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Boost your business – how to market with your website

Jan 29, 2025

Running a business in Africa is all about hustle—whether you’re selling handmade crafts at a local market, offering catering services, or launching an online store. But how do you turn that hustle into consistent sales? Your website is your secret weapon.

Let’s break down affordable, practical ways to market your business online and offline, plus tips to make your website shine with high-quality images.

Why your website is your best marketing tool

Your Savvy Site isn’t just a digital brochure—it’s a 24/7 salesperson.

Use it to:

  • Showcase products/services with photos, descriptions, and prices.

  • Collect payments securely (learn how here).

  • Build trust with contact details, customer reviews, and professional branding.

  • Build your social media presence, link your Instagram, X, Facebook, LinkedIn, even Spotify and SoundCloud.

Now, let’s get customers flowing in.

Marketing at a market
Marketing at a market

1. Market in-person (without breaking the bank)

Local markets & street stalls

  • Add your URL to packaging: Stickers, tags, or handwritten notes on products.

  • Share QR codes: Link directly to your website’s product page. Use free tools like QR Code Generator.

Community notice boards

  • Post eye-catching flyers: Include your website URL, social handles, and a clear call-to-action (e.g., “Order online for 10% off!”).

  • Use bright colors and bold text to stand out.

Radio ads (Yes, really!)

  • Negotiate short, affordable slots: Many local stations offer budget-friendly packages.

  • Keep ads simple: “Visit [YourWebsite.savvy.site] to shop handmade baskets delivered to your door!”

Use social media to create awareness
Use social media to create awareness

2. Go digital: online marketing made easy

Reach customers where they spend time—online!

Social media (free & effective)

  • Share your website link daily in posts, bios, and stories.

  • Run mini-campaigns: “Tag 3 friends to win a discount code!” to boost visibility.

  • Use hashtags: #SupportSmallBusiness, #BuyLocal, or niche tags like #AfricanFashion.

SEO (Search Engine Optimization)

  • Use keywords: Include phrases like “best [product] in [your city]” in your website text.

Budget-friendly ads

  • Boost social posts: Spend R50–R100 to target locals (e.g., Facebook/Instagram ads).

  • Google Ads: Start with R10/day for keywords like “buy handmade jewelry Cape Town.”

You don't need a camera, just use your phone!
You don't need a camera, just use your phone!

3. High-quality images: Make your website pop

No fancy camera? No problem!

Take great photos with your phone

  • Use natural light: Shoot outdoors or near a window (avoid harsh midday sun).

  • Keep backgrounds simple: Use a plain cloth, wall, or wooden table.

  • Snap multiple angles: Show products from the front, side, and in use (e.g., a model wearing your dress).

Edit like a pro (For free!)

  • Brighten and crop: Use free apps like Snapseed or Canva.

  • Add filters sparingly: Keep colors true to life.

Find free images online

  • Stock photo sites: Unsplash, Pixabay.

  • Search filters: On Google Images, click Tools > Usage Rights > Labeled for reuse.

Clean your phone camera lens

Our phones get dirty and greasy. So, clean your lens before taking pictures for the best images.

Ready to grow?

Your Savvy Site is more than a website—it’s your business’s home online. Combine these marketing tips with stunning visuals and easy payment tools to turn visitors into loyal customers.

P.S. Savvy Sites makes it easy to add SEO-friendly text, upload images, and connect payment gateways. Start your free trial today!