Bredin Report: How SMBs Promote Themselves Offline

Bredin’s most recent research reveals that SMBs of all sizes rate word-of-mouth marketing as the most effective offline promotional tactic (see last week’s survey to learn about social media promotion preferences). After the top pick, tactics vary by company size.

Very small businesses (VSBs, with less than 20 employees) rank phone calls second, followed closely by flyers and posters. Small businesses (SBs, with 20-99 employees) rate PR second, just ahead of phone calls. Midsized businesses (MBs, with 100-500 employees) also place PR second, but cite flyers and posters third.

Offline Media Effectiveness for SMB Promotion

Offline Media Effectiveness for SMB Promotion

Many SMBs plan to increase their offline promotional spending this year. Where they’ll invest depends on company size. VSBs and SBs are most likely to increase spending on word of mouth; MBs, PR and flyers/posters.

2024 SMB Offline Media Spending Plans

Percent increasing 2024 spending significantly or somewhat versus 2023

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About Bredin

Bredin was founded in 1991 by America's foremost small business expert, author and syndicated columnist Alice Bredin. From its beginning, Bredin was designed to be a breed apart: 50% research consultancy, 50% creative agency, 100% focused on SMB. Based in Somerville, Mass., Bredin helps Fortune 500 companies understand, reach and retain SMB customers through timely, targeted research and award-winning marketing programs.