjust Your Strategy

Not every marketing effort will yield the same results. Track what works by:

• Analyzing engagement metrics on social media and website traffic.
• Reviewing email open rates and conversions.
• Testing different content formats to see what resonates with your audience.

Example: An online clothing store can use data analytics tools to monitor which products get the most views and clicks. If they notice a particular dress style performing well on Instagram but generating low conversions on the website, they can test different ad formats, tweak product descriptions, or adjust pricing to see what improves sales. 

By continually refining their approach, they maximize growth opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Growing a business requires showing up in the right places, creating valuable content, and building meaningful connections. By using multiple platforms and refining your approach based on real data, you can expand your reach and attract more clients.