When the economy tightens, most businesses go into defense mode—cutting costs and playing it safe. But pulling back on marketing entirely can stall long-term growth. In moments like these, staying consistent and making bold, creative moves can be your biggest advantage. If your competitors are going quiet, it’s your chance to get loud—strategically.

Under-the-radar marketing isn’t about gimmicks or throwing money at every trend. It’s about smart, lean moves that keep you visible, trusted, and ready for the upswing. Whether it’s launching a hyper-local campaign, leaning into digital tools, or building loyalty through value-driven communication—these are the strategies that keep your pipeline flowing.

In this blog, we’re breaking down practical ways to stay active in the market—even when times are tough. These are the brand-building moves your competitors aren’t making—and they’re exactly how you stay top-of-mind when your customers are ready to take action.

Build Authority Through Bite-Sized Video Content

Short-form video is a powerful and underused way to stay top-of-mind.

• Quick Tips & How-To Shorts: Share one-minute videos showing a helpful service tip, tool, or process.
• Day-in-the-Life Clips: Give your audience a behind-the-scenes look at your team or workflow.
• Before-and-After Reels: Show transformations to visually communicate value.
• Use YouTube Shorts & Instagram Reels: Take advantage of platforms pushing video content organically.
• Batch and Schedule: Film multiple videos in one go and drip them out weekly.
• Include CTAs: Always point viewers to your site, booking page, or next step.

Leverage User-Generated Content

Encourage your customers to create content that promotes your brand.

Customer Testimonials

Request reviews or stories about their positive experiences.

Photo Contests

Invite users to share photos of your service in action.

Feature User Content

Highlight customer-created content on your social platforms.

Offer Small Incentives

Give discounts or perks for submitting content or leaving reviews.

Showcase Stories in Ads

Repurpose user-generated content in your paid campaigns to boost credibility.

Ensure your business is easily found by local customers searching online.

Google Business Profile

Keep your profile updated with accurate information and engaging photos.

Local Keywords

Incorporate region-specific terms into your website content.

Community Engagement

Participate in local events or sponsor community initiatives to boost visibility.

Collect Local Reviews

Ask satisfied local clients to leave reviews mentioning your location.

Create Local Landing Pages

Build service pages tailored to specific cities in your area.

Offer Flexible Payment Options

Adapt to your customers’ financial situations by providing alternative payment methods.

• Installment Plans: Allow customers to pay over time, making your services more accessible.
• Membership Programs: Create subscription models that offer ongoing value and convenience.
• Bundle Packages: Offer discounted service bundles that provide more value upfront.
• Loyalty Rewards: Give returning customers points or perks for consistent engagement.
• Seasonal Discounts with Flexible Terms: Run time-limited promotions with financing options.

Offer Micro-Experiences That Build Loyalty

In tough times, small, meaningful gestures can go a long way. While competitors cut back, stand out by creating memorable, low-cost experiences that deepen customer loyalty.

Add Unexpected Value

Send a thank-you note or a small bonus with a service to show appreciation.

Host Quick How-To Sessions

Offer seasonal tips or brief workshops to position your brand as helpful and trusted.

Start a Loyalty Club

Offer early access, occasional perks, or exclusive discounts for repeat customers.

Highlight Your Customers

Share their stories or project photos on social media to build connections.

Bottom Line

Tough times don’t mean you should disappear—they mean it’s time to show up differently. By doubling down on creativity, customer connection, and underutilized strategies, you keep your business relevant and trustworthy.

Every brand goes through slow seasons—but those who keep marketing consistently, even in smaller, more innovative ways, build long-term loyalty and stronger positioning for when the economy rebounds. 

Try just one of these ideas consistently, and you’ll stay ahead.