How to Make Your Small Business Stand Out & Be Unforgettable

How To Be Unforgettable (Without Spending a Fortune)

Running a small business is challenging, especially when competing against bigger brands with larger budgets. But if you’re wondering how to make your small business stand out, you’re in the right place. This guide will show you how to differentiate yourself, attract the right customers, and grow your brand—without breaking the bank.

 

1️⃣ How to Make Your Small Business Stand Out with a Unique Selling Point

Every successful business has something unique that sets it apart. Your challenge is to identify yours and make it known.

• Are you the friendliest plumber in town, explaining things simply and clearly?
• Do you use only sustainable, locally sourced materials in your carpentry work?
• Does your bakery create quirky, themed cupcakes shaped like famous landmarks?

Your unique angle should be everywhere—on your website, social media, business cards, and how you introduce yourself. This is what makes people remember you. More importantly, it sets you apart from competitors and ensures you create a lasting impression.

💡 Example: A window cleaner in Manchester branded himself as “The Singing Window Cleaner”, gaining viral attention online. His booking calendar filled up—with zero marketing spend.

 

2️⃣ Tell Your Small Business Story to Build Connection

People don’t just buy what you do—they buy why you do it.

Your personal story—why you started, what you care about, and what makes you different—helps you connect with potential customers. Share it on your website, social media, and even your email signature.

💡 Example: A small coffee van owner shares how they left a high-stress city job to bring “proper coffee” to small villages. Customers love the story and become loyal supporters.

 

3️⃣ Create a Signature Customer Experience

Even on a budget, you can craft an experience customers talk about.

• Add a personal touch – A handwritten thank-you note, a follow-up message, or remembering customer preferences creates a lasting impression.
• Surprise and delight – A hairdresser in Brighton offers free mini styling tutorials for first-time clients, increasing repeat bookings.
• Make things easy – Offer flexible appointment times, quick responses, and clear pricing (because no one likes “contact us for a quote” when they need a ballpark figure).

 

4️⃣ How Social Media Can Help Your Small Business Stand Out

You don’t need a big marketing team—just consistency and personality. For example, behind-the-scenes content helps customers connect with your brand. Additionally, sharing customer stories builds trust. And if humour fits your brand, it can be an engaging way to attract new followers.

• Show behind-the-scenes content – Showcase your work process, daily business life, and customer transformations.
• Feature customer stories – Highlight happy clients and tag them (people love sharing when they’re in the spotlight).
• Use humour – A Bristol-based accountant shares “bad tax jokes” on Twitter (X), keeping followers engaged and attracting clients who appreciate a lighter approach.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re stuck, think about what you’d actually stop scrolling for—and create more of that!

 

5️⃣ Maximise Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Customers trust recommendations over ads, so therefore, encourage happy customers to spread the word. For instance, a referral programme can help. Additionally, social media shares can significantly boost visibility.

• Referral Offers – A tradesperson offers a coffee shop gift card for every successful referral.
• Instagram-Friendly Branding – A London florist wraps bouquets in quirky packaging, prompting customers to share them online.
• Strategic Partnerships – A dog groomer partners with a pet shop for cross-promotions—customers get discounts when using both services.

 

6️⃣ Find and Own a Quirky Differentiator

Uniqueness doesn’t mean reinventing the wheel—you just need something that sets you apart.

• A removal company that guarantees to move you “without breaking a single mug”.
• A café that only plays 80s music and offers free coffee for correctly guessing the song.
• A handyman who always wears a bow tie for a “polished” service.

💡 Remember: You only need to be the cheapest if you’re the worst.

 

Final Thoughts: How to Make Your Small Business Stand Out Without Spending a Fortune

Small businesses succeed when they are remarkable—by giving people something to talk about. Whether it’s a unique angle, personal service, or a touch of humour, the more you lean into what makes you different, the more you’ll stand out.

 

What’s your differentiator? What makes your business unforgettable?

At The Business Growth Academy & Business BOOST Academy, we help businesses unlock growth by creating a brand that stands out—without needing a huge budget.

📩 Need help refining your unique selling point? Get in touch today!

 

Stuart Mason
The Power Within Training,
The Motivational Intelligence Company
stuart@tpwtd.com