Getting the digital visibility of a light entrepreneur right

Digital visibility is no longer just a plus. It's a prerequisite if you want to reach new customers and grow your business as a light entrepreneur. In this article, we'll take you through how to get your visibility right with easy first steps. You'll get tips on how to make the most of your website and social media channels, and learn ways to get your expertise in front of the right people.

Why digital visibility is important for light entrepreneurs

Customers are increasingly looking for service providers online. If you can't be found there, it's easy to be invisible, even if you excel at your job. Good visibility gives you confidence, makes you discoverable and can even generate business without the need for a separate sales effort.

For light entrepreneurs, digital visibility is particularly important, as many do not have a core business or an established customer base. Online, you can reach exactly your target group and clearly differentiate yourself from your competitors.

Getting to grips with websites and social media in a practical way

The website acts as your digital business card. They can be simple: an introduction about you and your services, contact details and the possibility to leave a message. Free or lightweight building tools include WordPress, Wix and Webnode. If coding or visual design is not your speciality, you can easily outsource your website on a low budget. More on this in the next section.

Social media channels such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok are free tools for building your customer base. The key is to choose one or two channels where your target audience is likely to spend time, and be regularly present on them.

Where customers look for services and how to reach them

In addition to websites and the web, you should also use online platforms where customers look for people to work on projects. One such service is Nerot.fi - a Finnish call for tenders service, looking for creatives for websites, logo design, marketing and many other creative services.

You can create a free profile on the service and see quotes directly from interested customers. This is a particularly useful way to gain visibility when your own marketing is not yet well underway.

Another effective and often underused tool is to create a Google Business Profile. This allows your name and contact details to be displayed when someone searches for your services on Google or Google Maps. You can add photos, opening hours, service descriptions and reviews. The profile is free of charge and significantly improves local findability.

Five steps to get started today

1. Write a short introduction about yourself and your skills. You can use it on your website, social media channels and request for proposal services.
   
2. Choose one social media channel and start posting regularly. For example, photos of your work, customer feedback or everyday observations about your work.
   
3. Create a simple website. Start on one page with a description of your services and up-to-date contact details.
   
4. Take advantage of free visibility channels such as Google Profile and Nerot.fi. They improve your discoverability in search results and help you reach customers who are actively looking for services.
   
5. Set yourself a goal for the week. For example, one publication, one new contact, or one development for visibility.